Great Healthy Foods to Have in Your Pantry

Grains are a great staple to have in your pantry. Grains include pasta (regular and whole wheat), brown rice and white rice, oatmeal and popcorn. Grains and vegetables can easily make up the bulk of a meal with protein complementing.

Beans are an inexpensive way to add protein, iron and fiber to a meal. I find canned beans easier to use due to my busy schedule. But if you have time or plan ahead, dried beans and lentils are an inexpensive option. Many grocery stores sell dried bean mixes, so you do not have to buy a large quantity of beans to make your own.

Fish whether fresh, frozen or canned is a nutritious, flavorful way, to add variety to any meal. I like to keep cans or packets of tuna and salmon on hand for quick sandwich spreads.

Fruits and vegetables add a lot of nutritional value and flavor to a meal. Canned and frozen are options in Northeast Wisconsin where our growing season is short. During the growing season take advantage of purchasing fruits and vegetables at local farmer markets held weekly in our area.

Integrate low-calorie, calcium rich dairy products. Wisconsin is known as the dairy state and we are fortunate to have access to high quality milk, cheese and other assorted dairy products. If you’re not a milk fan, think about incorporating milk into puddings and soups.