Getting ready to take that initial grocery shopping trip to stock your new apartment kitchen? You are going to need quite a few items, but if you know what you need and make a list, you’ll end up with a refrigerator and pantry full of food that you’ll be glad to have on hand. You’ll also be prepared to make a wide variety of recipes that are easy and healthful.
Here are our recommendations for necessities as you set up your new apartment:
Perishable items:
- Milk – a healthy way to get your calcium
- Butter
- Eggs – a great source of protein any time of day, and you’ll need these for baking
- Fresh fruit – If you are especially busy, choose easy to grab and go fruits such as apples and bananas
- Fresh vegetables – pre-washed lettuces are great for any lifestyle. A few tomatoes, an onion, chop with a jalapeno, a dash of salt and a few sprigs of cilantro – delicious fresh salsa
- Bread – if a loaf of bread is too big for you – consider buying fresh rolls in the bakery or a package of bagels for a quick, on the go meal
- Meats – if you are single, separate fresh meat into single-serving portions and freeze
Non-Perishable:
- Sugar
- Flour
- Coffee/Tea
- Cereals
- Frozen foods – pizza, vegetables, single-serving entrees
- Soups – choose a variety for a quick, healthy meal
- Pasta
- Pasta sauce
- Spices – start with salt, pepper, and perhaps something with several herbs such as Italian seasoning
- Canned meat – tuna fish and chicken breast make quick, easy, protein-filled meals
- Condiments – ketchup and mustard at least – add in hot sauce and pickle relish if you like
- Salad dressing – essential for the healthy eater
- Juices – heart-healthy and long-lasting in your fridge
- Snacks – consider pretzels for a healthy alternative, or dried fruit, but if you don’t care – cookies and chips will always work!
Non-Edible Groceries
- Kitchen cleaner – grease-fighting and antibacterial is best
- Dish soap – again, antibacterial is a good choice to keep your kitchen clean
- Dishwasher detergent – essential if you are fortunate enough to have a dishwasher in your new apartment
- Storage bags/wraps/containers – for storing leftovers or keeping pans and microwaves neat and tidy
Grocery Shopping Tips
1. Make a list – Before heading to the grocery store, make a list of all the items you need while taking special care to note any kitchen essentials you may be lacking.
2. Organize Your List – When preparing your list, group and organize the items on your list in the order that you pass them in the grocery store. This way you won’t forget an item or pick up things you don’t necessarily need while making several trips back and forth across the store to find what you need on a scrambled list.
3. Don’t forget Coupons – Carefully go through your coupons to find one for as many items on your list as possible and organize them according to how the items appear on your list.
4. Newspaper ads – Search through your newspaper or mail ads for special offers and prices at grocery stores in your area.
5. At the Grocery Store – While actually shopping, don’t forget for what you really came to the store. Try to avoid picking up items you don’t need, especially if you are shopping on a budget. Remember to stick to the list!
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Informative article. Thanks for using my photo from Flickr! :)