Good ideas

Foods to keep in your freezer pantry at all times 

By Gabriella Vigoreaux 

Imagine a world where you could eat something different for dinner every night of the week without having to start a meal from scratch each time. A reality where, say, seemingly time-consuming dishes like homemade pizza, could actually be ready in minutes. The key to this wonderful existence where every night is a different culinary adventure lies in your freezer. And, no, we're not talking about frozen burritos and DiGiorno's, guys. 

Here are things you might not think to keep in your freezer but definitely should. 

1.  Shredded cheese 

That good hunk of cheese leftover from one of these recipes which inevitably seems to go moldy before you can even eat it all doesn't have to go bad. Next time you have leftovers, shred the remainder of the cheese, freeze it in a plastic bag, and thaw it out in just a few minutes as you need it. 

2.  Nuts 

The freezer actually makes nuts last longer because it keeps the oils in them from going rancid. If you buy your nuts in bulk, only keep out what you think you will eat soon and freeze the rest. They thaw really quickly on your kitchen counter and you can always have them on hand for pestos, salads, baking, or snacking. 

3.  Cooked grains 

We're going to go ahead and make a bold statement right now: You should probably always cook more grains than you think you need. Cooked rice is one of the best things you can have in your freezer and you'll be so happy to come home after a long day and know that you don't have to wait 30 minutes to cook a new batch. Just store it in a freezer-proof container and add a couple tablespoons of water to a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl to heat it back up again. 

4.  Sliced bread 

Having sliced bread in your freezer is the best thing since sliced bread--no really. Just pop it in the oven or toaster and make yourself a sandwich. Or something trendy like avocado toast. 

5.  Puff pastry 

Frozen puff pastry is a lifesaver for the last minute host/hostess. You can transform into an impressive and insanely delicious appetizer, main, or dessert in (almost) no time.