So many recipes I make and post have black beans, these little gems contain a lot of protein contents and fiber, each cup has about 15 grams of both protein and fiber. I also keep on hand white beans for soups. Corn and green beans for a side dish? How about adding Canadian Bacon in those green beans for additional flavor. Tomatoes can't live without them, diced tomatoes, rotel for spicy dishes, Italian tomatoes are great as a substitute in almost any dish, and the all important tomato sauce.
Don't forget those little cans like green chili's, mushrooms, black olives and jalapeno. Not just for recipes, these little cans can make an omelet or egg scramble a great start to the day.
I would say the most important items I always use are: white onions, red onions and fresh garlic. And don’t forget your spice rack. Every family and every cuisine has its own favorite spices. Decide what your go-to spices are, and make sure you have some stocked in your pantry. Mine are oregano, basil, parsley, garlic powder, garlic salt, cumin you get the idea...I probably have them all! Cooking healthy doesn't mean losing flavor.