A well-stocked pantry allows you to grab healthy, wholesome ingredients anytime you need them. These ingredients will add quality and nutrition to any recipe you make. Keep them on hand to boost your plant-based diet with extra nutrition throughout the day.

A well-stocked pantry allows you to grab healthy, wholesome ingredients anytime you need them. Keep these ingredients on hand to boost your plant-based diet with extra nutrition.

Flax seed meal

Flax seeds are handy for a variety of recipes. Mixing flax seed with a little water creates a great alternative to eggs for any type of baking recipe. Flax seed is also a great source of healthy fat and fiber. Add a tablespoon or two to your favorite muffin or smoothie recipe for an extra boost of nutrition.

Hemp seeds

Also called hemp hearts, this nutrient-dense seed is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These little seeds are also a great source of plant-based protein. Best of all, hemp seeds add a nutty, delicious flavor. Keep these in the pantry to sprinkle on oatmeal or coconut yogurt.

Vegan protein powder

Having protein powder in your pantry really comes in handy. It’s easy to use anytime you need extra protein in a recipe, or to make a quick shake when you’re short on time. Throw a scoop in your favorite smoothie, oatmeal or even pancake or muffin batter. A lot of vegan protein powders are full of artificial flavors and fillers, but the brand Naked Nutrition offers a vegan pea protein powder that contains only one ingredient – yellow pea protein powder from U.S. and Canadian farms.

Oats

Oats are a classic pantry staple. For the most benefit, choose a less processed form like rolled or steel cut oats. Oats are obviously great for making a hearty bowl of oatmeal. However, you can also throw them in the blender to make oat flour to use for baking. Buy gluten-free oats, and you have an easy gluten-free flour alternative. Oats also give great texture and an extra boost of fiber to baking recipes or black bean burgers.

Monk fruit sugar

If you’re trying to limit added sugar without using questionable alternatives, try monk fruit sugar. Extracted from monk fruit, this sweetener contains natural sugar and zero calories.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a great alternative to rice or pasta due to its high protein content. Adding quinoa is a delicious way to make any meal more hearty and filling. Use it as a side dish, in soups and stir fry, or try using it to make a healthy breakfast porridge.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil offers medium-chain triglycerides (MCT’s), which are great for brain health, heart health and weight management. It’s best to choose unrefined, virgin coconut oil for the best quality. Use coconut oil in all of your favorite recipes or add a little to your smoothie or coffee for an extra boost of healthy fat.

Dried beans and lentils

It’s always good to keep beans and lentils in the pantry to add plant-based protein to meals. Canned beans are usually high in sodium, and dried beans generally have better flavor and texture.

Raw nuts and nut butter

Raw nuts like almonds, walnuts and pecans are great for snacking. Including nuts in your diet on a regular basis is an easy way to incorporate healthy fats and protein. Choose plain, raw nuts to avoid unnecessary salt and sugar. Plain nuts are easier to use in recipes like baked goods, hot cereal, homemade granola, or on a smoothie bowl.

Nut butter like peanut, almond or cashew butter, is another classic pantry staple. This healthy spread is great with apple slices, celery sticks, blended in a smoothie or drizzled on healthy pancakes in place of syrup.

Sunflower and pumpkin seeds

Seeds are perfect for topping salads and oatmeal, for adding crunch to homemade granola, or as part of a healthy trail mix. Seeds are high in fiber, healthy fats and other nutrients.

Tahini

Tahini, made from sesame seeds, is commonly used to make hummus. However, it’s also a great alternative to nut butter and base for sauces and salad dressings. Tahini is high in fiber, protein and other nutrients like copper and selenium.

Give some of these pantry staples a try! One of the best things about them is that they’ll last you awhile, so it’s easy to stock up.