Pantry Essentials: What I Keep in My Kitchen

Pantry Essentials: What I Keep in My Kitchen

Spirulina (a green-blue algae)

Spirulina is a rich source of protein and other nutrients that can play a role in the protection of cells from damage. I love adding a teaspoon to my banana nice cream. It gives it a pretty greenish blue color!

Walnuts

Not only are they delicious but they’re a great source of omega 3 fatty acids.

Hemp seeds

Hemp Seeds are great on salads, oatmeal, smoothies, and pretty much anything! Just 2 tablespoons have 6g of fat, 2g of fiber, and 5g of protein.

Carob Chips

Carob chips are a great replacement for chocolate chips! I use them as smoothie toppings and with my Chocolate & PB Overnight Oats.

Granola

Granola is great for giving your smoothie bowl a little crunch! Be careful when buying it at the grocery story because of the added sugar. I would recommend making your own using rolled oats, almonds, vanilla extract, dates, and other whole foods. This way you can make it just how you like without all of the unhealthy ingredients processed food tend to have. Soon I’m going to try a new Rawnola recipe and I’ll keep you guys posted!

Shredded Coconut

Shredded coconut is a great topping for anything sweet. This is another great source of plant-based protein. Its important to use in moderation though! Keep in mind that 1 serving is 3 tbsp.

Chopped Pecans

Chopped pecans are perfect to add a good source of healthy fat to your plate. I love sprinkling pecans on my salads, smoothies, and oatmeal.

Cacao nibs

Cacao nibs are rich in fiber and antioxidants. Although I only use these about once a month, they are great if you want to add a rich chocolate flavor to a recipe. But be aware of the saturated fat content and make sure to measure!

Cocoa Powder

I use cocoa powder when making chocolate nice cream. Its also great to mix with pure maple syrup to make a chocolate sauce. Much better than the chocolate syrup you buy at the grocery store thats loaded in sugar and high fructose corn syrup!

Sunflower Seeds

Who doesn’t love sunflower seedsThey are so good on salads and sandwiches! They’re high in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals which we need to maintain optimal health!

Chia Seeds

I love chia seeds, if you guys couldn’t tell from all my food posts! Chia seeds have lots of health benefits and are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. If you haven’t tried chia pudding, you’re missing out.

Goji Berries

Goji berries have SO many health benefits! I was introduced to goji berries my senior year of college when one of my professors, Dr. Lin, conducted a study on its ability to prevent or delay retinal degeneration. We often turn to medications when we need to be using food as medicine.

Ground Flaxseed

Ground Flaxseed can actually be used as an egg replacement. Combine 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed (or flaxseed meal) with 3 tbsp of water and mix. This is the equivalent of one egg. If you have a favorite recipe that contains eggs and want to veganize it, this is the perfect way to do it! I’ve turned many animal-based recipes vegan by using soy or almond milk, instead of cow’s milk, and ground flaxseed in place of eggs.

 “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” -Hippocrates

All of these foods benefit your health in different ways. Keeping a variety of foods in your diet will keep you feeling energized and healthy!


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