As the warm weather approaches and the abundance of fresh summer produce starts to arrive, it's the perfect time to take a close look at your kitchen pantry. Having the right foundational ingredients on hand makes it easy to whip up healthy, delicious meals and snacks all season long.
The Goal of Pantry Staples
Why are pantry staples so important in the summer months? For starters, having these versatile ingredients at the ready allows you to stay flexible with your meals and snacks without having to make an extra trip to the grocery store every time you cook. You can simply supplement your fresh finds with shelf-stable pantry items to create nourishing, flavor-packed dishes.
Additionally, stocking up on pantry staples can save you time and stress during the busier summer months when you’re likely wanting to make time for more exciting activities. When you have a well-stocked pantry, you don't have to worry as much about making an extra shopping trip or having to settle for less-than-ideal ingredients. You can simply reach into your pantry, pull what you need, and get cooking.
Perhaps most importantly, many pantry staples provide a nutritional boost that's perfect for fueling your active summer lifestyle. Items like protein powders, seeds, and dried fruits and veggies can help you maintain steady energy levels, support muscle recovery, and ensure you're getting key vitamins and minerals–even on your busiest days.
9 Pantry Superstars for Summer
So what are the essential pantry staples you should stock up on this summer? Here are 9 that deserve a permanent spot in your kitchen:
- Dried Fruits and Veggies
- Nut Butters and Powders
- Seeds
- Spices and Extracts
- Powdered Milks
- Oats
- Honey and Maple Syrup
- Dried Herbs and Spices
- Protein Powders
Let's dive into each of these pantry superstars and explore why they're so beneficial to have on hand all summer long.
1. Dried Fruits and Veggies
Freeze-dried and dehydrated fruits and vegetables are fantastic pantry staples that can add big flavor, texture, and nutrition to your summer meals and snacks. Some of the most versatile and essential options to stock up on include freeze-dried bananas, organic freeze-dried mango, organic freeze-dried raspberries, organic freeze-dried chopped kale, and dried chopped spinach.
These nutrient-dense dried fruits and veggies provide an easy way to enjoy the bold flavors and nutritional benefits of summer produce all year long. You can toss them into smoothies, sprinkle them on top of yogurt and oatmeal, or enjoy them as standalone snacks. And since they're shelf-stable, you don't have to worry about them spoiling quickly like fresh produce.
Looking to spice up your breakfast? Toss some freeze-dried berries into a Simple Oatmeal for a delectable flavor burst.
2. Nut Butters and Powders
Whether you prefer creamy, crunchy, or powdered, high-quality nut butters and powders are incredibly versatile pantry staples. They can lend rich texture, protein, and satisfying flavor to both sweet and savory summer dishes. Some key options to keep on hand include natural peanut butter, organic PB Lite (powdered peanut butter), and organic almond butter.
These versatile nut butters and powders can be used in everything from baking and cooking to DIY energy bars and smoothies. They provide a steady stream of protein, healthy fats, and satisfying flavor to power you through the summer months.
Want to sip on some nut butter goodness this summer? Whip up a Salted Caramel Cookie Smoothie with almond butter.
3. Seeds
Small but mighty, seeds are powerhouse pantry staples that deliver a boost of plant-based nutrition. From omega-3-rich chia and flax to protein-packed hemp and pumpkin, stocking up on a variety of seeds ensures you can easily incorporate them into your summer meals and snacks. Other top seed options include organic cacao nibs, which offer a guilt-free chocolate fix within a great source of antioxidants.
Incorporating a variety of these nutrient-dense seeds into your summer meals and snacks is an easy way to elevate the nutrition in everything from smoothies to yogurt parfaits.
Wanting to mix up your baking routine this summer? Try our Sweet Potato Bagel recipe topped with flax and sunflower seeds.
4. Spices and Extracts
The right blend of spices and extracts can instantly transform simple summer dishes into flavor-packed culinary masterpieces. Stocking your pantry with a vibrant array of organic options will allow you to infuse your cooking with bold, refreshing tastes.
Some key spices and extracts to consider include cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, vanilla extract, citrus extracts, and mint extract.
With these spices and extracts on hand, you can easily elevate the taste and nutritional value of all your warm-weather meals and treats.
Looking for a refreshing minty beverage to sip on this summer? Try our Chocolate Java Mint Smoothie using our 100% Organic Mint Extract.
5. Powdered Milks
For a shelf-stable, dairy-free alternative to fresh milk, keep a variety of powdered milk options in your pantry. These versatile ingredients can be easily blended into smoothies, used in baking, or enjoyed as a chilled beverage. Some top powdered milk picks include organic nonfat dry milk, powdered vanilla almond milk, powdered chocolate almond milk, and organic powdered vanilla oat milk.
