Easy Food Recipes Using Pantry Staples

Name: Easy Food Recipes Using Pantry Staples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas; 1 can diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love whipping up meals with ingredients I already have on hand, especially on busy evenings. There's something so satisfying about creating delicious dishes from pantry staples. These recipes help you make the most of what you have, minimizing grocery trips and saving money. Whether it's a quick pasta dish or a hearty soup, you'll find that there's a world of flavors waiting to be discovered in your pantry. Let's dive into some of my favorite go-to recipes that are not only simple but packed with taste.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:10:10.341Z

During a particularly hectic week, I challenged myself to cook exclusively with pantry staples. I discovered that not only was it possible, but it was also an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. My favorite creation was a rustic chickpea stew that packed a punch of flavor using canned tomatoes and dried herbs.

I learned that by layering spices and allowing the ingredients to simmer together, the flavors meld beautifully. This method proved that even the simplest items in my pantry can be transformed into a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone would love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Versatility to adapt with any staples available
Quick and hassle-free preparation for busy days
Delicious meals that don’t break the bank

      

Unlocking the Flavors of Your Pantry

The combination of chickpeas and diced tomatoes acts as a hearty base for this stew. Chickpeas not only provide protein and fiber but also absorb the flavors of the spices and aromatics beautifully. When simmered together with tomatoes, they create a rich texture that makes for a satisfying meal. You can even mash some of the chickpeas against the pot's side during cooking to thicken the stew naturally without needing additional thickeners.

Utilizing vegetable broth in this recipe adds depth to the overall taste, enhancing both the chickpeas and the tomato base. If you're low on vegetable broth, feel free to substitute with water or a homemade stock you have frozen. Just remember, if using water, adjust your seasoning as it may require a bit more salt and spices to achieve the same flavor profile.

Perfecting Your Stew Technique

Sautéing the onion and garlic until they're slightly golden is key to building flavor in this dish. Aim for that fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen after about five minutes on medium heat. If you're short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder as quick substitutes, but fresh ingredients will always provide a more robust flavor that you might miss.

When simmering the stew, keep an eye on the consistency. If it appears too watery after the 25-minute mark, let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes uncovered to allow some liquid to evaporate. On the flip side, if it thickens too much, just stir in a little extra vegetable broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.

Ingredients

Pantry Staples

1 can chickpeas
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

These simple ingredients come together to create mouthwatering dishes that are both nourishing and satisfying.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the canned chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Stew

Let the stew simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to develop.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, with bread or over rice.

Enjoy your delicious meal made entirely from pantry staples!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding any vegetables you have on hand, like spinach or zucchini, to increase the nutrition and flavor.

Making It Your Own

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily toss in any additional vegetables that you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them when you combine the canned ingredients. They will cook through in the same time it takes for the stew to simmer, providing extra nutrients and flavor.

For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the pot during cooking. This pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of tomatoes and can easily transform the flavor profile of the dish. Experiment with your spice level—start small and adjust to your taste preference.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It freezes well too! If you're looking to make a large batch, divide the cooled stew into portions and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or heat directly from frozen on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

When reheating, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning again if needed, as flavors can sometimes mellow after sitting. A fresh squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the dish, especially if frozen. I recommend serving it with crusty bread or a side of rice to soak up all the delicious broth!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute chickpeas for any other beans you have, such as black beans or kidney beans.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.