The 6 Absolute Best Canned Foods to Stock Your Pantry
A well-stocked pantry is an essential part of any home, providing both convenience and flexibility in the kitchen. Whether you’re in a rush or simply don’t feel like heading to the grocery store, having a variety of reliable canned goods on hand can make meal prep a breeze. And while you don’t need to be preparing for a disaster to stock up on pantry staples, having a few extra cans tucked away can save you on busy days or during unexpected circumstances.
Canned foods have been around since the early 1800s, and while modern preservation methods have improved, the fundamental goal remains the same: to keep food fresh and ready for consumption whenever you need it. But with so many options available, it can be hard to decide which canned foods are worth stocking up on. To help you make the best choices for your pantry, we’ve compiled a list of the six most versatile and useful canned foods that will become your go-to staples.
1. Canned Tomatoes: The Ultimate Kitchen Essential
Canned tomatoes are undeniably one of the most versatile ingredients in any pantry. Whether you prefer diced, crushed, whole, or in the form of sauce or paste, canned tomatoes are indispensable in many cuisines. From pasta sauces to soups and stews, a can of tomatoes can form the base of countless dishes, making them an essential item to have on hand.
To get the most out of your canned tomatoes, it’s important to keep the juice when using diced or whole tomatoes. The leftover tomato juice can be used to thin out soups or sauces, or even added to rice for extra flavor. If you’re after a high-quality option, look no further than San Marzano tomatoes. These plum tomatoes are known for their sweet flavor and minimal seeds, making them a favorite of chefs and home cooks alike. As celebrity chef Ina Garten notes, "San Marzano are the best quality tomatoes." Consider stocking up on these for your next pizza sauce, pasta dish, or homemade salsa.
2. Canned Beans: Convenience Meets Nutrition
Canned beans are a pantry game-changer. They offer all the nutritional benefits of dried beans without the long soaking and cooking time. Whether you need kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, or any other variety, a can of beans can instantly elevate your dish, whether it’s a chili, salad, soup, or even nachos.
One of the best parts about canned beans is their versatility. They add protein, fiber, and texture to almost any meal, making them a perfect pantry staple. A helpful tip: if you're trying to control your sodium intake, be sure to rinse your beans before using them. However, if your recipe needs some extra liquid and starch, don’t drain the can—use the bean liquid to thicken soups or add to your chili for extra richness. Canned beans are an easy, healthy, and convenient way to boost the nutritional value of any meal.
3. Canned Chickpeas: A Must-Have for Quick Meals
Although chickpeas can technically be categorized as a type of bean, they deserve their own mention as a pantry powerhouse. Canned chickpeas offer all the convenience of other canned beans, but with added versatility. Not only are they perfect for making hummus in a flash, but they can also be roasted for a crunchy snack, tossed in salads, or added to stews.
One of the unique advantages of canned chickpeas is the liquid they come in, known as aquafaba. This liquid is a magical ingredient for vegans and those with egg allergies, as it can be used as a replacement for eggs in many recipes, including meringues, mousse, and even certain baked goods. By saving the aquafaba from your chickpea cans, you can create delicious, egg-free desserts and savory dishes that might otherwise require eggs. So, the next time you’re making hummus, save the aquafaba—it may be the secret ingredient for your next vegan treat.
4. Canned Tuna: A Quick and Convenient Protein Source
Canned tuna is one of the most popular and accessible pantry staples. While it’s often considered a simple, no-frills option, it can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you’re making tuna salad, a tuna melt, or adding it to a pasta dish, canned tuna is an easy way to add protein to your meal without much effort.
For those who love to upgrade their canned tuna, try sautéing it in olive oil with garlic powder and a dash of lemon juice for a more flavorful, richer taste. This simple step can elevate your tuna dish and make it feel like a gourmet meal. When it comes to selecting canned tuna, albacore is a popular choice due to its higher levels of omega-3 fats. However, if mercury content is a concern, opt for light tuna, which has lower mercury levels. Canned tuna is an affordable and convenient protein source, making it a must-have for any well-stocked pantry.
5. Canned Sardines: Small Fish, Big Benefits
Sardines might not be everyone’s favorite, but they’re undoubtedly one of the most nutritious and versatile canned fish options available. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, sardines are a powerhouse when it comes to canned seafood. Unlike other canned fish, sardines can be eaten straight from the can or incorporated into dishes like pasta, salads, or even pizza.
For those looking to elevate their canned sardines, try adding them to a simple pasta dish, such as bucatini, for a quick and impressive meal. You can also pair them with canned tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic for a Mediterranean-inspired dish. If you're new to sardines, look for brands like Bela, which packs its sardines in lemon-infused olive oil, or Jose Gourmet, which offers Portuguese sardines in tomato sauce. Once you give sardines a try, you may find that they’re the perfect addition to your pantry rotation.
6. Canned Corn: A Convenient and Flavorful Side
Canned corn is another pantry essential that offers convenience without sacrificing flavor. Whether you're adding it to a casserole, tossing it in a salad, or simply serving it as a side dish, canned corn provides a quick, easy, and nutritious option for meals.
What’s more, canned corn retains many of the nutrients found in fresh corn, including fiber and vitamins, and it’s often more affordable than buying fresh or frozen corn. For vegans, canned cream corn is often made without dairy, making it a great option for a dairy-free dish. If you're not fond of the flavor of plain canned corn, try sautéing it with garlic, or add some spices or herbs to enhance the taste. With its versatility and long shelf life, canned corn is a must-have for your pantry.
Final Thoughts: Stock Up and Stay Ready
These six canned foods—tomatoes, beans, chickpeas, tuna, sardines, and corn—are all excellent choices for anyone looking to stock up their pantry with ingredients that are both convenient and versatile. Not only do they provide quick meal solutions, but they’re also packed with essential nutrients and offer great value for your money. By keeping these pantry staples on hand, you’ll always have the ingredients you need for a delicious meal, no matter how busy your day may be. So, take the time to stock up and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with being prepared for whatever life throws your way.
