ROUGH ROAD: It’s getting tricky out here. Navigating the economic conditions right now is challenging for many families in the area. A few ways to combat the struggle is to have a well stocked pantry.

Why? Because having a well-stocked pantry leads to less stress when it comes to mealtimes. Stocking the pantry is not a must-do-now project. It is a gradual build. Over time (not too much time), add the items from the list below to the storage and then when needed, everything will be within reach.

According to Spruce Eats, there is an essentials list, but if your family does not, or will not, eat the food on the list, do not buy or store that item. Major categories include carbs, cooking oils, dried legumes, baking supplies, canned and jarred goods, seasonings, drinks, and snacks.

As your pantry stores grow, so will the recipes you will be able to make, without having to run back out to the grocery or big box store.

Easy items to begin with are pasta, canned tomatoes, and canned beans. These three items are the beginnings of a delicious meal — Easy Cheesy Pasta and Bean Casserole, from Bush’s Beans.

Ingredients

1 16-ounce package penne pasta

1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes

2 16-ounce cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 26-ounce jar spaghetti sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and return to saucepan.

Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and spaghetti sauce. Transfer to 2-quart baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella.

Bake until cheese is melted and golden, about 40 minutes.