pasta with garlic and olive oil
Pasta is a pantry staple that can be transformed into a delicious meal with just a few ingredients.
Boil some pasta, and while it cooks, sauté minced garlic in olive oil.
Toss the drained pasta with the garlic oil, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and any herbs you have on hand.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated cheese if you have it!
vegetable stir-fry
If you have any veggies lingering in the fridge, a quick stir-fry is the way to go.
Chop up whatever you have—carrots, bell peppers, or even wilted greens.
Sauté them in a pan with a bit of oil, soy sauce, and any spices you enjoy.
Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
omelette or frittata
soup from scraps
Don’t underestimate the power of a simple soup.
Use any leftover vegetables, grains, or proteins to create a comforting broth.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add your vegetables, some broth (or water), and seasonings.
Let it simmer until everything is tender. Strain and you have instant broth. YUM!
quesadillas
If you have tortillas, you can make quick quesadillas.
Fill them with cheese and any leftover proteins or vegetables.
Cook on a skillet until the cheese melts and the tortillas are crispy.
Serve with salsa or sour cream if you have it.
rice bowl
Cook some rice or use leftover rice as a base.
Top it with whatever you have—cooked beans, sautéed veggies, or a fried egg.
Drizzle with soy sauce or your favorite dressing to tie it all together.
canned goods remix
Sometimes, your pantry can save the day!
Canned beans, tomatoes, or vegetables can be the foundation for a quick chili or a chunky sauce.
Combine with spices, and serve over rice or pasta for a filling meal.
homemade pizza
If you have flour, yeast, or even a store-bought crust, you can make pizza.
Top it with whatever you have—tomato sauce, cheese, and any leftover toppings.
Bake until golden and enjoy a delicious homemade pizza.
tips for future fridge management
- Plan Ahead: Make a meal plan at the beginning of the week to use up ingredients before they spoil.
- Stock Up on Staples: Keep a few pantry essentials like pasta, rice, canned goods, and frozen vegetables on hand for easy meals.
- Embrace Leftovers: Get creative with leftovers by incorporating them into new dishes, minimizing waste while enjoying new dishes.
