You started off the New Year with a list of resolutions, one being to ‘eat clean.’ It is now February, and you are still trying to figure out exactly what that means…and where do you even start? Whether you have fully committed to a Plant-Based diet or just dabbling with a few more greens on your plate, it can be overwhelming and a bit intimidating. Which is exactly why I’m sharing this Plant-Based Grocery Guide. And because I am an extremely visual person – I included a TON of photos to walk you through and show you how gorgeous clean eating can be.
First of all, you need to find the right places to shop. I prefer Whole Foods because they have everything I need, with the best Organic produce and Vegan options I may not find elsewhere. Also, they are super organized, with grocery categories labeled on huge overhead signs (my A-type personality goes wild ♥). The bonus is their customer service, which is on par with Nordstrom. There is always someone available to help and if they don’t have what you’re looking for, then they will order it. Their grocery game is strong.
To break down your grocery guide, I’m taking you on a shopping trip, aisle-by-aisle. THESE are items you need to put in your cart.
First stop – If you happen to be shopping with your kiddo, look for the red wagon near the checkouts that has baskets of fresh fruit. Little ones are allowed to grab 1 piece of fruit for FREE! The apple kept my 3 year old busy for a majority of the trip (Thank You!).
Now we begin…
I always start with the Produce section as it wins the award for being the prettiest. It’s total veggie eye-candy that will convert any non-kale lover to take the green plunge.
So #1 on your list: Leafy Greens! My top pick is Kale (if you follow me Instagram you would know this), however, feel free to throw Spinach, Rainbow Chard, Romaine, Arugula or anything that has that gorgeous green hue in your cart!
Every single morning I have a smoothie with heaps of greens.
And these little signs are my favorite – S -A – L – E ♥
#2: Cucumbers! In the same family as squash, pumpkin and watermelon, these goodies are known for their anti-inflammatory properties (among many other benefits). Add them to your salad, dip in hummus, or throw in your smoothie!
#3: Berries! Super high in antioxidants (protects your body from free radical damage). Add to smoothies, salads, oatmeal, or in a big bowl because they are just so good.
And if fruit is your love language – this aisle will have you swooning…
#4: Lemons. These little lovelies aid in digestion, skin rejuvenation and weight loss. Every morning I start with either my Metabolism Detox Drink or warm lemon water. And how about that salad dressing for lunch? Yep, Lemon Juice + Olive Oil + Pink Himalayan Sea Salt.
#5: Avocados – Because they literally go with everything and are packed with healthy fats (which lowers bad cholesterol) AND are known for being major brain Superfood.
#6: Nuts/Seeds. Finding these items in bulk is always your best bet, and Whole Foods has a selection that can’t be beat. Cashews and Almonds are my top picks because they are so versatile. Cashews are an amazing dairy substitute (grind them up and add to tomato soup for instant cream). Almonds are solid as a snack, in a salad, or ground up to make your own almond butter (super simple!).
Sometimes I get overzealous here, but it’s a fun way to try new things and mix up your menu a bit!
And about that nut butter…#yum.
#7: Hemp Hearts. These are new to my pantry and I am 100% obsessed. Referenced as the most concentrated and best balanced source of proteins, essential fats and vitamins in nature. 3 TBS has 10g of protein and omegas – perfect to mix in any (or all) meals of the day! Manitoba Harvest is my preferred brand. ♥
#8: Dried Greens. Amazing Grass Green Superfood is a leading champion in this arena, providing a major vitamin and mineral boost in your diet. I throw a scoop in my morning smoothie and my daughter loves the Kidz SuperFood mixed with water. Like clockwork, every single day – this is our routine.
And Costco’s not the only one with samples…
#9: Plant-Based Protein. My top pick is Vega which has 15+g complete protein and is dairy, gluten and soy free (+ no sugar added). Use for a post-workout shake or mix in baked goods to boost the nutrition value.
#10: Coconut Oil – rockstar status. Add it to roasted veggies, throw a tablespoon in your smoothie, even lather all over your body. It’s a healthy fat with amazing nutrients for your skin, as well. Really, what can’t you do with coconut oil? This should always be in your pantry. I’m a big fan of the Whole Foods brand 365 Everyday Value – great price points.
#11: Coconut Milk/Almond Milk. I go in phases but right now I am crushing hard on Coconut-everything – so that is what’s in my fridge. Perfect dairy-free substitute and is referenced to boost metabolism and increase energy because it is more likely to be burned as fuel than stored as body fat. Many nutritionists recommend the full-fat variety in the can, however, this is another option. Tip: Always choose Unsweetened. The extra sugar is not necessary in the flavored varieties.
#12: Kombucha/Probiotic Drink. These drinks have detoxification properties and support a healthy immune system. My preferred brand is KeVita.
{Confession} Sometimes I spend a majority of my shopping trip here reading labels and deciding between Turmeric Ginger or Lavender Melon…
So that concludes Your Plant-Based Grocery Guide on items you should always have in your pantry (or fridge), especially if clean eating is on your New Year’s resolution agenda.
Since you’re already at Whole Foods, here a few other items that I always add to my cart (let this be extra credit)…
I always have Earth Balance on hand, just in case a recipe calls for butter or if my girl’s are on a toast kick. Vegan/Non-Gmo…
Dairy-Free substitutes like Vegenaise, Daiya Cheese, Tofu, etc. These aren’t in my everyday diet, but sometimes on hand for convenience.
Beyond Meat is my #1 pick for a Plant-Based meat substitute. It’s also a great segue for those looking to steer away from meat but need a similar replacement. (Vegan/Gluten-Free)
Okay, so you’re totally nailing the Plant-Based parade, but you have a sweet tooth…now what?
Well, the bakery at Whole Foods happens to be one of the best around and they have Vegan desserts to die for.
And if you need something to bring home to the family, So Delicious makes fantastic Non-Dairy frozen treats.
And now that you’re hungry…grab lunch to go…which I always do when I’m here.
And last but not least…buy yourself some flowers. You deserve it. ♥
What item most intrigues you? What would you add to the list?
XoXo Portia
Disclosure: Whole Foods graciously provided me with some product to try and review. The opinions expressed here represent my own, which I take great pride in providing pure honesty…because I’m OBSESSED with sharing the Good!