What is that ingredient that you like to keep on hand?  Something that just makes things taste better.  It could be an herb or spice, a condiment...

For me, it is frozen chopped onion and bell pepper.  Though I prefer fresh when possible, the frozen package is convenient and ready to use - and economical, too - fresh bell peppers in my area are PRICEY!

I find myself using this mix often.  It is perfect for omelets - just saute a few minutes to thaw before pouring the egg in.  It's good in soups and stews, potato, vegetable and pasta dishes, and can make something fairly basic really taste special.

My mother started using it in hamburger helper - something she and my dad still have about once a week.   She offered me a taste one evening, and it was delicious!  I asked if it was a new flavor and she said no, it was the same kind she always made, but she added the onion and pepper mix this time.   The simmering made the added flavor very subtle - it tasted more like something made from scratch (instead of rehydrated out of a box).

CG

that sounds good!  I've used seasoned bread crumbs, but never tried seasoning cracker crumbs before - I will have to try it - I always like something that adds a little crunch:)

Aleppo pepper!  I use this instead of ground, black pepper. It's like black pepper but with more "character".  "Tis addictive too.


IRene.

I like this rosemary, garlic, pepper mix I get at Sam's Club made by Tone spices.  Rub that on chicken and put it on a rotisserie and you have heaven.  It is also good in lentils.  It is great on oven fried egg too.

Thanks for the source, Irene, I will definitely check that out :)

appy, that blend sound very good, and I know exactly where to find it at Sams - I will check that out next time I go.  It's grilling season now, and I think I had better stock up!