When times are tight and we can't afford all the groceries we are used to, it's nice to have
staple pantry items
in the
house that keep well like rice, dried beans, pasta, flour, and other dry
pantry goods that can be used to make wholesome, filling, and inexpensive meals.
Tomato soup is a
staple in our
house (ahem, apartment), and it's a great heart - healthy option that can be customized a bit to include what needs to be used up
in your
pantry, like beans or fresh bell peppers.