Unfortunately, many healthy foods are highly perishable, and hence, have to be used within a few days. Because of this, you may find yourself running out of the ingredients you need to prepare nutritious snacks and meals even before the week is up.

Knowing which items you should always buy when shopping for your groceries at an online supermarket in Dubai ensures you’ll always have a number of healthy pantry staples you can cook or eat even if you don’t have your usual fresh go-to foods or ingredients.

With these items on hand, you’ll be able to reduce the need to dine out or order takeaway and eat unhealthy foods.

Healthy Pantry Staples to Always Stock Up On

To be sure you’ll always have something healthy to eat at home, make a point of including these pantry staples on your grocery list:

1 Eggs

Eggs are versatile pantry staples that you can enjoy any time of the day. They are rich in protein and a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients your body needs to thrive. As such, they are the perfect ingredient for various types of dishes.

You can make nutrient-packed veggie omelets for breakfast, add a fried egg to stir fry noodles for lunch, and top a veggie salad with slices of hard-boiled egg for dinner.

Additionally, even if eggs are considered perishable, they can last up to two weeks unrefrigerated.

2. Whole grains

Quinoa, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, oatmeal, and bran flakes are some examples of healthy dried goods that contain whole grains that you should always have in your pantry.

Whole grains are rich in various nutrients, including fiber and energy-supplying complex carbs.

Oatmeal and bran flakes make for a quick and hearty breakfast that will help you feel full for hours. Add raisins, fresh fruits, and milk to boost their flavor and nutrient content.

Quinoa is another type of whole grain that’s also rich in fiber and protein. It is an excellent side dish for lunch and dinner and can also be added to salads.

3. Canned Fish

Tuna and salmon are two of the healthiest foods around that you need to start eating more of.

Canned tuna has the same health benefits as the fresh variety but comes in a convenient form and at a more affordable price. Tuna contains omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other nutrients.

For a healthier option, choose tuna in water since it contains fewer calories.

Aside from tuna, you can also stock up on canned salmon. You can mix this seafood in various dishes and use it the same way as tuna.

Like tuna, canned salmon is also rich in various nutrients that can help you meet your body’s daily recommended dietary needs.

4. Canned and Dried Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are two of the best foods rich in B-vitamins, iron, fiber, magnesium, and other nutrients.

Dried and canned pulses are versatile as well. Black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils are excellent ingredients and additions to stews, chilies, soups, and salads. They can also make these dishes more filling.

Dried and canned beans and lentils have long shelf lives, which means storing them won’t be a problem. You can even stock up on dried pulses for years.

5. Low-Sodium Broth and Stock

Broths and stocks are must-have pantry staples since you need these to cook quick, hearty soups and stews.

Simply add quinoa, beans, lentils, or any canned or dried pulses, and veggies or protein you have on hand and you’ll have something filling and nutritious for lunch or dinner. 

Aside from chicken, beef, and pork broth and stock, vegan and vegetarian varieties are also delicious and healthy options.

However, make sure you choose low-sodium products for healthier meals.

6. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are also must-have pantry staples since they are the perfect snacks to munch on. They are packed with various vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, fiber, and other nutrients.

Aside from being the ideal snack, nuts and seeds can also be added to a variety of dishes, including cereals, oatmeal, pasta, and salads.

You can also store nuts and seeds at room temperature for weeks and even months.

7. Nut Butter

Stocking up on peanut, cashew, walnut, coconut, and other types of nut butter is also something you will never regret doing.

Nut butter is a versatile food item that you can add to sauces, smoothies, and desserts. You can also use these as dips for your favorite fresh and dried fruit and veggie sticks.

You can also spread nut butter on slices of bread, crackers, or biscuits to make quick yet filling snacks. Eating a banana with a smear of peanut butter is also a smart breakfast idea if you don’t have enough time to prepare a bowl of cereal or oatmeal.

More importantly, nut butter is rich in healthy fats, protein, and other nutrients making it a great staple to have in your pantry at all times.

If you have these staples at home, you can put together a quick meal or a quick snack faster than it takes delivery to get to your house.

Moreover, you’ll have something healthy to eat for your usual meals and snacks and even for any type of party.