Abilene Crave

As a Registered Dietitian and a food lover, best-selling author and Food Network host Ellie Krieger, MS, RD, knows that the secret to creating easy meals is to keep the pantry stocked with versatile and nutritious foods. "When you have wholesome ingredients on hand, it's easy to make a good-for-you meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor," says Krieger.  "Luckily there are many foods where versatile and delicious intersect, which is why almonds are always in my kitchen."

Here are some pantry essentials Krieger recommends:

* Almonds. Whole almonds can be paired with dried fruit or flavored with various spices for a convenient on the go snack. In addition, try other almond products such as almond butter, flour and milk. Almond butter can be used to make sauces, like in the recipe below.  Almond flour makes a crunchy, flavorful coating for chicken, fish or pork. Almond milk is great in your morning cereal or coffee.
* Heart-Healthy Oils. Oils such as canola, extra virgin olive oil and almond oil contain monounsaturated fat, make excellent salad dressings, and can be used in essentially any dish from pastas and veggies to fish and chicken.
* Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Stock. Create low-fat soups, sauces and marinades.
* Canned or Dried Beans. A favorite way to add fiber and protein to any salad, soup or dip.
* Canned Tomatoes. A perfect ingredient for soups, sauces, salads and salsas.

To get the most out of the items in your pantry and freezer, the Almond Board of California has launched the Pantry Recipe Express.  The Pantry Recipe Express can help transform pantry staples into extraordinary meals. With just a few clicks you'll discover how a handful of almonds, plus a few staples can become amazing meals - straight out of your pantry or freezer! Enter the ingredients you currently have on hand and the interactive tool will automatically generate delicious recipe ideas - like this delicious Asian Noodle Bowl with Spicy Almond Sauce, developed by Ellie Krieger.

Discover more great recipes and get Krieger's complete So Easy Pantry List at AlmondBoard.com.