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Snack fads come and go, but pantry staples are forever. There’s a special kind of satisfaction in finding an olive oil, pasta, or canned item that’s earned a permanent place on your grocery list. These stockable essentials are like loyal Labradors––reliable, comforting, and always waiting for you at the end of a long, draining day. Most importantly, they make life easier and help you feel good—award-worthy qualities in our book.
Whether you’re hoping to upgrade your Sunday morning pancake ritual or spice up your go-to weeknight dinner, the 2024 SELF Pantry Award winners—some of which you’ll meet below—are ready to work for you. To get this year’s list of champs, we spent months testing loads of canned beans, tinned fish, and other protein fixes to bulk up your favorite bowls. We whipped up waffle mixes, played barista with milk alternatives, and ate more mac and cheese than your average kindergarten class. Here, you’ll find the shelf-stable picks that rose to the top, with plenty of gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options for every kind of eater.
Be sure to check out the rest of SELF's 2024 Pantry Award winners: Find delightful sauces, spreads, oils, and condiments here, and the most snackable chips, crackers, bars, pretzels, and popcorn here.
Siesta Co. Tuna Belly in Yuzu Koshō
Why we love it: Yuzu koshō—a Japanese condiment made from chiles, salt, and citrus —meets its match with Siesta Co. tuna. The packaging is as easy to dig into as it is beautiful, but the zingy flavor of the fish is what really won us over.
One tester said: “Holy HELL. This was my first dance with koshō––a yuzu/chile pepper condiment that is now my one true love. It’s tangy, sweet, spicy, citrusy, and perfect with tuna. I loved every aspect of this from start to finish. What an inspired and delicious thing to eat!”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free
Wild Planet Wild Tuna Quinoa Salad Ready-To-Eat Meal
Why we love it: This Wild Planet bowl is impressively fresh-tasting for how easy it is to keep on hand and eat at your leisure. Testers enjoyed the combination of textures, colorful veggies, and satiating tuna chunks. One took advantage of the zero-prep, easy-open perks by packing the dish for a hike.
One tester said: “Normally I wouldn’t go for something like this, but it definitely expanded my mind about what’s possible with canned fish/foods. I didn’t even know cooked quinoa could be canned—and this was surprisingly good.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free
Pole & Line Albacore in Olive Oil
Why we love it: Pole & Line caters to fans of classic canned tuna but brings a welcome, subtle upgrade to the table. This fish won major points for its texture and intuitive packaging, which doesn’t require a can opener.
One tester said: “This is some of the juiciest tuna I’ve ever had. It was really flavorful and tasty straight out of the jar and was a great fit for my usual tuna salad recipe.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, Kosher
Tonnino Yellowfin Tuna Filets with Jalapeño in Olive Oil
Why we love it: Testers praised Tonnino’s tender tuna filets for their versatility, adding them to sandwiches, pasta, salads, ramen, and beyond for a bright jalapeño kick. They’re generously packed in a glass jar, ideal to store and reuse. One tester loved the residual oil, too, using every last drop to cook other fish long after the Tonnino filets were gone.
One tester said: “I’ve tried tons of preserved fish, but Tonnino’s is undoubtedly my favorite. I highly recommend this product to anyone who enjoys an option that feels more high-quality and delicious.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free
Patagonia Provisions Mackerel Variety Pack
Why we love it: We have reason to believe that the phrase “holy mackerel” refers directly to this. Our testers especially loved the Lemon Caper variation—for brine enthusiasts, it packs the perfect pucker.
One tester said: “This is a game changer for those who enjoy tinned fish. This flavor is exceptional as the mackerel is soaked in olive oil and spices, and the capers give it a delicious bite.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free
Island Creek Oysters X Mariscadora Box O’Fish Variety Pack
Why we love it: They say not to judge a book by its cover, but all bets are off once you spot the irresistibly cute nautical characters on Island Creek Oysters’s packaging. We’re pleased to share that the contents inside are just as delightful: The variety pack is an easy way to shake things up in the kitchen—but if we had to pick favorites, we’d go for the Razor Clams in Olive Oil, eaten either as a stand-alone snack or over pasta.
