Grocery List (part 1)

I have been receiving emails asking me what my staple foods are in my house. I usually answer each and every one but I decided that I would like to share with my readers what I buy and keep on hand.

I am going to focus on produce – my favorite!

I ALWAYS try to shop locally first. Food co-ops, farmers markets or looking for those wonderful “local” signs in the supermarkets. But in the winter it makes it near impossible. I also buy the majority of my groceries organic.

When you buy organic you do more than just preventing pesticides from being digested, you are making a HUGE impact on individuals and the environment.

• Cleaner water used and less chemicals leeching into our soil
• Cleaner air since there are no spray chemicals being used
• No growth hormones
• Protecting the farmers health as they are not breathing the chemicals
• Farmers who use organic methods are more likely to care about the Earth and the environment, making their footprint as small as possible.

Here is a website that quickly, yet effectively, explains why organic is the best choice. Can’t buy ALL organic produce, or is still a little unsure as to which you should choose? Here is a list of The Dirty Dozen.

Ok, back to the topic.

I love shopping for produce. The array of colors and smells excite my senses and I feel so good knowing that I am treating my body well.

So here it is: my go-to produce list

• Greens – baby spinach, romaine hearts, kale
• Apples
• Carrots
• Beets
• Celery
• Onion – red and yellow
• Avocado
• Bananas
• Strawberries, or any other berry that is available
• Sweet Potato / Yam
• Brussels Sprouts
• Broccoli

Other items that I pick up on a bi-weekly basis or when I get the urge:

• Bell Pepper – red or yellow
• Cucumber
• Zucchini
• Tomatoes
• Fingerling potatoes
• Pears
• Spring Mix
• Bok Choy
• Citrus – oranges, Clementine’s, grapefruit
• Butternut Squash

Since I love juicing I do end up having a larger produce bill. BUT I simply love the way fresh juice tastes and makes me feel! It is a necessity in my diet.

This list will change from season to season. In the summer it is loaded with a lot more fruit but I simple cannot stand mealy, tasteless fruit in the winter. =( I miss my cantaloupe and watermelon!

Stay tuned for more of my Grocery List posts in the near future!