Home-cooked meals don’t have to be made entirely from scratch to be nutritious and delicious. There are a handful of timesaving and healthful staples to help you prepare meals with fewer steps and less cleanup. When selecting convenience products, opt for those that contain no or minimal amounts of added salt or sugar whenever possible. Check out this round-up of kitchen essentials that you can rely on to create fresh, fast and flavorful meals at home.
1.Jarred Pasta Sauce
From spaghetti, lasagna and pizza to meatballs and chicken Parmesan, jarred pasta sauce can elevate a variety of dishes in minutes. Keep a few flavors on hand for whenever the mood for Italian night strikes.
2. Fresh-Cut Produce and Packaged Greens
When you’re short on time, skip washing, slicing, dicing or cutting fresh produce and greens by opting for recipe-ready fresh-cut varieties and packaged salad mixes, spinach or kale. The usage possibilities are endless! Frozen fruits and veggies offer a similar convenience factor, too.
3. Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a timesaving option that’s sure to become a fast family favorite. With no cooking required, you can easily enjoy rotisserie chicken on its own, with a side of rice and veggies, atop a salad, or in soup, tacos or dips. Make a mouthwatering homemade meal using this ingredient shortcut with our Chopper Chicken.
4. Canned Beans
Beans and legumes boost the nutrient content and heartiness of any dish. Packed with fiber and plant-based protein, beans are an excellent substitute for meat in vegetarian meals. They pair nicely with lean beef, chicken and fish, too. Use beans as the base in your family’s favorite recipes or serve them as a side dish to complement any meal.
5. Grains
Naturally gluten-free, brown rice and quinoa are affordable, versatile and can be enjoyed any time of day. They’re packed with fiber and plant-based protein and cook up quickly, making them perfect for busy schedules. Look for microwaveable options or pre-portioned pouches that feature blends of wholesome grains to save even more time.
