Are you the type who only buys groceries for the next meal or two? That’s great for the perfect recipe you discover on YouTube or Food Network that sends you racing to the store for ingredients, but it leaves you in a pinch for an unplanned dinner.
You don’t need to keep your fridge stocked like the farmers market, but a few staples will guarantee healthy, delicious meals at the last minute.
Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics — the good bacteria that help develop a healthy microbiome and better gut health.
If you’re new to microbiome health, it’s fascinating, but your gut has its own ecosystem filled with good and bad bacteria that affect your overall health.
The probiotics in Greek yogurt help push your microbiome in the right direction.
And make sure you get the plain stuff without any added flavors or sugars. It’s a healthier alternative to sour cream, or you can add a drizzle of honey or some berries (more on those below) for a sweet treat.
Eggs
Eggs are the ultimate versatile food — boil, scramble, poach, and fry them. They’re a staple in many recipes, packed with nutrients, primarily affordable (organic, pasture-raised will cost more) and friendly for most vegetarians.
One egg is just 75 calories but has 7 grams of protein. Egg yolks contain more cholesterol, but you can stick to the whites if that’s a concern. Keep a dozen of these in your fridge at all times.
Protein punch: Looking for quick protein elsewhere? Protein is essential in our daily intake. Click here for our Protein Ball Recipe, which is so easy to make.
Salsa
You weren’t going to eat those eggs plain, were you? A good salsa is an absolute must in the fridge, and it’s easy to make your own with fresh ingredients.
If you like spice, make a simple pico de gallo using tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, limes, and jalapeno. Eat it with eggs, lean meats, salads, and just about any other savory dish for a dash of fresh produce and much more flavor.
Seltzer
There isn’t a nutritional advantage to seltzer — just carbonated water — but it’s a great deterrent from soda and other sugary beverages. You should still drink noncarbonated water to stay hydrated during the day, but a glass of ice-cold seltzer can be a refreshing change.
Better with BĒA: Looking for a seltzer to boost your mornings (and the rest of your day)? BĒA Sparkling Energy Drink is naturally caffeinated and sweetened with less than 1 gram of sugar.
Berries
Berries are low in calories and high in antioxidants, nutrients, and fiber. Plenty of fruit in your fridge would be great, but berries are the absolute best sweet treat to keep on hand.
Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries can go right in your yogurt or be blended into your Whole Blend IsaLean Shake. It’s also Plant-Based!
Incredible antioxidants: Add even more to your routine with Cleanse for Life and Ionix Supreme, packed with adaptogens.
There are plenty of honorable mentions — fresh bell peppers, frozen lean meats, or pickled red onion — but the list above will save you from those unprepared moments when you need a last-minute meal.
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