We've all been there. We swore we'd eat healthy and cook dinner 5 nights a week. Then BOOM - the craving for greasy Indian takeout hit us, and down went our New Year's resolutions, just like the wilting spinach in our fridge.

With these 6 pantry staples, you'll find yourself becoming ridiculously healthier in no time.

1. Curry paste

Curry paste is here to save you from those mischievous cravings! Before you can reach for the Indian takeout menu, quickly simmer curry paste with rice, veggies, or beans. In just a few minutes, you have yourself a flavourful, satisfying homemade meal.

Be sure to choose a good quality, 100% natural curry paste with NO preservatives, hydrogenated oil, or ingredients you can't pronounce. 

2. Nut butters

Source: New World Foods

Put 'em in smoothies, put 'em in quick sandwiches, and put 'em in baking for a nutty protein boost. Nut butters make life SO easy.

Always have a variety in your pantry to keep things interesting. We like to have a mix of:

• a classic natural almond butter (for sandwiches)
• a cashew butter or hazelnut butter (for ridiculously healthy baking)
• a coconut peanut butter or dark chocolate peanut butter (for life-changing smoothies)

3. Flax (cold milled)

Source: World of Moms

Getting your plant-based source of omega-3 was never easier! Add flax to your smoothies, yogurt, and baking for an easy boost of fibre and essential healthy fats. Flax even makes your smoothies nice n' thick without adding icky taste or excessive calories/sugar.

Choose cold milled flax (instead of regular ground flax or whole flax seeds) to ensure the nutrients are retained and easily absorbed.

4. Nutritional yeast

Source: Vegan Yumminess

This magical ingredient is here to rock your world! It may not sound sexy, but it adds incredible cheezy flavour to pasta, popcorn, grains, and stews. Best of all, nutritional yeast is a plant-based source of protein and vitamin B12 which will totally get you crushing those healthy eating goals. Get yours online here.

5. Quality oils

Not just any oil, but quality oils that nourish you with omega-3 or omega-9 healthy fats instead of empty calories. Aim for one with a high smoke point as well as one that is suitable for drizzling onto salads, pasta, and vegetables.

We like to always have:

• an organic, naturally refined coconut oil (for high heat cooking and baking)
• an extra virgin macadamia oil or avocado oil (for drizzling and adding delicious nutty flavour)

6. Healthy snacks

Let's be real. You're human, and sometimes your sweet tooth will strike. Prepare for those cravings by stocking up on healthier snacks such as:

• organic dried fruits
• vegan dark chocolate nuts
• bliss balls (gluten free, superfood truffles made with chocolate, nuts and more)
• organic granola (choose those with low sodium and high fibre)
• healthier "nutella" (trust me, you NEED this)

So what are you waiting for? Your healthy future is waiting for you in your pantry. Start shopping healthy now. You can do it!

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Post written by: Emily Chen