These shelf-stable powdered milk products allow you to enjoy the rich, creamy taste of dairy or plant-based milks without worrying about spoilage. They're perfect for keeping your summer smoothies, overnight oats, and baked goods dairy-free and delicious.
6. Oats
A nutritional powerhouse, organic rolled oats are a must-have pantry staple for the summer months. Versatile and filling, oats can be used to make everything from overnight oats and granola to hearty baked goods. Some of the key ways to stock up on and enjoy oats this summer include:
Whether you're looking to whip up a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a wholesome baked treat, having ample organic oats on hand will serve you well all summer long.
Need a new go-to granola bar? Try whipping up a batch of Spiced Cocoa Granola Bars made with oats.
7. Honey and Maple Syrup
For a naturally sweet addition to your summer pantry, stock up on raw, unprocessed honey and pure maple syrup. These versatile ingredients can add depth of flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.
- Raw Honey: Honey's natural sweetness and subtle floral notes make it a fantastic addition to marinades, dressings, baked goods, and more. It also offers antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits.
- Pure Maple Syrup: 100% pure maple syrup provides a deeper, more complex sweetness than typical table sugar. Drizzle it on pancakes and waffles, use it to sweeten iced tea, or incorporate it into baked treats.
Whether you're looking to add a touch of sweetness to your summer meals or create decadent desserts, having these natural sweeteners on hand ensures you can do so with maximum flavor and nutritional value.
8. Dried Herbs and Spices
Elevate all of your summer salads, grilled meats, and veggie dishes with a well-stocked selection of dried herbs and spices. Some must-have options to keep in your pantry include:
- Basil: Dried basil lends its signature fresh, herbal flavor to tomato-based dishes, pesto, and more.
- Cayenne: Cayenne contains capsaicin, which may help boost metabolism and improve circulation.
- Cardamom: Cardamom is rich in antioxidants that can help fight free radicals and may have anti-inflammatory effects. Cardamom can also aid digestion and help reduce bloating.
- Lavender: Lavender has a calming, relaxing aroma that can help reduce stress and anxiety. Lavender also contains compounds with antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that may promote better sleep.
- Oregano: This earthy, slightly minty herb complements a wide variety of savory summer recipes, from marinades to pizza.
- Rosemary: With its woody, piney aroma, dried rosemary is a perfect pairing for grilled meats, roasted veggies, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
- Garlic Powder: An essential for seasoning everything from burgers to dips, garlic powder provides savory depth of flavor.
- Onion Powder: Similarly versatile, onion powder can enhance the taste of dressings, marinades, and rubs.
By stocking up on a diverse selection of dried herbs and spices, you can easily transform simple summer fare into flavorful, crave-worthy meals.
9. Protein Powders
To keep your protein intake high throughout the warm weather months, be sure to have a variety of protein powder options on hand. These convenient, shelf-stable ingredients can be blended into smoothies, shakes, and even baked goods for an extra nutritional boost. Some top protein powder picks include:
- Vanilla Daily Whey Protein Matrix: Our pure, premium whey protein powder delivers 24g of protein per serving to support muscle recovery and growth. It mixes seamlessly into shakes, smoothies, and more.
- Chocolate Daily Whey Protein Matrix: For a decadent protein treat, this chocolate-flavored whey powder is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in a nutritious way.
- Organic Vanilla Ancient Grains Plant Protein: Made with a blend of plant-based proteins from sources like pea, quinoa, and chia, this vegan powder is a wonderful option for dairy-free diets.
- Organic Chocolate Ancient Grains Plant Protein: The rich chocolate flavor of this plant-based protein makes it ideal for chocolate-lovers looking to increase their daily protein intake.
Whether you choose whey or plant-based varieties, keeping an assortment of protein powders on hand ensures you can easily add a protein punch to all your favorite summer recipes.
Keep A Well-Stocked Pantry All Summer Long
By stocking your pantry with these essential ingredients, you'll be well-equipped to create quick, nourishing meals and snacks all season long. From dried fruits and veggies to spices, seeds, and protein powders, these versatile staples will serve as the building blocks for your warm-weather culinary creations. If you need any inspiration, check out our wholesome, tasty recipes.
With a well-stocked pantry, you can savor all the joys of the season without the stress of constant grocery store trips or lacking the right ingredients. So fill your kitchen with these summer pantry superstars–your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you!
Check out our full range of swiig’s organic whole foods here today.
Sources:
HSA - 8 Pantry Staples You Should Stock