Have you ever tried to stretch a meal when guests arrive unexpectedly at dinnertime? According to a book published by Better Homes and Gardens magazine, anyone can whip up a meal fit for a king, provided that they have these staples in their pantry at all times:

  1. pasta sauce
  2. dried pasta
  3. frozen vegetables
  4. salad dressing, including
    one vinaigrette dressing
  5. mixed salad greens
  6. frozen meatballs
  7. russet potatoes
  8. frozen fish fillets
  9. chicken breast halves
  10. pork chops

Source: Better Homes and Gardens Supermarket Shortcuts (Wiley).