I’ve been asked about my shopping list, so I figured I’d use today’s post to present you with my must have items. I keep all of these foods in heavy rotation and find myself upset when they are not near. All other foods I can go without for extended periods of time.

I buy organic whenever possible. I’m leaving out the items that I buy for my boys; I’ll address that ball of madness at a later date.

1. Berries. Generally, I keep strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries readily available for snacking.
2. Greens. Kale, spinach and arugula are always part of my mix. My kids laugh at me for stuffing leaves in my mouth like a zoo animal.
3. Purple cabbage. I go through one head every 4 days.
4. Eggs. I buy about 4 dozen a week. Right now, they’re my favorite food.
5. Ground beef. I cook it ahead of time and eat after workouts by the spoonful.
6. Wild salmon. I buy the largest filet possible and always have individual portions in the fridge, seasoned simply with lemon, salt, pepper and paprika.
7. Peanut and almond butter. I’ll rotate the two on my morning toast.
8. Ezekiel sprouted grain bread. This is my one daily grain. I eat it with nut butter; it’s the perfect complement to the bitterness of my next item.
9. Coffee, ground for French press. I don’t go a day without this ritual.
10. Apples. I’m sort of a connoisseur (kisses muscles). Textures, colors, smells, tastes, I’ve got you, fire away.
11. Celery. If I’m eating because I’m bored, not with purpose or for flavor, I land here. #Crunch
12. Chicken. I buy it pre-made, whole, breasts, thighs, whatever catches my eye. Butter makes it better.
13. Tuna in a can. Only for convenience. I don’t drain it; I eat it fast.
14. Hot sauce. I can’t get enough, all different types and throw it on everything. More heat, please.
15. Sweet potatoes and/or yams. My starchy sweethearts. Delicious hot, cold, snacks, meals, dessert.
16. Oatmeal. It’s an occasional breakfast companion if I run out of my sprouted grain bread. No sweetener, the oats themselves are sweet enough. Maybe a handful of berries to brighten up an otherwise ugly food.
17. Grass fed butter. Gotta make sure my food doesn’t stick to the pan.
18. Olive oil. Another cooking helper.
19. Coconut oil. For higher heat cooking.
20. Mushrooms. Every kind. I only like them cooked, but then I adore them.

So there you have it, my twenty essential foods. What’s on your list?