When the power goes out, cooking can be a challenge, especially if you rely on electric appliances. However, with a well-stocked pantry, you can still prepare nutritious and satisfying meals without any electricity. Here are three easy, no-cook meals using only shelf-stable ingredients.

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1. Chickpea and Tuna Salad Wraps

This protein-packed meal is simple, refreshing, and requires no refrigeration. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (185g) tuna in olive oil, drained
• 2 tbsp canned corn (optional)
• ¼ cup jarred roasted red peppers, chopped
• 2 tbsp jarred olives, chopped
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Juice of ½ lemon (or 1 tbsp bottled lemon juice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2–4 wraps or flatbreads

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas slightly with a fork.
2. Add the tuna, corn, roasted red peppers, olives, oregano, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the mixture onto wraps, roll up, and enjoy!

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2. Peanut Butter and Honey Oatmeal Cups

A simple, filling breakfast or snack that requires no cooking but still delivers energy and flavour.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup instant oats
• ½ cup peanut butter (or any nut butter)
• 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• ¼ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)
• ¼ cup nuts or seeds (if available)
• ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup shelf-stable milk or water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, honey, dried fruit, nuts/seeds, and cinnamon.
2. Slowly mix in the milk or water until the oats are slightly softened.
3. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
4. Shape into small cups or eat straight from the bowl.

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3. No-Cook Black Bean and Corn Tacos

A flavourful and hearty meal using canned goods that requires no heating.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (200g) corn, drained
• ½ cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
• 2 tbsp jarred salsa or hot sauce
• ½ tsp cumin (optional)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 small tortillas
• Any other fresh salad you have on hand

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, and spices.
2. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavours to blend.
3. Spoon into tortillas. Add some other fresh ingredients like capsicum, lettuce, guacamole, fresh coriander, even a squeeze of lime to taste.
4. Enjoy with some organic corn chips!

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Final Tips:

• Stock up on long-lasting items like shelf-stable milk, canned protein sources, and dried fruits for emergencies.
• If you have access to fresh herbs or spices, they can enhance the flavour of any no-cook meal.

With these easy recipes, you can stay nourished even when the power is out, using only simple pantry ingredients. Stay safe and enjoy!