Because it doesn’t snow often in Raleigh, the city virtually shuts down when the first flakes begin to stick. Schools are cancelled, businesses close and all the kids (of every age) come out to play. That usually means really hungry and cold people when we finally make it back inside.

The running joke in NC is that when the forecast calls for any kind of inclement weather, there’s a run on the grocery stores and milk and bread are the first to go.

I have always thought that to be so ironic. If you aren't buying anything else, what actually are you supposed to make with milk and bread? You didn’t buy eggs, so French Toast is out. (Although we have an awesome recipe in our recipe archives). Unless you have peanut butter and jelly at home, even something as simple as a sandwich and glass of milk is out.  So what good is just bread and milk really going to do you?

We believe on snow days you have to rely on your pantry. So if you have to make a run to the store before a storm, check your pantry and bring its inventory up to snuff.  

Here’s a quick list:
•    Assorted canned beans
•    Canned broth, chicken, beef, vegetable
•    Canned tomatoes: assorted flavors, cuts
•    Canned/ bottled olives, chopped, pitted and whole
•    Canned chopped chilies
•    Olive oil
•    Red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar
•    Assorted rice/ pasta

With these few items, the opportunities for dinner in a flash after sledding is multiplied. Our Speedy Black Bean Soup is one of our tried an true snow day soups. Give it a try the next time you need a 20-minute, feed a hungry hoard recipe. And let us know what you feed the crowds on snow days.