5 Foods You Should Always Have in Your Fridge

SHAPE magazine
Almonds
Almonds

It's midnight and your dinner seems like a distant memory. It's much easier to keep your late-night nibbles low in calories if you have a few healthy ingredients on hand. Stock these 10 foods in your fridge at all times so you'll always be ready to whip up a guilt-free meal or snack. No excuses!

1. Almonds: A handful of raw almonds offer a wholesome alternative to greasy, crunchy snacks (read: potato chips and buttery crackers). But the sweet nuts also make a great addition to smoothies, cereals , and nonfat yogurt. Chuck your almonds (or other healthy nut) into the fridge to prevent its natural oils from oxidation, as oxidized oils have harmful free radicals.

2. Whole-wheat tortillas: Most of the carbs in whole-wheat tortillas are complex carbs, so you don't have to worry about a spike in blood sugar levels. If you're in a savory mood, sprinkle low-fat shredded cheese over a tortilla and toast for a deliciously melty snack. If you're craving something sweet, indulge in a toasted tortilla drizzled with agave syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

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3. Bananas: Sweet and satiating, bananas are a nutrient powerhouse abundant in potassium and fiber. Bananas are best eaten on their own, but you can concoct a million quick and simple snacks with the creamy yellow fruit. Slice a banana over oatmeal or dip slices in almond butter for a flavor-packed, healthy bite.

4. Miso:Miso , a fermented soybean paste popular in Japan, may be an unexpected item to store in your fridge, but you'll get tons of use out of this immunity-boosting spread. Mixed with hot water, the zinc-loaded paste dissolves into a tasty soup. Blended with other ingredients, it transforms into a full-flavored marinade for fish and meat entrees or a yummy salad dressing over leafy greens. Just be sure to choose a low-sodium variety at the grocery store.

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5. Eggs: Protein-packed eggs are one of Mother Nature's most versatile low-cal foods. One large egg costs you approximately 75 calories, though various ways of cooking it will change the total. Keep a dozen in your fridge and use these easy egg ideas when you're stumped at supper or snack time .

What do you think? What foods are always in your fridge?

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