I try to make sure that on most days my family gets well balanced, healthy meals. That generally means a variety of the freshest foods I can buy. I try to steer clear of canned and/or overly processed foods.
I do, however, keep a pretty well stocked pantry with what I consider essentials – pastas, beans, tomatoes, grains, etc. I keep these for daily use as well as for “emergency” situations like Katrina.
Well, one of my goals for the next few weeks is to use up some of the cans and bags that have been in my pantry for a while so that I can re-stock with fresher goods. In addition to using up this stuff before it expires, I’ll be saving dough on the grocery bill by shopping my own kitchen.
Tonight’s dinner? Nothing fancy, but it will be tasty and healthy. Black beans over couscous, canned corn, and a spinach salad. Yum!
Do you keep a well stocked pantry? What are your essentials? How often do you do a clean sweep?
We did a detox program which basically eliminated all sodium so ever since I don’t get as much canned goods as I used to (was surprised to find out how much of a difference cutting sodium out made). But I’m working on getting a better stash of freezer items, couponing has made a big difference in how I shop though I haven’t been as focused lately as I’d like.
I’m single, no kids, so nope, my pantry is a mess. I couldn’t live two weeks with a grocery shortage, a sister would starve. I don’t eat out a lot, but I don’t cook from scratch a lot either. I basically heat up a bunch of stuff because cooking for one person SUCKS!
Good post!
@ Yolanda – I would love to be able to use coupons, but honestly it doesn’t seem like there are ever coupons for the products I buy. Maybe I’ll give it another go ’round soon.
@ T – I feel you. When I was single I bought the same groceries every week – 5 yogurts, 5 pieces of fruit, juice, a pack of chicken wings and a loaf of bread! Hmmm, my list hasn’t actually changed that much.
I am gonna make it my bizniz to be more like you and TM! lol..I want a huzband…and im really starting to think that the old saying is true: The way to a mans heart is through his stomach…i dont dont cook…maybe thats why i dont have a man! lol…thx for stopping by!!
Come to think of it, my pantry is well-stocked. However, my essentials are alarge can of green beans, chicken broth, chicken noodle soup, and a chef boyardee for Aidan. Oh, and mushrooms. Aidan lurrves mushrooms.
My staples are tomato soup, tuna, canned tomatoes, fruit for the hubby, and beans (bagged mostly, but some cans). We actually like oodles of noodles and (I like) kraft mac n cheese. If we couldn’t get out, I could make some magic happen in our pantry.