In the Refrigerator

Eggs and egg substitutes are a must to have on hand at all times. They are one of the most versatile and useful ingredients in your kitchen.

Important dairy products to stock in your refrigerator include margarine, low-fat or fat-free sour cream and fat-free plain yogurt. Low-fat, skim or 1 percent milk is another ingredient that is important to have on hand.

A fresh lemon and a fresh lime, orange juice, applesauce and apple juice can be used to enhance flavor or add sweetness.

Carrots and bagged salads are the two packaged convenience foods that can be worth the extra cost. Whole, peeled baby carrots and matchstick carrots cost a little more than buying them and cutting them yourself, but you will save time and perhaps eat more carrots. You will always have them ready to be tossed into a simmering dish or salad to add color and flavor.

Bagged salad is another convenience that is worth paying for -- but skip the ones that come with prepared dressings. When all you have to do to make a salad is pull a handful out of the bag and add embellishments, the whole family will be far more likely to eat their greens more often.