The Cook’s Kitchen

Having a well-stocked kitchen is an effective way to cook smarter.  By stocking a handful of staples, you’ll be able to whip up dinners for those hectic weeknights, and the times when unexpected company drops by.

A recent issue of Fine Cooking magazine detailed the 10 Fridge Essentials You Can’t Live Without:

“Most of us are good about keeping essentials like butter, milk and eggs on hand in our refrigerators.  But there are a few other items that a busy cook’s well-stocked fridge should never be without.  These are the ingredients that, when paired with a few pantry staples and a little imagination, can save you a trip to the market when it’s time to figure out what’s for dinner tonight.”

Lemons - they will keep in a refrigerator for about two weeks and punch up a variety of meals like soups, sauces and side dishes.

Dijon Mustard - a great addition to vinaigrettes, it’s an obvious condiment choice as well.

Chicken Broth - Versatile to the nth degree, you can make soups, sauces, pilafs and risotti with it.

Parmigiano Reggiano - Perfect in pastas and minestrones alike, keep a chunk in the fridge to add a just-grated intense flavor to a variety of dishes.  It will keep for about a month in the fridge.

Fresh Herbs - A quick easy way to add fresh flavor and color to any recipe.

Olives and Capers - Perfect additions to tomato sauces, and potato or pasta salads.  Olives are good for about a month in the fridge, and capers three.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes - Good for 3 months in the refrigerator, this is a great addition to pastas, pizzas, casseroles and gourmet sandwiches.

Fresh Ginger - Throw together a bunch of ingredients to make a last minute stir-fry, and ginger is the perfect complement.

Soy Sauce - Savory and salty, it’s a great item to add to marinades, dipping sauces and dressing alike.  Perk up broiled fish and steamed vegetables in an instant.  It lasts forever if kept in the refrigerator.

Bacon and Pancetta - Bacon makes everything better, simple as that.  If you’re not going to use the whole package of bacon or pancetta within a few days, freeze it in small batches so you can just take out what you need.