Whether you forgot your list or have the kids in tow, it can be a challenge to remember what your kitchen is missing by the time you get to the grocery store. However, there are some items that you can never have enough of, so you can safely add them to your cart without worrying about waste. From versatility to long shelf lives, there are many reasons to purchase this list of grocery staples.

3 Items to Buy at the Grocery Store

1. Pasta & Marinara Sauce

If you need to make a quick dinner for your kids, pasta is a fast, hearty solution for their empty bellies. Dried pasta in a sealed package is good for one to two years, so you don’t have to worry about buying too much of it. Marinara sauce pairs perfectly with pasta and it lasts about a year unopened. After it’s opened, it lasts up to ten days in the fridge. You can also use it for homemade pizzas, so stock up on whichever brand is on sale. 

2. Garlic & Onions

A bulb of garlic will last up to six months, and onions will last the same during the winter. Both vegetables have a shelf life of up to two months in spring and summer.

Add these vegetables to stir-fries, roast them with meat and veggies, or flavor broths with these versatile, aromatic ingredients. You can even chop up onions and add them to raw dishes like tuna salad for punchy flavor and a crunchy texture.

3. Meat & Eggs

Even if you bought chicken breasts earlier this week, add some more to your cart on your next grocery run. You can freeze what you won’t consume in the next day or two in individual plastic bags. Luckily, most uncooked meats will last in the freezer for up to four months.

If you’re sticking to a vegetarian diet, stock up on eggs for a solid protein alternative. You can keep a carton in the fridge for three to five months, taking your time to make omelets, egg salad sandwiches, or cakes from scratch.

To stock up on all these grocery store staples, head to Schmitz's Economart of Spooner, WI. They are proud to be open 24/7, so you can shop at a time that works in your busy schedule. They also have USDA-certified Angus beef in addition to their fresh produce, so you’ll find everything you need to fill the pantry and fridge. To learn about their other departments, visit the website, or call (715) 635-2836.