When the produce comes from Faraway Lands, or is thin on the shelves (and the farmers market looks sad and gray), these items will become your essentials for making delicious winter meals. Make sure you have the basics. 
Dried and canned beans. Think organic! Cannellini, black bean, chick pea, pinto etc. Lentils; red ones cook fast. The black lentil is chocked full of vitamins,and brown lentils are classic for salads. Whole wheat pasta is a must. Canned tomatoes, tomato paste along with canned fish like tuna, salmon, along with nut butters. All these items are needed either used together or separately to make a wonderful meal.