What's in My Fridge: The Essentials, How I Use Them, and Best Brands
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Hi friends!
You might be curious about what's in my fridge! It's like a treasure chest of my favorite ingredients, all chosen to support my health and fit my lifestyle. What we eat impacts how we feel, so I've put together a selection that I always keep stocked. From colorful veggies to wholesome proteins, each item plays a role in my meals. I'm excited to share what I have, why I love these choices, and how I use them in everyday cooking. Plus, I'll let you know the brands I trust for quality and taste. There's plenty to discover, and I hope it sparks some ideas for your fridge!
Dairy and Cheese
Grass-Fed Milk
I always keep grass-fed milk in my fridge, and if I can get my hands on A2 milk, even better! The nutritional benefits are just amazing compared to conventional milk. I use it in everything from morning smoothies to baked treats, savory dishes, and my morning tea.
My favorite brands are Organic Valley Grassmilk and The A2 Milk Company because they source their milk from grass-fed cows year-round. Plus, I love that I'm supporting healthier farming practices.
Fresh Cream & Cream Cheese
Fresh cream is a must-have in my kitchen. It elevates my soups and sauces, adding an irresistibly rich, velvety texture. And let's talk about coffee or tea! A splash of fresh cream transforms an ordinary cup into a luxurious treat. I always grab Organic Valley or Horizon Organic for the best flavor.
Another staple in my fridge is cream cheese. It's so versatile! Whether whipping up dips, spreading it on bagels, or adding it to baked goods, it always adds that creamy, tangy goodness. I'm a big fan of plain or veggie Tillamook Cream Cheese for its smooth consistency and classic taste, which never disappoints. But when I'm feeling adventurous, Tillamook's Jalapeno Honey cream cheese is my go-to. It adds a delightful kick that elevates any dish! If you haven't tried it yet, you're seriously missing out!
Grass-Fed Butter
Grass-fed butter is a nutrient-dense, flavorful fat option. It’s made from cows that graze on pasture, which results in a butter that’s higher in healthy fats and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid). Use it for cooking, baking, or spreading on toast for a rich, creamy taste.
Sour Cream
I always make sure to keep a tub of sour cream in my fridge and let me tell you, it's such a versatile ingredient! I love using it in a variety of dishes. It's perfect for topping off tacos, adding a creamy richness to baked potatoes, and even elevates scrambled eggs when mixed in! I love Breakstone's Sour Cream. Not only is it organic and rich in flavor, but it's also free from those pesky additives you find in many other brands. Plus, it's a fantastic source of calcium.
Greek Yogurt (Full-Fat, Plain)
One of my absolute kitchen staples has to be full-fat, plain Greek yogurt. Not only is it packed with protein, probiotics, and calcium, but it also helps with digestion, which is a huge plus. I love throwing it into my morning smoothies for that creamy texture. But that's not all! It also makes an excellent base for dressings, allowing you to whip up something delicious and healthy in no time. And when I'm craving something simple, there's nothing better than a bowl of Greek yogurt drizzled with a bit of honey and topped with fresh fruit. My go-to brand has to be Stonyfield Organic Greek yogurt. The thick, creamy texture is perfect, and I love knowing I'm getting a good source of protein.
Cottage Cheese
I've been thinking about how underrated cottage cheese is! It's packed with protein and calcium, and I love adding it to mac and cheese or pasta for that extra macro boost without losing any flavor.
If you haven't tried Good Culture cottage cheese yet, you're missing out! It's super rich and creamy and contains probiotics that are fantastic for gut health. And the best part? It's made from organic milk, so you know it's a quality choice.
What I love about cottage cheese is its versatility. You can use it in savory dishes like lasagna or even sweet ones like cheesecake! So, next time you're cooking, try it. I promise you'll be pleasantly surprised by how delicious and versatile it is!
Various Cheeses:
You all know how much I love experimenting with flavors in my cooking, and cheese is usually the star of the show! I keep a variety of versatile cheeses on hand that are bursting with flavor. For fresh salads and Mediterranean dishes, feta cheese is a must-have. I usually grab Mt. Vikos feta.
Taste of Inspirations's pepper jack is my go-to if I want a bit of spice. It's fantastic in sandwiches or paired with crunchy crackers for a quick snack. Then there's Colby Jack—it's mild but melts beautifully, making it perfect for quesadillas, burgers, or just enjoying straight from the fridge. I usually get the store-brand version.
Let's talk mozzarella! I can't get enough of it for pizzas and salads, its creamy richness is unbeatable. My top choice is BelGioioso mozzarella—it is incredibly flavorful and elevates whatever I make. Mascarpone is my secret weapon for desserts and creamy sauces when I want to indulge. Once again, BelGioioso hits it out of the park with its luxurious texture. And let's not forget ricotta; it's a game-changer in savory dishes like lasagna and sweet treats like cannoli. I love the creamy texture and clean flavor of BelGioioso ricotta—it truly enhances every dish.
For heartwarming dishes like French onion soup, Emmi Gruyere is my trusted cheese. Trust me, incorporating these cheeses can transform your meals from good to absolutely amazing! What are your favorite cheeses to cook with?
Proteins
Grass-Fed Beef
One of my favorite sources of protein is grass-fed beef! There's something truly special about meat raised on pasture—it tastes incredible and packs a nutritional punch. Grass-fed beef is loaded with fatty acids and has fewer inflammatory fats than conventional beef, which is a big win for my health.
If you're looking for high-quality options, check out Nature's Promise and Verde Farms. They prioritize quality and offer meat that's both hormone-free and antibiotic-free, with ethical farming practices to boot. Trust me, once you try their beef, you'll taste the difference and feel better knowing you're fueling your body with nutrient-rich, ethically raised meat. What's not to love?
