Ideas About What To Have On Hand In The Pantry If Guests Arrive Unannounced - food/drinks

Food:

1. Crackers or crispbreads

2. Canned beans (e.g., chickpeas, black beans)

3. Canned tuna or salmon or pate

4. Jarred olives or pickles

5. Nuts (e.g., almonds, cashews)

6. Dried fruit (e.g., apricots, raisins)

7. Popcorn kernels

8. Rice or quinoa

9. Pasta and jarred pasta sauce

10. Instant noodles or ramen

11. Canned soup or broth

12. Canned tomatoes

13. Shelf-stable sauces (e.g., soy sauce, hot sauce)

14. Shelf-stable cheese (e.g., Parmesan, feta)

15. Crackers or breadsticks

16. Bread or rolls (store in the freezer)

17. Biscuits or cookies

18. Chocolate bars or candies

19. An instant pot to cook meat fast!

Drinks:

1. Coffee (ground or instant)

2. Tea bags (various flavors)

3. Hot chocolate mix

4. Bottled water or sparkling water

5. Shelf-stable juice boxes or pouches

6. Soda or soft drinks

7. Wine (keep a couple of bottles on hand)

8. Alcohol free (family friendly) Beer or cider (if you enjoy them)

9. Frozen fruit to make smoothies

10. Mixers (e.g., tonic water, soda water)

With these pantry staples on hand, you can quickly whip up snacks or meals for unexpected guests and offer a variety of drinks to suit their preferences. I find it unusually exciting and satisfying when I have been able to create an impulsive meal for unplanned guests. There have been times when we have been in an extra social season (Example: when we are pastoring), and it was fun to prepare for this kind of unexpected event. Keep the concept in mind when you

When you are prepared, you can offer an impulsive invitation for people to come over and socialize in your home. (Example: after church, if someone is "in the neighborhood", and wants to stop by, if your kids ask if their friends can come over or stay for dinner, if you run into someone, or have a last minute desire to have company over). It's great to prepare so you can be prepared when it matters.