16 Foods That Are Actually Better Canned

Who said fresh was always the best option?

Canned foods often get ignored. Sometimes they sit in the kitchen cabinet or on the pantry shelf collecting dust until the next food drive. This is because many people automatically think purchasing fresh or frozen foods is far superior. Well, think again. Here are 16 foods that are actually better canned.

When it comes to canned beans, the possibilities are endless. Black beans, chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans), kidney beans, cannellini beans, navy beans, pinto beans, refried beans, and red kidney beans. As we said, endless.

Dried beans can take a lot of time to soak before you can prepare them, so save yourself some time by opting for canned beans instead. Canned beans work well in various recipes including baked desserts like brownies, burrito bowls, casseroles, chilis, homemade dips, meat dishes, salads, salsas, soups, stews, and of course, tacos.

If you enjoy beets, but do not like the process of preparing them (and let's not forget the pink/purple color that can ruin clothing), snag a can of canned beets. Enjoy them on their own as a snack, or include them on top of a sandwich or salad.

Coconut milk is a plant-based option and makes for a great dairy-free substitute in many recipes. It adds a layer of creaminess to coffee, desserts, dips, marinades, oatmeals, sauces, smoothies, and soups.

Whether you enjoy baby corn or corn off the cob, canned corn varieties are delicious additions to meals. Enjoy all on its own as a side dish or add to burritos, salsas, and tacos. Baby corn pairs best as a salad topping or in soups or stir-fries. You can even enjoy baby corn as a snack.

Canned diced chili or bell peppers pack great flavor and work well as a garnish in multiple dishes. Add canned chili or bell peppers to burgers, chilies, eggs, frittatas, sandwiches, salsas, scrambles, and stir-fries.

Canned diced tomatoes are not only delicious and nutritious, but they are also a crucial ingredient in a number of recipes, especially staples like burrito bowls, casseroles, dips, flatbreads, lasagnas, nachos, pasta, pizzas, salsas, soups, and tacos.

If you're on a budget or want to save a few dollars, skip the fresh fish and meat counter at the grocery store and opt for canned meat instead. Canned fish and meats like anchovies, chicken, salmon, sardines, and tuna are all great canned protein options that can easily be transformed into a delicious meal or snack without breaking the bank. Use canned fish and meats in recipes for dips, quesadillas, pasta, salads, soups, and stovetop patties. You can even whip up a bowl of homemade chicken salad or tuna salad, perfect for sandwiches and snacks.

Jackfruit is another food that is actually better canned. It is a perfect plant-based substitute for recipes that call for animal protein. Try recipes like BBQ jackfruit pulled pork, jackfruit "chicken" pizza, or jackfruit "chicken" salad.

There is no need to deal with all of that peeling from fresh fruit when you can purchase canned mandarin oranges. Naturally sweet and tangy, canned mandarin oranges can be enjoyed straight out of the can or in baked goods. You can also add them to cottage cheese, salads, or yogurt for a subtly sweet topping.

If you are all about those after-work martinis, you will want to stock up on canned olives. Besides beverages, canned olives can also be enjoyed in handcrafted hummus and tapenades or as an ingredient in flatbreads, pizzas, salads, and sandwiches. You can also include canned olives on a homemade charcuterie board for a salty addition to any spread.

Even if it is not fresh peach picking season, you can still enjoy their sweet taste by grabbing a can (or two) of peaches instead. Peaches are a great snack on their own or pair well with other fruits to make a beautiful fruit cocktail for a sweet dessert or side dish to accompany any meal.

Waiting for fresh pears to ripen can take forever and if you want to enjoy one sooner opt for canned pears instead. Enjoy them on their own or add them to baked goods, dessert, or a homemade fruit salad.

Canned peas are a blank slate and pair perfectly with a subtly sweet flavor, which is why canned peas and carrots go together like well, peas and carrots. Perfect for a dinner-time side dish that goes well with any main entree.

Channel the islands of the tropics and pretend you are on a beach vacation when you crack open a can of pineapple. Choose from crushed pineapple, diced pineapple, or pineapple rings. Perfect for a snack or add to homemade baked goods and recipes.

Canned pumpkin purée brings autumnal aromas to your cooking all year long. Besides using canned pumpkin in pumpkin bread, canned pumpkin can add a creamy texture to homemade mousse, pasta, pudding, sauces, smoothies, and soups. You can even add them to breakfast favorites like French toast, pancakes, and waffles.

Canned water chestnuts add an irresistible crunch and texture to dishes, particularly Asian-inspired ones. Think of dishes like fried rice or stir-fries.

Ashley Martens is a Wellness Writer based in Chicago, Illinois. With a digital marketing background and her knowledge of general nutrition and a lifelong passion for all things health and wellness, Ashley covers topics that can help people live happier and healthier lives.

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