Bacon
Whenever I'm in the mood for something savory, I can't help but reach for bacon—I'm a fiend! Whether I'm tossing it into a crisp salad, enjoying it at breakfast, or using it as a delicious topping for various dishes, bacon seems to elevate everything it touches. Lately, I've been loving Nature's Promise bacon. What I appreciate most is that it's free of nitrates and artificial preservatives, so I don't have to worry about added chemicals. Bacon has this magical way of taking a dish from good to unforgettable.
Bone Broth
I always try to keep a batch of homemade bone broth ready in my fridge because of its incredible nourishing properties. It's packed with collagen, which does wonders for my joints, skin, and overall digestion. I love using it as a base for hearty soups or just sipping it as a warm, comforting drink. It feels like a hug in a mug!
If I don't have time to make bone broth or wait for it to be ready, I substitute Kettle & Fire bone broth. It's my absolute favorite premade broth because it uses only organic ingredients and follows a slow-simmering process. The nutrients are extracted beautifully, giving me the purest flavor and benefits. Knowing I'm nourishing my body while enjoying a delicious sip makes it all the more satisfying.
Pasture-Raised Eggs
Pasture-raised eggs are a fridge staple packed with nutrients and a rich, flavorful taste. These eggs come from hens that are allowed to roam freely, resulting in higher levels of omega-3s and vitamins compared to conventional eggs. Use them for anything from scrambled eggs and omelets to baking or adding to salads for extra protein.
Vegetables
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes
You know what I adore? Cherry tomatoes—specifically, the AngelSweet variety! They're not just your average tomatoes but sweet, flavorful little gems that can brighten any dish. I love to roast them to bring out their natural sweetness, whether tossing them with pasta or serving them as a delightful side dish. They add such a vibrant pop of color and taste! Plus, they're one of the lowest nickel tomatoes (along with tomatillos), which is a bonus for those who need to watch their nickel intake.
Carrots
Carrots are truly a refrigerator staple, and I can't imagine my kitchen without them! I use them in everything from refreshing juices to hearty roasted dishes and vibrant salads. They're perfect for snacking on, too, especially dipped in some creamy ranch dressing. I've found that Bolthouse Farms carrots are my absolute favorite; they consistently stand out in quality and freshness. Honestly, there's something so satisfying about crunching into a crisp, sweet carrot. Plus, they're packed with nutrients! Have you tried them in your smoothies?
Condiments and Sauces
Sauces and Dips:
You may not need to keep all of these refrigerated, but I prefer to do so for space-saving reasons, or I prefer them cold, lol. To start, you know me—I can never have enough hot sauces! I love keeping a variety on hand, especially artisan ones from local producers, whenever I can find them. Each sauce brings its own unique level of spice and flavor, making it perfect for everything from tacos and stir-fries to dipping snacks.
For a healthier twist on classic condiments, I swear by True Made Foods Ketchup, which sneaks in hidden veggies—how cool is that? Their Honey Mustard is my ultimate go-to for sandwiches, while Woodstock Organic Dijon Mustard adds the perfect kick to dressings and sauces.
When it comes to dips, Amy's Organic Salsa Verde is a must-have for tacos or chips on movie night. Primal Kitchen has incredible Caesar, ranch (and buffalo ranch!), and their special sauce, which truly elevates any meal. And let's not forget Yo Mama's BBQ Sauce—it's packed with wholesome ingredients and has an irresistible smoky flavor that layers on the taste!
Lemon and Lime Juice
Lemon and lime juice are indispensable staples in my fridge for adding a zesty burst of flavor to all sorts of dishes, drinks, and marinades. I always try to buy fresh when possible because there's nothing quite like that vibrant taste, but I also love the convenience of Santa Cruz Organic. They provide fantastic bottled options that deliver!
Sweet Treats and Beverages
Sweet Loren's Cookie Dough
When craving a sweet treat, Sweet Loren's Cookie Dough is undoubtedly my favorite go-to. It's made with cleaner, high-quality ingredients, and I love how easy it is to bake delicious cookies in just minutes. It's perfect for a quick dessert fix, whether I have friends over or want something special to enjoy while binge-watching my favorite shows!
Mexican Coke
For a truly refreshing beverage, Mexican Coke is my favorite go-to. Unlike the regular version, it's made with real cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup, which makes a noticeable taste difference. It's just so much richer and more authentic! I always keep a couple of bottles in the fridge when I'm craving something sweet and fizzy!
Gelatin-Based Desserts and Applesauce
I also love to keep gelatin-based desserts and applesauce on hand for a light, sweet snack or quick dessert. They're perfect when I'm craving something comforting but don't want to overindulge. It's such a simple way to satisfy my sweet tooth without feeling guilty, plus they're super easy to grab and enjoy anytime!
Lemonade
Lemonade and orange juice are also staple drinks in my fridge, especially during those warm, sun-soaked months. They're just so refreshing and go well with so many meals! I always choose Santa Cruz Organic Lemonade and Uncle Matt's Orange Juice because they're made with simple, organic ingredients I can feel good about. It's like having a little burst of sunshine in a glass!
I just wanted to wrap things up by sharing my go-to items. You can check out my grocery list on Instacart here!
I'd love to hear from you—what are your must-haves? Do you have any tips or tricks that make your life easier in the kitchen? Drop a comment below or tag me on social media! Don't forget to sign up for our free monthly newsletter for more delicious insights!
Let's keep the conversation going! What's one staple you can't live without?
