​www.msn.com/en-ca/foodanddrink/tipsandtricks/10-frozen-foods-you-should-always-have-on-hand-and-why/ss-BBKtEyF?li=AAggsmr&ocid=mailsignout#image=2

I found this article this morning and wanted to share it with you guys because they offer some great tips on what to have in your freezer at all times. Although there were a few I was unaware of or didn't do myself, most of the list is super handy and great advice. Here's a quick list of what they suggested having and what I always have on hand!

• FROZEN PEAS - Easy to add in to any dish as they thaw quite quickly. They also add protein and fibre with just a 1/2 cup serving.
• WHOLE GRAIN BREAD / SPROUTED BREAD
• SPINACH
• FROZEN BANANAS / BERRIES - Frozen fruit is perfect for smoothies because they retain all of their nutritional value through being flash frozen at their prime. Also, the frozen fruit will ensure your smoothie is nice and cold for your drinking pleasure!
• SPIRALIZED VEGGIES
• NUTS - Interestingly, the article suggests storing your nuts in the freezer. They will retain all of their nutritional value for a significantly longer time than if kept at room temperature.
• PESTO / HERBS
• PRE COOKED GRAINS / BEANS - I've always said, if you're cooking dried beans, cook the entire bag and freeze what you don't need. It's so easy to snatch a bag of beans out of the freezer to add to your meal and with it, loads of protein and fibre!
• PRE-MADE MEALS - Always make more than what you need so that you can freeze leftovers for a rainy day. Soups, sauces, stews, and other dishes are great for freezing and taking out on a busy day for a quick and easy meal.

Their list is great but I want to elaborate on a few things!

For as long as I've been cooking, I've always thought a sprinkling of something green and fresh was the perfect way to finish off a dish. Whether it's parsley, cilantro, basil, or something else, that pop of freshness is always a wonderful way to finish off a dish. Herbs are extremely flavourful but did you guys know that they were extremely good for you as well?

I know I've promoted parsley to y'all before as much more than a garnish but the fact is, most herbs are nutritious and full of antioxidants and vitamins beneficial to our bodies. Here's a little breakdown of what you can expect from some of the more popular herbs used in everyday cooking.