How to Stock Your Pantry for Quick and Easy Meals

Be prepared for emergency meals, surprise guests and no-fuss cooking.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Maple Syrups And Pancake Mix
• Olive (not Virgin) Oil And Vinegar
• Wines And Spirits
• Canning Jars
• Plastic Food Containers
• Canning jars
• Plastic food containers

1. Store a variety of oils and vinegars. Olive oil and vinegar are great for marinades, salad dressings, sautés and bread dipping.

2. Keep garlic, onions and potatoes handy. Onions and garlic are used in practically every main-dish recipe, and a potato can be a meal in itself (particularly sautéed with the onions and garlic).

3. Store rice, dried pastas and other grains. They're great for any quick meal.

4. Have canned broths or frozen stocks handy for last-minute hearty soups.

5. Freeze meats and fish and buy frozen or canned vegetables. You'll be ready for any craving.

6. Create a wine and spirits supply. Your surprise guests will be glad you did, and many recipes call for wine or liquors. Plus, it's always nice to sip a glass of wine while you cook.

7. Keep maple syrup and pancake mix in your cupboards for weekend breakfasts. Store canned artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Whipping up a nice antipasto or salad will be easy.

8. Refrigerate a variety of cheeses. They're great for snacking, toppings, salads and perking up a casserole.

9. Think about your favorite meals before you head to the market. Pick up supplies as you remember them. Your reserve pantry may create itself.

10. Buy in bulk. Anything that won't go bad during a two-year period is the perfect bulk buy.