One tester said: “This is such a fun way to dip your toe into tinned fish, with more explorative picks like cockles and safer ones like mussels. They’re all great, not too fishy, and perfect on a cheese board.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free
Nazarena Sardines in Olive Oil
Why we love it: The pantry staples that survive generations don’t need much perfecting, and Nazarena’s classic sardines in olive oil prove just that. With its charming, vintage-inspired branding, it looks as good on the shelf as it does on your plate.
One tester said: “Sometimes the oil in sardines can be a bit gross or too fishy, but this one was actually really good. These sardines were perfect as is, and with a squeeze of lemon over toast they were the perfect meal.”
Sea Tales Sardines in Spicy Tomato Sauce
Why we love it: Mix a strikingly fresh, classic fish with an unexpected sauce, and you’ve got a tinned winner. Our testers were no strangers to canned sardines, but they found the spicy tomato sauce to be a welcome twist on an old favorite.
One tester said: “Do yourself a favor: Put these on a piece of crusty bread with a drizzle of olive oil, and change your life.”
Zoup! Good, Really Good Chicken Bone Broth Concentrate
Why we love it: You’ll never regret stocking up on chicken broth, especially when a nasty cold sneaks up on you. Our testers were excited to swap their usual bulky cartons for this savory space-saver, a just-add-water concentrate. The eight-ounce jar yields up to 10 quarts of broth, perfect for sipping or seasoning.
One tester said: “A little goes a long way—I assumed I’d have to use the whole container to meal prep, but only needed half a spoonful for three to four days’ worth of soup. I absolutely love this and know it’ll be a staple in my everyday life.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free
Zoup! Good, Really Good Veggie Broth
Why we love it: Many vegetable broths struggle to compete with the savory, hearty taste of real chicken, but not Zoup’s. In addition to the fresh, just-salty-enough flavor, the glass jar makes for easy storage and portioning and a slightly elevated experience.
One tester said: “Loved this, and love that it comes in a cute jar. It really worked as an excellent substitute for chicken broth in everything from marsala sauce to bean soup.”
Gluten-free, vegan
Rise Brewing Co. Original Oat Milk
Why we love it: Attempting to replicate café-quality coffee drinks at home can feel like a losing battle, but the right milk substitute can make all the difference. Testers were wowed by the taste and froth of Rise’s shelf-stable oat milk, which saved them (and their wallets) a few trips to the coffee shop.
One tester said: “I really liked this product and its simple ingredients. It made me look forward to making hot drinks at home.”
Dairy-free, vegan
Califia Farms Original Almond Barista Blend
Why we love it: When it comes to dairy-free coffee creamers, almond milk has its skeptics—our testers included. But after trying this barista blend, they deemed it the “only” almond milk they’d ever put in coffee. It steams, foams, and swirls to perfection, and it adds a rich flavor to any java fix.
One tester said: “As someone who usually HATES almond milk in coffee, I had low expectations, but this product greatly exceeded them! The flavor was warm and nutty—just a perfect latte base, honestly. I loved that it felt a little lighter in body than oat milk too.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, Kosher, vegan
Táche Original Blend Pistachio Milk
Why we love it: We’re still in the early phases of the pistachio milk takeover—but based on the reviews of this blend, we won’t be for long. Testers found themselves swooning for their daily coffees and matchas after adding a hint of Táche. Pistachio milk’s potential doesn’t end with your favorite caffeine vehicles, either: It’s also great for smoothies, cereal, baking, and—no judgment—straight out of the carton.
One tester said: “Wow, my matcha game is forever changed thanks to this. Táche in particular has a really nice, nutty aftertaste that accentuates the flavor of whatever I’m drinking. I also love that it’s sweet and creamy without being overwhelmingly dense or milky…. An absolute 10/10 for me.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan
SER!OUS Bean Co Southwest Smokehouse Black Beans
Why we love it: Testers raved about the smoky blend of seasonings and pops of sweet corn in these Southwest-inspired beans. They’re the perfect sub for your usual legumes in burritos, bowls, or sides.
One tester said: “Straight out of the can, these beans tasted amazing! They’re pretty sweet but in this really yummy, savory way that is super lovely. I used them in my chili stew; the sweetness mellowed out in the final dish and the spices came through beautifully.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, vegan
Jovial Foods 100% Organic Chickpeas
Why we love it: Jovial Chickpeas certainly sparked joy—our testers were so impressed with the depth of flavor, soft-yet-firm texture, and fresh hummus potential that they deemed these worth the upcharge from your usual can.
