Grocery shopping has become quite the occasion around here. It’s one of the few times I allow myself to be out of the house. I’ve reigned back on quarantine shopping, so it’s also one of the few times I allow myself to purchase things.
Before quarantine, I made the habit of going to the grocery store once per week. It never felt like a chore. I’ve actually always enjoyed grocery shopping. But now, I only shop every two weeks with a few restaurant runs in-between to supplement my meals. Because I make most of my food at home, it’s paramount I have everything I need. Here’s what I’ve been doing to make it as efficient, easy, and fun as possible:
Pantry Staples: Order Online for Shelf-Stable Products
In an effort to minimize contact with others, I’ve used an online delivery service called Thrive for my pantry staples like olive oil, coconut milk, nut butters, honey, and canned items. I like to think of it as the “Costco of health foods”. I keep a running cart open when I need new items and hit “Purchase” when I hit the free shipping minimum of $50.
Though I’m not on any special lifestyle diets like vegan, Whole30, or paleo, I love that you can filter your preferences to find items that fit your needs. Orders come through for me in about a week. Thrive has a great referral program as well. If you’re interested in using the service, click here to get 25% off your first order.
Fresh Produce and Other Perishables: Pick Up Every Two Weeks
Every two weeks, I pick up fresh produce from Sprouts, H-E-B, or Whole Foods on a Friday afternoon. It’s an underrated time to go to the store. Most people aren’t inclined to go shopping at the end of the week, so it’s usually less busy. I bring my favorite reusable mesh produce bags and grocery bags and try to keep it fairly simple following a list of staples on what I call my “Master Groceries List”. My last purchase consisted of: everything below, free-range organic chicken thighs, tons of eggs, milk, and unsalted butter. I’ve been interested in trying a produce delivery service like Austin-based Good Apple Foods or even signing up for a CSA, but I’m still weighing my options. If you have any experience with a produce box, please let me know in the comments!
Extras: Order From Local Restaurants and Spread Across Meals
I love to cook, but wow, this season has been a lot. If I’m not in the mood to cook or I’m just looking to treat myself, I’ll grab takeout from an Austin-based restaurant in an effort to support my local businesses—a win-win situation. My favorite and most memorable meals in the last few months have been: take-out from my favorite Thai restaurant Titaya’s, Ethiopian food at Habesha, and dependable Pluckers. I’ll typically eat some on one night, and spread leftovers across a few meals to change it up.
How are you tackling groceries right now? Are they an adventure or a chore right now? Tell me below!
