This recipe calls for a bag of frozen vegetables. Mixed frozen vegetables are real timesavers since theyre already prepped and ready for the pan. Furthermore, they help reduce food waste because you dont have to worry about them going bad. It can be tricky to cook them just right, however, as they are easily overcooked and can turn to mush. If youre not yet convinced about frozen, feel free to use your favorite combination of fresh vegetables in this stir-fry.

A bag of dried lentils will feed you for many meals. Like dried beans, theyre very economical but with the added benefit that they do not need to be presoaked. That makes them great for a last-minute dinner when you dont have anything planned. This deliciously creamy lentil curry features chunks of eggplant, which help create a filling main dish, thanks to their fleshy texture. Serve this curry alone or over rice, with naan or bread on the side for sopping up the last bits out of your bowl.

Autumn just might be my favorite season, as theres nothing more delicious and versatile than a winter squash. Filled with hearty barley and squash, roasted to enhance its sweetness, this autumn harvest salad is abundant and filling enough for a stand-alone main meal or as a side dish for a special occasion.