One tester said: “These chickpeas blew my mind, which is not a thing I ever thought I would say about chickpeas. They are so good that I literally had a dream about them the night after I first tried them.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, vegan
Primary Beans Organic Alubia Beans
Why we love it: If you’re historically dried-beans-avoidant (we get it, soaking in advance can feel like a chore), these Alubias are a game changer: They can cook right away on the stovetop or in the pressure cooker, no presoaking necessary. Testers said they felt particularly wholesome—from their hearty, earthy taste to their packaging, which pinpoints their harvest date and the exact farming communities that grew them.
One tester said: “I used these in a recipe that really put them front and center (Simple Beans and Toast from NYT Cooking) and I loved the flavor and texture. The beans themselves are also quite small, which was a nice surprise. I’m definitely going to keep buying them and will check out the other varieties this brand offers too.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, vegan
Bush’s Beans Chili Magic Chili Starter (Classic Homestyle)
Why we love it: This starter promised magic, and our testers became believers. For the nights when you only have a sprinkle of culinary creativity in your system, it’s the perfect kick-start: Just add your favorite fixings to the base (made of sauce and pinto beans), and count on Bush’s to deliver all the seasoning and flavor.
One tester said: “I’ve never made chili before but this product was exactly what I needed to kill my reservations. You have so much of a head start, it’s like the dish just cooks itself.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, vegetarian
The Only Bean Edamame Spaghetti
Why we love it: Don’t let its color intimidate you—for this grain-free spaghetti, the good is in the green. Testers found that The Only Bean’s edamame pasta absorbed the sauces and flavors of their favorite dishes beautifully, and as a bonus, cooked faster than your standard glutinous options.
One tester said: “One of the best grain-free alternatives that I’ve tried. It had lots of flavor, a really nice texture, and you feel good while eating it.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, Kosher, nut-free, vegan
Pasta Rummo Gluten-Free Pasta
Why we love it: It’s fun to get creative with substitutes in the kitchen, but sometimes all we want is something that tastes like the real deal. Our testers agreed that Pasta Rummo’s gluten-free line was a true dead ringer for classic noodles.
One tester said: “I have tried many GF pastas and this is the only one that tastes like real pasta—not like chickpeas or peas or beans or something else.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, vegetarian
Jovial Foods 100% Organic Gluten-Free Brown Rice Fusilli
Why we love it: Fusilli lovers know that texture makes all the difference in a pasta dish, and this version of the beloved shape doesn’t disappoint. It cooks to a perfectly chewy al dente—often hard to accomplish sans gluten.
One tester said: “You know that weird, gritty, dense taste that most gluten-free pastas have? This one doesn’t have it AT ALL. My sister, who is skeptical of all things gluten- free, was genuinely surprised that it wasn’t my regular fusilli.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, Kosher, nut-free, vegan
Eleven Madison Park’s Granola
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Why we love it: Eleven Madison Park’s granola brings a little luxury to the humble pantry; one tester called it downright “posh.” From its chic packaging to its satisfying, flavorful crunch, it’ll make every breakfast feel like a five-star hotel spread.
One tester said: “The oats are a nice level of crunchy, and the ratio of fruit to nuts is perfect. It’s delicious enough for snacking on its own or even as a dessert topping. This sparked major joy for me!”
Vegan
Stellar Granola
Why we love it: Stellar Granola lives up to its name: The paper packaging gives it a homemade and wholesome feel, with a simple ingredient list to match. With unique flavors like Golden Milk and Everything Bagel, it’s the perfect way to dress up sweet or savory dishes—or, go ahead, just munch on it straight out of the bag.
One tester said: “These granolas are by far the best Pantry Awards product I’ve ever received; I tried five different flavors and I truly couldn’t pick a favorite because I love them all.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, vegan
Nature’s Path Gluten Free Brown Sugar Maple Instant Oatmeal
Why we love it: Our oatmeal connoisseurs found a favorite in this preportioned classic from Nature’s Path. It’s quick and easy—ready in minutes in the microwave or overnight in the fridge—without sacrificing quality, consistency, or flavor. (And, as a bonus, it’s gluten-free.)
