1 . Canola Oil — This kitchen workhorse is one of the most healthful cooking oils available and excellent for almost any kind of recipe . It contains the least saturated fat and most plant-based omega-3 fat of all common cooking oils , plus its neutral flavor and light texture work well with many different dishes and cooking styles .
2 . Vinegar — The acid in vinegar , including white wine , red wine or balsamic , brightens and balances flavors . It ’ s key to salad vinaigrette , and a splash can add depth and sweetness to soups and sautés .
3 . Peanut Butter — An inexpensive source of protein , peanut butter is a healthful addition to baked goods . It ’ s also a quick base for Asian-style peanut sauce on noodles or meat .
4 . Lower — Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth — Boost flavor by using broth for homemade soup in a flash , whole grains or a braised dish . Storebought broth tends to be higher in salt , so look for the lowersodium varieties .
5 . Honey or Brown Sugar — Sweetener isn ’ t just for baked goods . Use a touch to help caramelize foods and bring out the natural sweetness in vegetables .
6 . Whole Wheat Flour — Essential for baking , flour is also useful for thickening sauces , binding veggie pancakes and more . The white whole wheat variety can be a great way to add extra whole grains but maintain a light texture .
7 . Basic Spices — No
( NAPSI )— Stock your kitchen with these basic building blocks for a wide variety of good-for-you recipes that are quick and easy to create .
“ Keeping healthy foods on hand is one of the easiest ways to get started with a healthy eating plan ,” said registered dietitian Sarah- Jane Bedwell , author of “ Schedule Me Skinny .”
Top 10 Pantry Essentials for Fast , Healthful Cooking
1 . Canola Oil — This kitchen workhorse is one of the most healthful cooking oils available and excellent for almost any kind of recipe . It contains the least saturated fat and most plant-based omega-3 fat of all common cooking oils , plus its neutral flavor and light texture work well with many different dishes and cooking styles .
2 . Vinegar — The acid in vinegar , including white wine , red wine or balsamic , brightens and balances flavors . It ’ s key to salad vinaigrette , and a splash can add depth and sweetness to soups and sautés .
3 . Peanut Butter — An inexpensive source of protein , peanut butter is a healthful addition to baked goods . It ’ s also a quick base for Asian-style peanut sauce on noodles or meat .
4 . Lower — Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth — Boost flavor by using broth for homemade soup in a flash , whole grains or a braised dish . Storebought broth tends to be higher in salt , so look for the lowersodium varieties .
5 . Honey or Brown Sugar — Sweetener isn ’ t just for baked goods . Use a touch to help caramelize foods and bring out the natural sweetness in vegetables .
6 . Whole Wheat Flour — Essential for baking , flour is also useful for thickening sauces , binding veggie pancakes and more . The white whole wheat variety can be a great way to add extra whole grains but maintain a light texture .
7 . Basic Spices — No