7 Foods to Have on Hand So You Eat

Last updated on December 7th, 2025 at 05:56 pm

One of the toughest things about being a mom is finding the time and space to eat. You’re eating your kids’ leftovers or not at all. But not eating properly is going to keep you tired and dysregulated, and eventually, you’ll hit a brick wall. So, let’s make things as easy as possible. Let’s get some things that you can eat really fast, but they’re still nutrient-dense and will give you some energy. Here’s what you’re adding to your grocery list.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a magic food, I swear. It’s incredible for protein on top of being extremely easy. You can just add a handful of nuts and some berries, and you’ve got a pretty solid meal to start your day, complete with protein, fat, and fiber, which is the golden trifecta. There are also so many different types and flavors on the market, including some with extra protein or no sugar. It’s a great way to bulk up your smoothies too!

Rotisserie Chicken

I love getting a rotisserie chicken because it makes lunch so much easier, and if you’re good with cold chicken, it’s super fast. I personally just get some chunks of chicken and pair it with some raw veggies for a quick lunch. If I can make some pasta or eat some crackers for carbs, all the better.

Raw Veggies

Speaking of raw veggies… Make it super easy on yourself and get veggies that you can just pull out of the fridge. We’re talking sugar snap peas, baby carrots, lunchbox peppers, etc. Things that you can literally just eat as is. If you’re worried about money or you have some prep time, you can buy some veggies in bulk and then prep them so you can just pull them out of the fridge easily. Seriously, the easier you make it to eat your veggies, the more you’ll eat them. (While we’re at it, did you know that pickles count as a vegetable? They do!)

Spreads

Hummus and peanut butter are the big/best ones. They’re going to add some great fats into your diet (keeping you fuller longer) as well as a little bit of protein. Pair it with your raw veggies, and you’ve got a solid snack. Plus, don’t underestimate the value of apple slices and peanut butter.

Cheese Sticks

Cheese sticks or packets are another quick snack option that you can pair with something else (like crackers) to curb your hunger. They actually pack a good amount of protein, and they’re as easy as unwrapping them. If you’re absolutely strapped for time and energy, a cheese stick will probably be helpful.

Nuts

Nuts are a good power food because they have a little bit of protein on top of some healthy fats. You can get whatever nut works best for you. As I said, it’s a great mix-in too for Greek yogurt, oatmeal, or muffins. A handful of nuts might keep you going a little longer.

Canned Fish

I love canned tuna. It regularly saves my butt when I need a quick sandwich, and it is absolutely packed with protein and healthy fats. Mix it with some mayo, some spices, and a whole-grain bread, and you’ve got a complete lunch. Add an apple, and you’re absolutely golden.

I think we’ve got this idea that nutrition has to be intensely complicated, but it really doesn’t. The important thing is that we eat, and we try our best to check those boxes as often as we can. And don’t fall for the propaganda that making the food into something else negates its nutrients. Guacamole is still avocado. Salsa is still tomato. Cut yourself some slack and focus on what makes you feel good!