5 Healthy Winter Recipes Using Foodbank Ingredients

Winter can be a challenging time for many families because of cold weather and tighter budgets. Maintaining a healthy diet during winter can feel overwhelming, especially when fresh produce is more expensive and less readily available. 

The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore helps families have access to nutritious ingredients that make preparing healthy, budget-friendly meals possible. Through our many mobile food pantry and food distribution programs, the Foodbank ensures that families in need can enjoy hearty, wholesome recipes without breaking the bank.

This blog features five simple and affordable food pantry recipes using ingredients you could receive straight from the Foodbank. From nutrient-packed breakfasts to hearty soups, these recipes turn food pantry ingredients into delicious, balanced meals your entire family will enjoy.

The Impact of Foodbank Ingredients 

Canned vegetables, whole grains, beans, and other staples distributed by the Foodbank are incredibly versatile, helping families build well-rounded meals despite limited resources.

By combining pantry staples with a little creativity, you can transform these ingredients into food pantry meals that are nourishing, delicious, and perfect for winter.

5 Affordable & Healthy Winter Recipes 

Oatmeal with Fruit and Nuts 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup of rolled oats 
  • 2 cups of water or milk (dairy or plant-based) 
  • 1/2 cup of canned or dried fruit (e.g., raisins, figs, or peaches) 
  • 1/4 cup of nuts or seeds (e.g., sunflower seeds or walnuts) 

Instructions: 

  1. Bring water or milk to a boil in a pot. 
  2. Stir in oats and reduce heat to a simmer until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). 
  3. Top with canned or dried fruit and nuts for added texture and flavor. 
  4. Serve and enjoy! 

Notes: Oatmeal is a powerhouse breakfast option that’s rich in fiber, keeping your family feeling full and energized all morning long. 

Hearty Vegetable Soup 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cans of mixed vegetables (including carrots, peas, and green beans) 
  • 1 can of beans (e.g., kidney or cannellini beans), drained and rinsed 
  • 4 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth 
  • 1 cup of rice or whole-grain pasta 
  • 2 teaspoons of garlic powder 
  • 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (e.g., thyme or oregano)

Instructions: 

  1. Combine broth and canned vegetables in a large pot and bring to a simmer. 
  2. Stir in the beans, garlic powder, and herbs. 
  3. Add rice or pasta and cook until tender (about 10–15 minutes). 
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. 
  5. Serve warm with whole-grain bread, if available! 

Notes: This comforting soup is packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins — perfect for fueling your family on cold evenings.

Robust Chili

Ingredients: 

  • 1 can of black beans (or any beans), drained and rinsed 
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes 
  • 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder 
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin 
  • 1 pound of ground turkey (or an additional can of beans if unavailable) 
  • 1 small onion (optional), diced

Instructions: 

  1. If using ground turkey, cook in a large pan over medium heat until browned. Add diced onion during the last couple of minutes for flavor if available. 
  2. Add beans, tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. 
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. 
  4. Serve with whole-grain crackers or over rice for a filling meal. 

Notes: Chili is high in protein and easy to prepare, making it one of our go-to food pantry recipes for warming up during winter. Bonus? It’s versatile! Feel free to tweak the seasonings to suit your family’s preferences. 

Stuffed Peppers with Rice and Beans 

Ingredients: 

  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded 
  • 2 cups of cooked rice 
  • 1 can of black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed 
  • 1/2 cup of tomato sauce 
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder 

Instructions: 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. 
  2. Mix cooked rice, beans, tomato sauce, and chili powder together in a bowl. 
  3. Fill each pepper half with the rice and bean mixture. 
  4. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until peppers are tender. 
  5. Serve immediately. 

Notes: This colorful and nutrient-dense food pantry meal is as visually appealing as it is tasty. Plus, the filling is endlessly customizable based on what you have on hand! 

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 
  • 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed 
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin 
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder 
  • Tortillas 

Instructions: 

  1. Roast diced sweet potatoes at 400°F for 20 minutes or until tender. 
  2. Heat black beans in a small pot with cumin and chili powder. 
  3. Assemble tacos by layering sweet potatoes and black beans on tortillas.

Notes: These tacos are fun, flavorful, and nutritious, offering a satisfying plant-based meal option for the whole family. If available, you can add shredded cheese, salsa, or sour cream.. 

Supporting The Foodbank’s Mission

The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore’s mission is to ensure every family has access to healthy, affordable food pantry meals. Here are a few ways you can support us in the fight to end hunger: 

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