Eat Filling Family Favorites

Two parents helping young child mix ingredients in a bowl.

We know that working more fruits and vegetables into your go-to meals isn’t always possible. But you don’t have to give up your favorite foods. We rounded up some ways to help without adding extra time, cost, or energy.

Canned and Frozen Vegetables Bring More to the Table

Keeping produce fresh can be hard. Thankfully, canned and frozen varieties add just as much to your plate.

Here’s what we love about using canned and frozen produce.

Man pouring mix of fresh vegetables into frying pan, closeup.

Fast and Convenient

Most frozen and canned veggies come pre-chopped, so there’s almost no prep required. Just open the bag or can, heat, and enjoy.

Variety of colorful canned fruits and vegetables, opened and viewed from the top.

Simple to Store

Canned and frozen produce has a long shelf life, meaning you don’t have to worry about it going to waste.

Rows of canned goods on a shelf at a store.

Longer Shelf Life

Longer shelf life means you can stock up on canned and frozen veggies when sales hit, which helps you get more value from your grocery budget.

Mother and two children having lunch at the table at home.

Something For Everyone

With so many canned and frozen options available, there’s something for every meal that can satisfy any picky eater.

A Few Ideas to Get You Started

The beauty of canned and frozen produce is how it can be added to meals you already love and make at home. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Creamy Rotini and Cheese Carbonara with Peas.

Flavor Up Pasta or Noodles

Spaghetti, penne, macaroni and cheese, and other kinds of pasta are some of the best dishes for adding in canned or frozen produce like peas, carrots, corn, green beans, and more. Don’t feel like you have to pick just one.
Experiment with options and see what surprises you.

Spicy creamy broccoli gnocchi soup with cheddar cheese, thyme, onion and garlic close-up in a plate on the table.

Add Substance to Soup and Stews

Canned or frozen produce can add a mix of flavor, texture, and substance to your favorite soup and stew dishes. Dropping corn and carrots into a broccoli cheddar soup or adding frozen squash or cauliflower to beef stew are
just two ideas to start with.

Add to Already Hearty Recipes

Even heartier dishes like casseroles, enchiladas, or other baked entrees have room to work in extra canned or frozen produce. Consider adding green beans, carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes before you bake.

Featured Recipes

Black Bean and Corn “Confetti” Dip

A colorful twist on a classic dip.

Arroz Con Pollo

A vegetable-infused upgrade to the traditional Spanish dish.

Cheese and Veggie Quesadillas

A kids’ favorite made even heartier.

All Recipes

Brown paper bag full of colorful vegetables, garlic and herbs.

Food Resources

Explore helpful resources and learn more about different nutrition assistance options.

Resources