Mac and cheese is the meal people reach for after a wet day on Mt. Hood, and this is the one that delivers 24 grams of protein with it. Elbow noodles in a sauce built from parmesan, romano and cheddar, with a little onion, pepper and nutmeg, rehydrated with one cup of boiling water straight in the pouch. Vegetarian, nut-free and soy-free, with a 10-year best-by date from Backpacker's Pantry, so it serves as trail food this weekend or the earthquake kit next year.

Specs

• Servings: 2 (brand tag)
• Calories: 510, basis not stated by brand
• Protein: 24g
• Prep: add 1 cup (240mL) boiling water · stir, seal, wait 8 minutes · stir again, reseal, wait 7 more minutes
• Elevation note: directions set for 5,000 ft; rehydration time doubles every 5,000 ft of gain
• Diet: Vegetarian · Nut-Free · Soy-Free
• Allergens: Egg · Milk · Wheat
• Weight: 4.2 oz
• Shelf life: best-by date 10 years from manufacture