The Best Ingredients for Quick and Healthy RV Camping Meals

Just because you are on the road, traveling cross country all the time, and never settling down, doesn't mean that you can't stay healthy as well. You can, even with RV camping, prepare delicious meals that don't add to your waistline. 

This only happens when you choose the right ingredients to make your meals nutritious. But it doesn't mean that you need to spend a ton to get organic or expensive ingredients. 

Here are some top ingredients to consider for RV camping meals on your next adventure:

Whole Grains

Opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, or whole wheat pasta. These options provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients, keeping you energized during your travels.

You can mix and match these ingredients with many others down below to create a nutritious meal that's wholesome and chockful of vitamins and minerals.

Avoid white rice, white pasta, or white flour as much as possible. It's okay to have it once in a while, but don't make it a habit to have it every day. 

Canned Beans

Beans are a versatile and protein-rich option. They are especially perfect for all those vegetarians and vegans who are cooking on a road trip or while RVing. 

Canned beans are convenient, as they require minimal preparation. Consider black beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans to add substance to salads, wraps, or one-pot dishes.

Don't worry about getting bloated or gassy when eating beans. If you are not used to them, then consider adding them slowly to your diet. The more your gut gets used to a bean diet, the less gassy you will feel after eating them. 

Canned Vegetables

Sometimes you are just not going to be in the mood to make an elaborate meal. For those days, canned vegetables are a perfect ingredient to have on hand. 

Keep your RV pantry stocked with canned vegetables for a quick and easy way to incorporate nutrients into your meals. Look for low-sodium options and a variety such as corn, peas, and diced tomatoes.

Lean Proteins

Pack lean protein sources like canned tuna, chicken, or turkey. These options are easy to store, have a long shelf life, and can be used in sandwiches, salads, or wraps.

You can buy them canned or frozen, especially if you have the freezer space for it. 

Nuts and Seeds

Add a crunch to your meals with nuts and seeds. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are excellent choices, providing healthy fats and additional nutrients.

You can even use them as healthy snacks rather than munching on chips or butter-laden popcorn when you are sitting down to watch a movie or binge on your favorite Netflix series. 

Fresh Produce

While space is limited in an RV, try bringing along some fresh fruit and vegetables. Apples, oranges, and carrots are sturdy options that don't require refrigeration and provide essential vitamins.

Whenever possible, you can stop on the road and grab fresh produce, like strawberries from a nearby farm or oranges. Eat them fast, so you don't have to throw them out and waste your money. 

Condiments and Seasonings

Enhance the flavor of your meals with a selection of condiments and seasonings. Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, and a variety of spices can transform simple ingredients into tasty dishes.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a versatile and nutritious choice. Use it as a base for breakfast with fruits and granola or as a substitute for sour cream in savory dishes. It won't stay for long, so make sure to consume it quickly, maybe with your daily breakfast cereal or muesli. 

Eggs

Egg-lovers rejoice. No matter how much time you have while cooking on the road, it's easy to prepare egg dishes galore. 

They are a protein-packed ingredient that can be utilized in various ways. Scramble them for breakfast, incorporate them into fried rice, or make a quick omelet with your favorite vegetables.

Oatmeal Packets

For a quick and hearty breakfast, bring along individual oatmeal packets. Simply add hot water or milk, and you have a nutritious and filling meal to start your day.

This is great for those days when you don't feel like preparing anything special for breakfast, or when you need to get out early to get to your next destination. Add whatever you want on top to make it more hearty, like cut fruits, yogurt, granola, nuts, or more. You can make oatmeal either sweet or savory, depending on your preference.  

Tortillas

Opt for whole grain tortillas as a versatile option for wraps and tacos. They are compact and can be filled with a variety of ingredients for a quick and satisfying meal.

You can also use them to scoop up other dishes you cook like stir-fried vegetables, eggs, or curry. They last for a long time and don't need to be refrigerated. 

Dried Herbs and Spices

Enhance the taste of your meals with a selection of dried herbs and spices. Basil, oregano, garlic powder, and cumin can add depth to your cooking without taking up much space.

If you have the space and wish to have fresh herbs, then you could have a couple of pots with fresh herbs growing in them that you can pick when preparing your meals.

Of course, this requires you to have the counter space to keep these pots. But it's well worth it, when you can pick fresh herbs and have that delicious decadent smell and flavor resonating throughout your RV kitchen. 

RV Camping Meals Don't Have to Be Boring

Camping food has come a long way since the day of our grandparents. Now you can carry a bunch of delicious, healthy, fresh, and decadent ingredients, and cook them up for your family or loved ones. 

This way, you can all stay healthy eating RV camping meals even when cooking on a road trip. 

Are you looking for an RV resort that has the best-in-class amenities? Then Canopy is the place for you. Make a reservation now and see what we built just for you.