Shopping right now is challenging, and you’re likely “making do” with whatever you can find versus buying your favorite brands or searching for unique ingredients to add to a new recipe you’re eager to make.

If you’re ordering groceries online or going to the store, you want to be sure you’re buying things that are versatile and have a long shelf life – sorry avocados – unfortunately, this doesn’t include you. It’s okay if you’ve stocked up on some pre-packaged dishes, but try and balance it out by adding these staples too so your grocery order and recipe creation can go further.

6 VERSATILE FOODS YOU NEED TO BUY THIS MONTH

1. BEANS

Packed with plant-based protein, beans don’t look out of place in any dish. Canned is a great pantry staple, but if you have dried, play around with soaking and sprouting techniques – the process can be quite calming and therapeutic!

Beans can replace meat in any dish or be added to stews and casseroles for a warming texture boost. Beans can also be blended to replace flour in dessert recipes like brownies and cake. When it comes to type – you can’t go wrong – but black beans and chickpeas tend to be easier to cook with than kidney beans, which can take longer to cook.

Do you have a can hiding at the back of your pantry? Try your hand at this super simple black bean soup.

2. SEEDS

While everyone else is bypassing seeds for more “ready to go” meals, don’t forget how versatile they can be and why it’s important to have some on hand. Food presentation may not be a priority right now but adding some seeds as the finishing touches to a dish can bring it from blah to fab.

Not to mention, seeds are packed with vitamin B, zinc, copper, and magnesium as well as fiber. If breakfast time is causing some challenges –
Especially if you’re trying to feed the family with something nutritious and delicious – try this seed-filled cereal recipe.

Remember, you can double or triple the recipe and have it on hand to get you through your midweek mornings.

3. NUTS

Like seeds, nuts may be bypassed in search of easier meal options right now, but there really are so many different ways to use them. If you’re gluten-free, it’s almost essential to keep them on hand since they can be blended into almond flour in a pinch.

If you have a high-powered blender, you can also make your own almond milk without the preservatives and stabilizers most store-bought brands contain. Finally, almonds are often an essential ingredient in healthy treat recipes, which are always a good idea. Try this delicious “almond joy” recipe today. It makes 12, so everyone gets a sweet treat, with leftovers

4. BROCCOLI

Broccoli – in our opinion – is one of the most consistent of the cruciferous vegetable family. Broccoli is the perfect side accompaniment to any dish, adding both a pop of color and a host of vitamins and minerals. Fresh broccoli lasts quite a while in the refrigerator, and don’t forget about the stalks, too!

They can be easily blended and added to a smoothie or juice for an extra nutrient boost. Frozen broccoli is also a great option to have on hand when fresh produce options are low. You can add it to a stir-fry straight from the bag, instantly adding density and color to your dish. If you’re grocery shopping this week, be sure to add broccoli (frozen or fresh!) and add this healthy broccoli soup to your meal prep schedule.

5. APPLES

Apples last a long time in your refrigerator, so they’re the perfect staple to stock up on, especially when you’re not sure what your produce options will be over the next few weeks. Apples can be added to slow cooker meat dishes, especially pork, and baked into pies and crumbles.

They’re naturally sweet in taste and can go a long way to satisfy a sugar craving. Plus, they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They also add texture and color to salads and do a great job cutting the bitterness of other vegetables when added to a soup. If you have some extra apples on hand, try this deliciously warming oatmeal recipe.

6. BANANAS

Other grocery recommendation lists lean away from bananas because they tend to ripen too quickly. What many people forget is that bananas freeze well. It’s true, while they can only last a few days in your kitchen fruit basket and just a few more in the refrigerator, they can last months in the freezer along with your frozen bone broth and bagged broccoli.

Bananas add natural sweetness to any dish and help keep sugar cravings at bay, especially during stressful events when you’re more likely to reach for candy or chocolate to soothe your anxiety. Frozen bananas can also be easily transformed into a comforting frozen dessert, with just a dash of sea salt and maple syrup added. Don’t be afraid to add bananas to your grocery cart this week. They’re versatile and can last a long time when stored correctly. If you’re feeling inspired, try these gluten-free banana oat cookies.

While you don’t need to panic as you buy food and supplies, it is a good idea to add some extra essentials to your shopping list, especially since you may be trying to reduce the frequency of your shopping trips. These items are not specific to one dish. Instead, they can be used in a number of different dishes, everything from breakfast to dinner and snacks, too.

What foods are staples in your pantry?