Quality ingredients are key to great Italian cooking, but who has the time to grocery shop multiple times per week? Keeping a well-stocked pantry can help any home cook whip up a variety of meals in no time.
Any number of meals is possible with a well-stocked pantry.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: An extremely versatile oil featured in several dishes, dressings, sauces, and more. Always keep EVOO on hand for a healthier alternative to standard cooking oils.
Vinegar: We recommend balsamic alongside white wine, red wine and apple cider vinegar. A wide variety of vinegars allow for different flavor profiles and applications.
Chicken Stock: Keep a few cans of low-sodium stock for soups and sauces. To save more space, keep a powdered variety on hand.
Dried Pasta: High-quality pasta can make the difference between a good meal or a great one. Bronze die-cut pasta ensure a ridged surface, ideal for gripping on to oils and sauces. Keep an assortment of pasta from each category on hand, such as Penne Rigate, Spaghetti, Linguine, Lasagna, Orzo and Shell.
Canned Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, and Tomato Sauce: Can your own from your summer garden, or keep pre-made cans and jars in your cupboard. Sauce up your pasta or add diced tomatoes to a dish for added vitamins and color.
Garlic and Onions: Fresh garlic and onions last a long time by themselves. They are an easy addition to any dish and add tons of flavor.
Parmesan and Grana Padano: Hard cheeses maintain their taste and texture for 2-4 months past their printed date in the refrigerator (or 6-8 months in the freezer). Keep these cheeses around to top off plates or salads.
Canned or Dried Mushrooms: Mushrooms are a tasty addition to salads, pastas, pizza and soups.
Canned Fish: To make any meal feel truly Sicilian, keep an array of canned fish on hand, such as anchovies, sardines, and tuna.
Antipasti Trays are easy when the ingredients are readily available. Entertain in a flash.
Dried Legumes: Beans are an easy, fiscally responsible addition to a number of hearty meals. Try keeping cannellini beans, chickpeas, fava beans or lentils.
Olives: Whip up an antipasto tray or chop up and serve with pasta, pizza, or salads. Olives are flavorful and versatile. Learn more about the varieties of olives and how to select what’s best for you with our Olive Selector.
Capers: Another quick addition to add a punch of real Italiano taste.
Seasonings:
- Black Pepper
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Bay Leaves
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Basil
- Parsley
Download and Print a Pantry Checklist!
Now that you’re ready to prepare a true Cervasi family Italian pantry, be sure to browse the recipe page for quick and easy meals.