One tester said: “This oatmeal thickens the best out of any I’ve tried; it’s easy to throw in the microwave, and with a scoop of peanut butter, some chia seeds, and almond milk, it makes the perfect weekday breakfast.”
Gluten-free, Kosher, nut-free, vegan
Purely Elizabeth Vanilla Blueberry Almond Superfood Cereal with Vitamin D
Why we love it: The problem with cereal is that it’s rarely as filling as you want it to be, no matter how delicious the recipe. Well, this fixes all that—with crunchy clusters of oats, almonds, chia seeds, and quinoa, Purely Elizabeth’s works hard and tastes good doing it.
One tester said: “This is my new favorite cereal! It’s the perfect combo of crunchy, earthy, sweet, filling, and refreshing. I would honestly eat it every day for breakfast—and as a nighttime snack too.”
Gluten-free, vegan
Ghetto Gastro Pancake & Waffle Mix
Why we love it: With flavor options like sweet potato and strawberry, this Ghetto Gastro mix shakes up your favorite breakfast treat. The pancakes and waffles were irresistibly fluffy and easy to prepare: The can was less messy to work with than typical bags or boxes of mix and only called for water and oil.
One tester said: “Ghetto Gastro is the best vegan mix I’ve tried. The resulting pancakes have a touch of sweetness without tasting too sugary and the consistency is a happy medium between dense and fluffy.”
Dairy-free, nut-free, vegan
Bob’s Red Mill Homestyle Pancake & Waffle Mix
Why we love it: Bob’s Red Mill delivers the childhood nostalgia of classic buttermilk pancakes with none of the hassle. For a just-add-water mix, the final product is surprisingly light and fluffy, with a rich, homemade taste. We’re also fans of the resealable bag, which makes for easy long-term storage.
One tester said: “This is the next best thing to making pancakes completely from scratch.”
Dairy-free, Kosher
A-Sha Meteor Noodle Pantry Pack
Why we love it: This is everything instant noodles should be: comforting, hearty, and easy. With rich flavor options like braised beef and hot-and-sour sauce, they’re satisfying to enjoy in a pinch but also make a great base for more involved dishes or soups.
One tester said: “These tasted delicious, came together superfast, and I loved the shape and texture of the noodles! They’re excellent for special-feeling, easy winter dinners.”
Dairy-free, nut-free
Goodles Cheddy Mac
Why we love it: With its familiar rich cheddar taste—and protein and fiber counts that put your classic Kraft to shame—Goodles is the boxed mac and cheese that seems too good to be true. This easy meal makes you feel like a giddy kid and a responsible adult all at once. While testers couldn’t get enough of Cheddy Mac, they also recommended the brand’s less conventional flavors, like Here Comes Truffle and Down the Hatch, which brings a chili pepper kick.
One tester said: “The flavors are so unique and fun; when combined with some quick elements like sausage or peas, it tastes like you’ve done actual cooking. I love a classic mac so I was prepared to be thrown off by the nutritional stats, but my expectations were far surpassed.”
Kosher
Royal White Basmati Rice
Why we love it: White rice is the ultimate pantry staple; it’s reliable, versatile, and if you’ve got the right one, easier than ever to prepare. Royal’s instant version (microwaveable and bagged) cooks to perfection practically all on its own and stands apart from competitors for its clump-free texture.
One tester said: “This was straight-up rice in a bag—and I love straight-up rice in a bag! I’d buy and use this all the time for nights when I need to assemble dinner quickly. It’s also a perfect portion size—fab for single people.”
Dairy-free, gluten-free, Halal, Kosher, nut-free, vegan
Photography: Chelsea Kyle
Prop styling: Amy Elise Wilson at Laird and Good Company
Creative Director: Amber Venerable
On-Set Producer: Melissa Kramer
Editor in Chief: Rachel Wilkerson Miller
Executive Editor: Alisa Hrustic
Associate Director, Special Projects: Hannah Pasternak
Associate Art Director: Amanda K Bailey
Web Producer: Caroline Acosta
Editorial Assistant: Grace McCarty
