10 non-perishable items every kitchen should be stocked with

A well-stocked kitchen makes cooking easier, faster, and more enjoyable.

When you have the right ingredients on hand, you can whip up meals without last-minute grocery runs or stress.

Non-perishable items are especially important because they last for months—or even years—without spoiling.

They’re the foundation of a versatile pantry, ready to support everything from quick weeknight dinners to creative weekend recipes.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, these essentials can help you stay prepared.

The best part?

Every item on this list is vegan-friendly, so you can cook with confidence knowing you’re making choices that align with a plant-based lifestyle.

Here are ten non-perishable staples every kitchen should have.

1. Canned beans

Canned beans are a powerhouse ingredient for any kitchen.

They’re packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them perfect for hearty meals.

Black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, and cannellini beans are all excellent options to keep on hand.

They can be used in soups, stews, salads, tacos, or even mashed into spreads like hummus.

Canned beans are ready to use—just rinse and drain to reduce sodium and improve texture.

They’re affordable, versatile, and filling, making them a top pantry essential.

Whether you’re throwing together a quick burrito bowl or making a slow-cooked chili, beans save time and effort.

Stock a variety to give yourself endless flavor combinations.

2. Rice

Rice is a classic pantry staple that pairs with nearly everything.

It’s affordable, long-lasting, and available in many varieties like jasmine, basmati, brown, or wild rice.

Brown rice offers more fiber and nutrients, while white rice cooks faster and has a softer texture.

Rice can serve as the base for grain bowls, stir-fries, curries, or even desserts like rice pudding.

It’s an excellent way to stretch meals while keeping them hearty and satisfying.

Cook a large batch at once and use leftovers throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Stored properly in a cool, dry place, rice can last for months or even years.

It’s one of the most reliable staples you can keep in your kitchen.

3. Lentils

Lentils are another plant-based protein source that deserve a permanent spot in your pantry.

They cook quickly compared to other dried legumes, making them perfect for fast, nutritious meals.

Green, brown, and black lentils hold their shape well, while red lentils cook down into a creamy texture.

This makes them versatile for soups, stews, salads, and dips.

They’re also rich in iron, fiber, and essential minerals, supporting a balanced diet.

Unlike canned beans, dried lentils don’t require soaking—just rinse and simmer until tender.

They’re budget-friendly and lightweight, ideal for stocking up in bulk.

A jar of lentils ensures you’ll always have a foundation for a healthy meal.

4. Pasta

Pasta is a go-to ingredient for quick, satisfying meals.

It has a long shelf life and cooks in minutes, making it ideal for busy days.

There are countless shapes to choose from, including spaghetti, penne, fusilli, and shells.

Many stores also offer whole-grain or gluten-free varieties made from lentils, chickpeas, or quinoa.

Pair pasta with canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil for a simple, comforting dish.

Add vegetables or plant-based protein for a complete meal.

Because it’s so versatile, pasta is perfect for experimenting with different flavors and sauces.

It’s a pantry staple you’ll reach for again and again.

5. Canned tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are the backbone of countless recipes.

They’re perfect for making soups, stews, curries, and pasta sauces.

Crushed, diced, or whole peeled tomatoes each offer slightly different textures and uses.

Tomato paste is also handy for adding depth and richness to dishes.

These products are harvested at peak ripeness, ensuring consistent flavor year-round.

They eliminate the need to rely on fresh tomatoes, which can spoil quickly.

With just a can of tomatoes and a few spices, you can create a hearty, flavorful base for many meals.

They’re a must-have for quick, reliable cooking.

6. Nut butter

Nut butters like peanut, almond, or cashew butter are nutrient-dense and versatile.

They’re packed with healthy fats, protein, and calories, making them a great source of energy.

Spread nut butter on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or blend it into smoothies for extra richness.

It also works well in savory dishes like peanut sauces, salad dressings, and stir-fries.

Because it’s shelf-stable, you can store it for months without worry.

Choose natural nut butters with minimal added sugar or oil for the healthiest option.

They’re an easy way to add flavor and nutrition to both sweet and savory meals.

A jar of nut butter is like having a little bit of comfort food ready at all times.

7. Rolled oats

Rolled oats are inexpensive, filling, and incredibly versatile.

They’re the star ingredient in classic breakfasts like oatmeal and overnight oats.

But they also work well in baking, energy bars, and even savory dishes like veggie burgers.

Oats are high in fiber and help support steady energy throughout the day.

They store well in airtight containers and last for months, making them a reliable pantry item.

For variety, consider stocking quick oats for speedy breakfasts and old-fashioned oats for heartier recipes.

You can even blend them into flour for gluten-free baking.

They’re a simple staple that packs a nutritional punch.

8. Canned coconut milk

Canned coconut milk is a must-have for creamy, flavorful plant-based cooking.

It’s the base for many curries, soups, and desserts.

Its rich texture and natural sweetness make it perfect for both savory and sweet recipes.

Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess, while light coconut milk offers a lower-calorie option.

It’s shelf-stable and lasts for months, making it easy to keep on hand.

Shake the can before opening to ensure a smooth consistency.

Use it to elevate simple dishes like rice, oatmeal, or smoothies.

It’s a vegan-friendly alternative to dairy that brings richness to any meal.

9. Vegetable broth or bouillon cubes

Having a flavorful base on hand makes cooking easier and tastier.

Shelf-stable vegetable broth or bouillon cubes allow you to add depth to soups, grains, and sauces.

They’re especially useful when fresh vegetables aren’t available.

Bouillon cubes take up very little space and can be dissolved in hot water instantly.

Look for low-sodium or organic options for a cleaner flavor.

These products help you create complex, savory dishes without relying on animal-based stocks.

A single carton or jar of cubes can transform a simple meal into something satisfying.

It’s one of the most efficient tools for plant-based cooking.

10. Shelf-stable plant milk

Plant-based milks like almond, oat, soy, or coconut are essential for vegan kitchens.

When purchased in shelf-stable cartons, they don’t require refrigeration until opened.

This makes them perfect for stocking up and reducing waste.

Use them in baking, smoothies, coffee, or savory dishes like creamy soups and sauces.

Different varieties bring different flavors and nutritional profiles.

Soy milk is higher in protein, while oat milk offers a naturally sweet, creamy texture.

Keeping a few cartons on hand ensures you’ll never run out when a recipe calls for it.

It’s a flexible, reliable substitute for dairy in everyday cooking.

Final thoughts: building a plant-based pantry

A well-stocked pantry isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating freedom in the kitchen.

These vegan-friendly, non-perishable staples allow you to cook nutritious, satisfying meals anytime.

With the right ingredients, you can adapt recipes, save money, and reduce stress around meal planning.

They also help you stay consistent with your values by keeping plant-based options readily available.

Even on the busiest days, you’ll have everything you need to nourish yourself and others.

Stocking these essentials is a small step with a big impact on your daily life.