When I grocery shop, there are certain foods that stay stacked in my kitchen, my go-tos. They are the ones that I know how to prepare and are easy to make. Here is my list of 8.
Kashi Go Lean- For a cereal, Kashi Go-Lean very high in both protein and dietary fibers. Protein keeps my body satisfied and maintains “that full feeling.” Fiber is important to absorb toxins and it helps regulate …well you know. Since, I’m trying to stay away from animal milk, almond or cashew mylk (milk) is a better alternative. Here’s a great recipe that shows how to make both.
Carrots- Carrots, especially baby carrots, are easy to put in a sandwich bag and drop in my purse when I’m running errands or have a long study day ahead. They’re sweet (hopefully), they’re nutritional (contains Vitamin A and fiber), and they make tasty juice.
Skinless Chicken Breast- When I buy chicken, I place them in a zip-lock bag, usually two breasts per bag. That way, I don’t have to worry about unnecessarily thawing too much chicken, and it’s good portion control.
Spinach- I loves my spinach. It’s an easy leafy green to make smoothies and salads. Plus, I use it as a substitute for bread for my turkey burgers. Spinach also helps to protect my teeth and enamel by providing a protective coating. Do you notice how your teeth feel funny after eating spinach? Yup, that’s it! By the way, adding nutmeg to sauteed spinach gives it a little kick. Try it!
Coconut Oil- I find this to be a great alternative to butter, and it burns more slowly than olive oil and other types of oil. Plus, I use it on my skin (and hair sometimes); so, it serves many purposes.
Natural Peanut Butter- I like peanut butter because the protein in it keeps me satisfied during that 4:00 pm after work/ school craving. Not only is it tasty on apples (great substitute for candy apples) but I also put it on my celery, and in my oatmeal (with a little cinnamon and nutmeg). Peanut butter chicken recipes even exist. I may have to try it.
Apples or Pears- Fruits are great desserts. I learned this when I was in Spain several years ago during my study abroad experience. After dinner, my Spanish “mom” would always ask, “Quieres fruitas?” “I would think “Dang, that’s all y’all got?”…smh. Back then, I wasn’t as conscious about food choices as I am now. Now, when I have sugar crave, I’ll eat an apple, unless, I forget to pack one. Then, I’ll run to the vending machine for a Twix. Side note: just an example of how not preparing can be hazardous to weight loss.
Sweet Potato- sweet potatoes are very versatile. They’re my favorite complex carb. Depending on the texture I want, they can be baked, boiled, mashed, processed, sauteed. On lazy days, they’re easy to pop in the oven. Then, I add a little coconut oil, nutmeg and cinnamon. Or, I’ll add cheese to my baked sweet potato (cheddar, pepper jack, havarti, parmesan, munster, or tastee cheese).
Oftentimes, it’s so easy to buy the same foods repeatedly; so, I’m interested in what stays stacked in your kitchen. Do tell!
Click now to connect with me on Twitter and Facebook.
Be Good. Look Good. Do Better!
