Every nutritionist will advise you to plan your meals in advance because it can help you eat healthier. While this is certainly true, it is also a fact that it is not always realistic. Not everyone can plan their meals in advance all the time, but this does not mean that they cannot eat healthy. If you have not yet mastered the art of meal planning, you can just stock your pantry with healthy items. There are some staple foods that you can use for healthy eating and some of them are highlighted as follows.
Canned chickpeas
A can of chickpeas can be used for making all sorts of lunches and dinners. Even though their appearance is humble, they are a nutritional powerhouse. They gain protein, fiber and are also high in manganese, which promotes bone health. Likewise, they also comprise of folate, a B vitamin that can help in forming DNA and creating new cells. They can be added to stews and soups, or you can also make chickpea salads, tacos and cakes.
Chicken breast
Chicken is undoubtedly the fan-favorite for various meals, which include sandwiches, stir-fries, soups, casseroles, pasta and more. Skinless and boneless chicken breasts can be used for making dinner and they can provide plenty of protein. You can just add a whole grain, such as pasta, quinoa, or rice, or a vegetable, such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli. The high-quality protein it provides can help in building muscle, strengthen your immune system and also promote wound healing.
Smoked salmon
The healthy fats and versatility of fresh salmon are touted everywhere, but smoked salmon is even better because it is already cooked and you can just add it into wraps, pastas and salads. It can pair quite well with flavors like smoky paprika, dill, lemon, or cream cheese. It comprises of lots of omega-3 fatty acids that can benefit your brain and heart health. Smoked salmon also contains antioxidants and vitamins A and E for combating inflammation.
Red lentils
While there are several colors of lentils you can choose from, such as black, brown, yellow and green, red boasts an earthy flavor that is slightly sweet and mild. They have health benefits galore because they contain a lot of antioxidants and fiber, which makes them good for heart health. Most importantly, they also provide a lot of protein.
Quinoa
If you are looking for a grain in a grain salad, stir-fry or casserole, you should give quinoa a try. It can be a good change from the typical rice. The various health benefits that quinoa offers make it an excellent choice. The fiber it contains will keep you full and promote healthy bowel movements and weight loss. It also has considerable protein content. Other nutrients include high levels of copper, manganese, magnesium, anti-inflammatory flavonoids and micronutrients.
Sweet potatoes
The earthy flavor of sweet potatoes pairs well with spices, such as nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger. They can be added to pasta, curries and tacos. They have tons of potassium that can keep your muscles and nerves firing properly and their soluble fiber is great for ensuring steady blood sugar and lowering cholesterol.
