There’s something so comforting about opening your pantry and knowing you can pull together something delicious without a plan. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend breakfast, or last-minute hosting, these staples are what make cooking feel effortless and inspired.
I’ve learned that keeping a well-stocked pantry isn’t about having everything—it’s about having the right things. The ones that make your food taste better, simplify your process, and bring that little spark of creativity back to the kitchen.
Below are the pantry staples I reach for again and again—organized by category, and all linked in my ShopMy collection here.
Oils & Vinegars
The foundation of flavor. A good olive oil brings richness, while a splash of vinegar balances and brightens any dish.
– GRAZA Drizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil — the olive oil I use daily for finishing and flavor.
– Organic Sesame Oil — adds depth and nutty aroma to Asian-inspired dishes.
– Balsamic Vinegar — perfect for salads, roasted veggies, or drizzling over tomatoes.
– Balsamic Glaze — my secret shortcut to a restaurant-style drizzle.
– High Heat Cooking Oil Spray — for easy, even coating when roasting or searing.
Grains, Carbs, & Pasta
Versatile bases that make dinners feel grounded and satisfying.
– Orzo — one of my all-time favorites. It cooks quickly and works as a side, in soups, or even as a base for bowls.
– Sweet potatoes – When perfectly roasted in oil and a little seasonings, these make a wonderful side or addition to salads.
– Yukon Gold Potatoes – Perfect for roasting and making smashed potatoes, or turn them into the creamiest mashed potatoes.
– Jasmine Rice – The base of most of my asian dishes, it is perfectly aromatic and fluffy.
Spices & Seasonings
I always say salt is the most important ingredient in the kitchen. It enhances, balances, and brings food to life.
– Crate & Barrel Pacific Sea Salt — clean, bright, and perfect for everyday use.
– Sea Salt with Grinder — an easy table staple.
– OLD BAY Gluten-Free Seasoning — a little taste of my Alaska roots and perfect for seafood nights.
– Dried Thyme — one of my favorite herbs for adding earthy, aromatic depth to soups, sauces, and roasts.
Condiments & Flavor Boosters
These are the things that make a simple meal taste special.
– Grey Poupon Dijon Mustard — adds sharpness and depth to dressings, marinades, or sauces.
– Original Sichuan Chili Crisp — my go-to for instant flavor and crunch.
– Sun Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil — a little salty, a little sweet, and endlessly useful.
– Superfood Raspberry Jam — a natural, vibrant touch for breakfasts or cheese boards.
– Rosso Pesto — bold, rich, and packed with flavor; I love tossing it with orzo, spreading it on sandwiches, or stirring it into creamy sauces.
– Hot Honey — sweet heat that’s perfect drizzled over pizza, roasted veggies, or even cornbread.
Baking & Sweet Essentials
Because even savory cooks need a few baking staples on hand.
– Simply Organic Pure Madagascar Vanilla Extract — pure, aromatic, and worth every drop.
– 100% Pure Maple Syrup — my preferred natural sweetener for baking or drizzling on oats.
Fresh Refrigerator Staples
These are the ingredients I always keep stocked in my fridge — the ones that tie everything together and make meals feel fresh and flavorful.
– Good-Quality Butter — I’m never without it. It adds richness, golden color, and that unmistakable homemade flavor to everything from toast to sauces.
– Heavy Cream — for soups, sauces, or adding just a touch of luxury to weeknight dishes.
– Fresh Garlic — a non-negotiable. Whether it’s roasted whole, minced for marinades, or sautéed in olive oil, garlic is where nearly every great meal begins.
Kitchen Basics I Always Keep Nearby
A few tools that make cooking (and cleanup) simpler.
– Parchment Baking Sheets — for roasting vegetables or baking with zero fuss.
– Kitchen Basics Set of 3 — my go-to trio for prep and storage.
– Zester — because a touch of lemon zest can make any dish brighter.
When you stock your pantry with ingredients that inspire you, cooking becomes less about following recipes and more about creating. These staples are what keep my kitchen running—familiar, flavorful, and always ready for a new idea.
You can find all my favorite pantry staples linked in one place right here on ShopMy.
