Sprouts is one of my favorite grocery stores! They always have such great deals on produce and bulk items and the shopping experience is always pleasant. Whenever I go to make groceries, yes I said “make groceries,” ( translated ‘grocery shopping’ for those of you who did not grow up in New Orleans, La) there are a few items that always find their way in my cart. Different types of squash, berries, and leafy greens. Over the years, these have become kitchen staples for me, helping to keep my meals healthy and yummy. Are you trying to find a way to keep extra nutrients in your diet? Then you might want to add these to your cart too..

Spinach (and/or Kale)

Benefits: Containing numerous vitamins and minerals, these two leafy greens are always the first on my grocery list. Kale and spinach both contain calcium, beta-carotene, Vitamins K and C, and so much more. They also contain powerful antioxidants which protect against certain cancers. 

Uses: I toss these into sauces, smoothies, salads, sandwiches, homemade pizzas, & scrambled eggs

Price: usually $1.89 a bunch

Avocado

Benefits: If you follow me on Instagram you know I love me some avocado. Known as one of the best healthy fats, this superfood contains many vitamins and nutrients, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. They also help reduce inflammation, and improve digestion, hair, and skin

Uses: On top of Toast, tacos, and eggs. I also put them in sandwiches, smoothies, salads, and soups

Price: usually 2 for $1 or a 1 large avocado for $1

Sweet Potato (photo credit: Weaver Sweet Market)

Benefits: Sweet potatoes are a natural source of beta-carotene and Vitamin A. They have lots of fiber to promote the growth of good bacteria which contribute to gut health. 

Uses: I’ll slice these for sweet potato toast, make baked sweet potatoes, candied yams as a side dish, sweet potato fries, hash browns, and or sauté them for a veggie bowl.

price: usually $.99

Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries)

Benefits: I absolutely can not leave the grocery store without berries! These are loaded with antioxidants and are low in calories, but high in fiber. They lower blood pressure and cholesterol and are a great source of fiber.

Uses: I mostly always include these in my smoothies, add them to oatmeal or pancakes, in salads, or as a side in a whole fruit plate.

price: usually 2 for $5

Squash (spaghetti squash, acorn squash, or butternut squash)

Benefits: Reduce the risk of heart disease, helps with weight loss, and contains an abundant amount of manganese and vitamin C to help with bone health.

Uses: I usually bake these and add toppings such as spinach or kale, cooked shrimp, tomato sauce, etc.

Price: usually $.99/lb

Beans (lentils, garbanzo/chickpea, red beans, bean soup mixes, etc)

Benefits: Great source of protein for us minimal to non meat eaters. High in antioxidants and reduce the risks of cancer

Uses: Soups, stews, bean burgers (pinto or black), red beans and rice, and chickpea stew.

price: usually $.99/lb

Nuts (Almond, Cashews, unsalted unshelled sunflower seed)

Benefits: great source of healthy fat, fiber, and like beans they’re a great source of protein. Also packed with vitamins and minerals like magnesium and vitamin E.

Uses: I use these for snacks by combining them with dried fruit or eating them alone. I also add them to oatmeals, salads, and granola.

price: usually $5.99/lb

Oats (steel cut or old fashion)

Benefits: Very filling and helps with weight loss. Great for heart health and blood sugar control.

Uses: I mainly use these for breakfast. Whether I’m boiling them, adding them to a smoothie or bean burger, I love oats. I also use old fashion oats to make my homemade granolas (click the link for my recipe)

Price: $.99/lb

If you’re ever at Sprouts be sure to add some of these to your cart. You want regret it.