Having healthy stuff on hand makes it easy to throw together good, satisfying meals in a pinch.
But what exactly should you be storing in your cupboard?
We talked to seven R.D.s to find out the one healthy,nonperishable pantry itemthey always have in stock.
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Heres what they love.
I use it in spaghetti squash dishes like myprotein punch marinara spaghetti squash.
It also works great as a base for flatbread pizza and in baked eggplant Parmesan.
Plus, its super versatile.
Rebecca Clyde, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.
And theres research suggesting it may play a minor role in regulating blood sugar levels.
I also use cinnamon in a lot of savory recipes.
It adds a unique, aromatic, and worldly flair to everyday foods from chicken to zucchini."
I love adding flavored aged balsamicvinegarsto salads or marinades.
They provide a subtle hint of flavor with minimal calories.
My preferred vinegar is a dark balsamic called black mission fig.
Chelsea Elkin, M.S., R.D., C.D.N.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
If youre a chocolate lover, unsweetened cocoa powder is essential.
Most chocolaty treats have lots of added sugar in them.
Beans are an easy, vegetarian way to add fiber and protein to my meals.
I love to include them in veggie-packed pasta or whole grain-based dishes.
They also taste great thrown on top of a baked potato with sour cream and hummus.
Keri Gans, M.S., R.D., author ofThe Small Change Diet
