Pantry Basics Recipes

What are “Pantry Basics?” They’re the items that are found in most pantries and refrigerators and what we have typically always bought from stores. They include things like:

• salad dressings (this vinaigrette is a reader favorite)
• condiments (mayo, ketchup, etc)
• cereal (I eat this easy granola every day)
• snack foods (these roasted almonds are super popular)
• cooking items (bread crumbs, chicken broth, spice mixes)

 

It’s been a huge revelation to me over the years to realize that most – if not all – of the things I had always bought could be quickly and cheaply made at home. They taste better, and are better for you, too.

I used to think when I heard of someone who made things that were easy to get and not too expensive, “I’ve got lots of things better to do with my time.”

But then I started reading labels. Ugh. High fructose corn syrup. Polysorbate 80 or 60. Hydrogenated vegetable oils. BHT. Gums. Fillers. Artificial color. Preservatives. Things I couldn’t pronounce.

And I’d think, “But it should be tomato, vinegar, sugar, and spices.” or “All I want is chocolate, sugar, and water – why are there 11 ingredients?” The ingredients just seemed so complicated for items I thought should be simple.

Suddenly, I realized that taking a bit of my day to make quality food for myself and my family was actually a very good use of my time. My hope is that armed with these recipes, you will too.