Going Vegan? Here are the staple vegan grocery items

As the new year creeps up slowly, we are all wondering: what will 2021 have in store? Will we see a swift end to the coronavirus? Will we be more financially stable? How can we be healthier?


Some may be setting resolutions or goals for New Years'. Two years ago, I sent "environmental new years resolutions". This eventually led me to transition to a plant-based diet in February of that year. Some may be wanting to consume less meat or dairy, go vegetarian, or go vegan. This can seem overwhelming, to say the least. When I went vegan, I had NO CLUE where to start but I remember living off smoothies and edamame for the first bit. Whatever your goals are, there are some grocery store staples most vegan recipes will call for. So next time you put in your grocery order or mask up and head to the trenches, pick up some of these items to prepare for a healthier new year with yummy plant-based recipes. 

1. Nutritional yeast. This is typically found on the spices aisle (although it's called a yeast). This handy item is used in many recipes to replace the cheesy flavor, without the dairy. 
2. Garlic. Save yourself the time and buy it minced. Although used in non-vegan recipes, I use garlic in my evening meals almost every day! 
3. Oat milk. Although more expensive, pass on the almond milk. Oat milk is a bit better for the environment and does not give off the sweet taste in cooking that most almond milk does. There are several recipes to "make your own" oat milk using oats, water, and a blender/food processor. Although I have yet to try (new 2021 adventure?!) it would cut down on costs. 
4. Olive oil. Another staple for most recipes and always good to add to the grocery list. Olive oil is a healthy fat! 
5. Tofu. Although not liked by all, tofu is a great source of protein and can be used ina variety of recipes. From tofu curry ramen, tofu taco "meat, and tofu scrambles, you can find a variety of uses for this soy product. To me, it's all about the spice. What tofu lacks in appearance, it gains when given the right spices. 
6. Nuts. Another healthy fat and packed with protein, nuts can save the day when you are feeling hungry. You can eat them as a snack, throw them into a salad, bake them into bread, or use a food processor/blender to whip them into a protein-packed pesto sauce. 
7. Pasta. I always have a package of pasta (or somedays ramen) ready to go when I am tired and don't feel like cooking a full-on meal. Most store-bought pasta packages are vegan, but I always check the ingredients label to be sure! 

Although there is an infinite list of other vegan items you may want to buy, these are the must-have pantry staples! ​