To cook like a pro, you must first shop like a pro.
At first, I hated grocery shopping. The store would be packed, I was crunched for time, and I didn’t know what to buy. Now, it’s an exciting part of my weekly routine. My relationship with grocery shopping changed when I learned one simple thing: how to plan.
Why Plan Ahead:
Shopping with intention helps you save time, money, and energy. Before going to the store, decide what meals you will make throughout the week, and write down a list of ingredients you will need. This prevents you from buying unnecessary items and makes your shopping experience less stressful.
What to Put on Your List:
To prep for balanced and healthy meals, I recommend breaking your list up into four categories:
- Fruits: Fruits are full of vitamins and minerals, providing your body with essential nutrients that boost your overall health. They’re also a great source of fiber, which promotes digestion and improves gut health. Buying frozen or in-season is a great way to ensure you get the most flavorful and budget-friendly options. I buy 2-3 different kinds and add them to yogurt bowls, toast, and smoothies. Some of my favorite options that are in season include bananas, pears, and citrus fruits.
- Vegetables: Much like fruit, vegetables are packed with fiber and nutrients such as vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium, and iron. A diet rich in vegetables can help lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the risk of certain cancers. Vegetables are a great addition to any meal, and they help keep you full for longer. I like to roast mine and store them in the fridge, adding them to my lunch and dinner throughout the week.
- Protein: Protein is an important part of our diet for a number of reasons. It helps us grow and maintain muscle mass, promotes bone health, boosts immune functions, and regulates our hormones. Protein can be found in plant and animal sources, including meat, dairy, soy, nuts, grains, and beans. I try to pick three protein sources that I can use in various recipes throughout the week. My staple items include eggs, greek yogurt, chicken, and ground beef.
- Starch/Carbohydrates: Carbs are our body’s primary energy source, fueling our brain, heart muscles, kidneys, and central nervous system. While carbs can be found in a lot of different foods, complex carbs are the most beneficial to our health. The best sources include whole grains, rice, potatoes, pasta, and bread.
Planning ahead has not only saved me a lot of time and money, but it has allowed me to become more creative with my meals. By choosing versatile and quality ingredients, I have found new ways to prepare my favorite foods. Before your next trip to the store, take a moment to think about some of your favorite meals and identify the most common ingredients involved in them. Once you narrow down all the items you need, make your list, go shopping, and get cooking!
If you’re looking for more inspiration for your next shopping trip, check out these articles:
Sydney McCrone 
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