15 Canned Foods You Should Be Eating For Breakfast
Canned foods aren’t just for survival kits or lazy dinners—they can actually shine at breakfast, too. When used right, they’re fast, affordable, shelf-stable, and surprisingly nutritious. Whether you’re throwing together a scramble, smoothie, or toast topper, these pantry MVPs can help you build a better breakfast without breaking a sweat. Here are 15 canned foods that deserve a spot on your breakfast plate.
1. Canned Black Beans
Imagine waking up to a breakfast that’s both hearty and nutritious. Canned black beans offer an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them an ideal breakfast staple. Mash them on toast, stir them into a breakfast burrito, or toss them alongside eggs for a fiber-rich start.
Did you know? Black beans are often referred to as the “caviar of the poor” in Latin America due to their rich texture and nutritional value. They’re not only economical but also versatile, fitting seamlessly into various breakfast dishes.
Try them once, and they’ll become a regular in your morning routine.
2. Canned Pumpkin
Not just for pie, canned pumpkin is a surprising breakfast champion. Stir it into oatmeal for a vitamin-packed boost or blend it into a smoothie for natural sweetness. It adds a creamy consistency to pancakes, making them moist and flavorful.
A fun fact: Native to North America, pumpkins were once recommended as a cure for freckles and snakebites. Today, they’re celebrated for their rich beta-carotene content.
With its vibrant orange hue, canned pumpkin transforms ordinary breakfasts into deliciously wholesome experiences. Embrace the pumpkin love all year round!
3. Canned Salmon
Canned salmon at breakfast might seem unconventional, but it’s a culinary revelation. Mix it with avocado or Greek yogurt for a quick spread on toast, or pair it with eggs for an omega-3-rich start.
Salmon has been a dietary staple in coastal cultures for centuries. Its convenience in canned form means you can enjoy its health benefits without the fuss of fresh fish.
This powerhouse fish fuels your brain and body, giving your breakfast a gourmet touch with minimal effort. Perfect for those seeking a sophisticated yet simple morning meal.
4. Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are a breakfast savior, adding instant brightness and acidity to dishes. Perfect for a quick shakshuka or breakfast hash, their rich flavor enhances simple ingredients.
Tomatoes have a storied past, once feared as poisonous in 18th-century Europe. Today, they’re a breakfast staple, celebrated for their lycopene content.
Whether diced or crushed, canned tomatoes bring a fresh burst to your morning plate, turning ordinary breakfasts into something special. Keep a can in your pantry, and explore its endless potential.
5. Canned Chickpeas
Canned chickpeas offer a delightful crunch when roasted, making them a fantastic breakfast topping. Mash them for chickpea toast or blend into a savory hummus bowl.
In ancient times, chickpeas were used as a coffee substitute in Europe. Today, they’re a protein-packed addition to morning meals.
Their nutty flavor complements a wide range of breakfast options, adding texture and nutrition. Whether you’re in a hurry or have time to savor, canned chickpeas elevate your start to the day.
6. Canned Coconut Milk
Canned coconut milk brings a tropical twist to breakfast. Add it to smoothies or oatmeal for rich, creamy textures. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with fruit.
Coconuts have been revered in tropical cultures for their versatility and nutritional benefits. Canned versions capture the essence of this island favorite, perfect for dairy-free diets.
Incorporating coconut milk into your breakfast routine is like taking a mini-vacation each morning. Embrace its luscious flavor, and transform ordinary meals into exotic delights.
7. Canned Refried Beans
Canned refried beans are an instant ticket to a Tex-Mex breakfast. Spread them on toast or tortillas, top with a fried egg, and finish with salsa for a vibrant start.
Beans have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, celebrated for their heartiness and flavor. In canned form, they offer convenience without sacrificing taste.
Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them a breakfast favorite for those seeking a hearty yet quick meal. Dive into this classic with a fiery flair!
8. Canned Pineapple
Canned pineapple brings a sweet, sunny addition to breakfast. Blend it into tropical smoothies or add it to yogurt bowls for a refreshing start.
Pineapples were once a symbol of hospitality, and their canned form makes them easily accessible all year. Their juicy sweetness complements a variety of breakfast dishes.
Embrace the tropical vibes with canned pineapple, making every morning feel like a vacation. Its tangy flavor enlivens your palate, promising a delightful breakfast experience.
9. Canned Sweet Potatoes
Canned sweet potatoes offer a delightful mix of fiber and natural sweetness, perfect for breakfast. Mash them into muffins or pancakes, or swirl them into oats.
Did you know? Sweet potatoes have been cultivated for over 5,000 years and were a staple in ancient South American diets.
Their vibrant orange color and rich flavor add a comforting touch to any morning meal. Embrace their nutritious benefits and enjoy a sweet start to your day.
10. Canned Sardines
Canned sardines might not be everyone’s first breakfast choice, but they’re a nutritious powerhouse. Rich in omega-3s, these little fish add flavor and healthy fats to your morning.
Sardines have been a staple in Mediterranean diets for centuries. Their canned form makes them accessible and convenient for modern breakfasts.
Try sardines on toast with lemon and arugula for a unique and brain-boosting start. Their savory taste and health benefits might just surprise you!
11. Canned Peaches (in juice)
Canned peaches in juice offer a sweet and satisfying breakfast addition. Toss them on cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a refreshing start.
Peaches have been cherished since ancient times, often associated with immortality in Chinese culture. Their canned form captures their luscious flavor without the need for peeling.
Enjoying canned peaches in the morning is like biting into sunshine. Their natural sweetness and juicy texture bring joy to every bite, making breakfast feel indulgent yet wholesome.
12. Canned Beets
Canned beets bring earthy vibrancy to breakfasts, whether diced into salads or blended into smoothies. Their rich color and flavor add depth to any dish.
Beets have a long history, once used as an aphrodisiac in ancient Rome. Today, they’re celebrated for their blood pressure-lowering properties.
Their versatility and nutritional benefits make canned beets a standout choice for morning meals. Enjoy their unique taste and vibrant hue, and start your day on a colorful note.
13. Canned Mushrooms
Canned mushrooms bring umami richness to breakfast with ease. Sauté and toss them into omelets or scrambles, adding depth without the need for chopping.
Mushrooms have been revered for centuries, especially in Asian cuisines, for their health benefits and flavor.
Their canned form makes them a quick option for busy mornings, delivering earthy flavors that elevate simple breakfast dishes. Indulge in their savory taste, and enjoy a gourmet start to your day.
14. Canned Lentils
Canned lentils are an underrated breakfast addition, providing protein and fiber. Add them to bowls or egg dishes for a nourishing start.
Lentils have been cultivated for over 8,000 years, a staple in diets across the globe. Their convenience in canned form means you can enjoy these ancient legumes effortlessly.
Their mild flavor and creamy texture blend seamlessly into various breakfast options, offering a fulfilling and nutritious meal. Discover the potential of lentils in your morning routine.
15. Canned White Beans
Canned white beans are creamy and neutral, making them a versatile breakfast ingredient. Blend into savory toasts or frittatas, or puree into spreads.
Beans have been a dietary staple for millennia, valued for their protein and fiber content. Canned versions offer convenience without compromising on nutrition.
Their smooth texture and subtle taste make them a breakfast favorite for those seeking a wholesome yet simple meal. Explore their versatility, and enjoy a comforting start to your day.