Pantry Staples That Stretch

A well-stocked pantry is the closest thing to a money-back guarantee at dinner time. The trick isn't buying more — it's buying the right seven things.

Lentils, good olive oil, canned tomatoes, garlic, onions, eggs, and a sturdy grain like farro or rice. With those alone you can build soups, bowls, frittatas, and pastas for a whole week.

Pair them with whatever produce is on sale and you've got dinner for a fraction of what takeout would cost — and it tastes better, too.