Yes, this is my actual Grocery List on my chalkboard wall in my dining room. Are you just starting the Paleo lifestyle? Congrats! Here's a list of items for you to put on your paleo pantry list to pick up to help get you started...
First of all, I recommend going to a grocery store that carries high quality produce and meats. I know, I know, Whole Foods is often called "Whole Paycheck". I agree, but there ARE other options,…and I believe that health is a good investment. I do most of my shopping at Sprouts. Farmers markets are another great option. I also like that my Raley's has a big "natural food" section that carries many of the foods I can't find at other big chain stores. Costco is also catching on and carrying things like coconut flour! If you are having trouble finding certain items, don't be afraid to ask someone who works there about it…they just might be HAPPY to start stocking some healthier options! It doesn't hurt to ask;)
Proteins: Grass fed meats, free range chicken, pasture raised eggs, wild caught fish and seafood, bacon & sausage (look for nitrate-free), game meats (venison, bison, elk), jerky is great for snacks! I also always have protein powder on hand too. If you're going "no dairy", there's a great egg-white protein powder at Sprouts…it's vanilla flavored, healthy and delicious!
Vegetables: Go crazy here, the healthier the better though. Learn to love deep greens like kale and spinach…we go through tons of it. Make it easier on yourself too by getting the "super green" tubs that are pre-washed, excellent for a quick green smoothie! I avoid buying corn and russet potatoes…sweet potatoes are such a wonderful alternative! Don't forget onions, garlic, cucumbers, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, peppers…whatever you like!
Fruits: Fruits have a lot of sugar, so limit them. Berries are wonderful though, stock up. Frozen berries and frozen bananas are great for smoothies because it acts as ice! Avocados, lemons, tomatoes (fruit or veggie?…I'll list it here) are always great to have on hand.
Nuts: Like fruit, keep it on hand, but go easy. Buy raw, not roasted and salted. Have a handful of nuts if you're feeling hungry…the great thing is, a little fills you up.
Herbs/Spices: Fresh ones like basil, cilantro and parsley. Sea salt, pepper, anything is great as long as it doesn't have MSG or fillers. I usually read the ingredients and if the list is a mile long and don't recognize it as healthy, I put it back;)
Random: Almond milk (I love the unsweetened vanilla), coconut milk, chicken and beef broths, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, olives, pickles, almond butter (raw), mustard, vinegars, coconut aminos (like soy sauce!), raw honey, grade B maple syrup (use sparingly), curry paste, garbanzos, hummus, olive oil, coconut oil, ghee. There are many canned items that offer BPA-free cans now!!! Almond flour, coconut flour, ground flaxseeds and chia seeds are great in smoothies!
There are many other items to keep in your pale pantry, but I'm keeping it simple. There are so many great Paleo Recipes online these days or pick up a new Paleo cookbook and get started!! Costco is carrying some great ones! Hope this helps you get started on your Paleo lifestyle!