Everyone is coming and going so quickly these days that time to cook or eat a healthy meal is shortened by busy schedules. With some planning ahead and stocking your kitchen with easy to use ingredients you will be able to put health meals together for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Teens will be able to put together a healthy meal when necessary. Being prepared saves time for everyone.

Whole grain pasta and brown rice, eggs and cheese, eggs and beans, all can be used to make a nutritious meal. Fresh, frozen and canned vegetables and fruit are always easy to use. Frozen fruits and vegetables come in handy. You can top a pre-made pizza crust with canned marinara sauce or pureed veggies. Fresh vegetables or left over chicken, fish or cooked shrimp can be used for toppings. Instead of syrup, pureed fruit mixed with yogurt can be used on store bought waffles. Pureed fruit is good in smoothies and delicious when poured over cake. A friend uses rotisserie chickens regularly to make stir fry, casseroles, fratitatas, and chicken salad. Leftovers can also be used for sandwiches for lunch the next day.

Canned beans, olive oil and lean meats plus fresh spices are ingredients to be kept available for quick meals. With basics ready to be used, a healthy meal is quick and easy. For example, a few fresh chopped and sauteed vegetables can be folded into an omelet which is perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. With a well-stocked pantry, a delicious convenient meal is only a few minutes away.