As a working parent juggling multiple deadlines, school pickup, and meal prep, I’ve quickly learned that keeping a few dinner shortcuts on hand is the difference between a fast homemade meal and spending too much money on mediocre takeout. Even on nights when I’m not feeling particularly inspired, knowing that my kitchen is stocked with pesto, beans, and—of course—marinara sauce means I can easily whip up one of my family’s go-to meals.