Stock what you actually cook, not what magazines suggest.
Always On Hand
Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, onions, canned tomatoes, dried pasta, rice, and one legume.
Seasonal Rotation
Winter: root vegetables and squash. Summer: fresh herbs and stone fruit. Buy what is abundant.
Spice Drawer
Cumin, paprika, turmeric, and oregano cover most cuisines. Replace ground spices annually.