The holiday season is always a busy time of year. Even though this year will be unique, as we won’t be attending or throwing parties like we may have in years past, it’s always nice to have a pantry stocked with holiday essentials. Here are some ideas for your shopping list.

Spices

Whether you’ll be making cookies, pies, cakes, or hot chocolate, you’ll need a good selection of spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and ginger are definite necessities. If you want to take it up a notch, add cardamom to your list. And don’t forget some savory spices for roasts or comforting side dishes, such as sage, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.

Oatmeal

Sure, it’s simple, but its versatility earns it a place in your pantry. This is great to have on hand for oatmeal cookies, crumble toppings, and yes, even for a quick, hearty breakfast.

Baking Essentials

Even in the unusual holiday season of 2020, we can take comfort in familiar traditions, like baking Christmas cookies (and pies, and cakes, and sweet breads…). Make sure you have all the necessities on hand: all purpose flour, brown sugar, white sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt.

Pickled Vegetables

This is an easy way to add some spice to a cheese plate, appetizer spread, or even to a plain green salad. Get a few jars of mixed veggies, but also some pickled asparagus, okra, and beets to add color and style to your spread. (You can even make your own pickled vegetables if you like to cook.)

French’s Crispy Fried Onions

It might not be the healthiest thing in your pantry, but this classic holiday topping is a great way to jazz up a plate of green beans or even a potato casserole.

Garbanzo Beans

These little beans, also known as chickpeas, make a fun and unique appetizer when you roast them, giving them a crispy crunch. You can also use the liquid in the can for vegan meringue cookies.

For more tips on stocking your pantry and eating well this holiday season, visit the Olympus Waterford blog.