Eating Clean and Lean: Your Wholly Mountain Shopping Guide For Trader Joe's


May 31, 2024

 by Rob Bratcher
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Eating Clean and Lean: Your BareFit Shopping Guide at Trader Joe’s

Whether you’re swinging from monkey bars at BAREFIT, or sweating through a 5 mile hike on a 90 degree day, fueling your body with the right nutrients is crucial. Today, we’re embarking on a plant-powered adventure at Trader Joe’s, creating a thrifty yet wholesome shopping list packed with lean, plant-based proteins and whole foods. This guide isn’t just for the die-hard vegans; it’s perfect for those who enjoy a steak but want to keep their diet plant-centered and unprocessed. Ready? Let’s hit the aisles!

The Lean, Green Shopping Machine: Your List

1. Organic Tofu and Tempeh

Tofu and tempeh are the dynamic duo of plant-based proteins. Packed with protein and versatile, they can fit into almost any meal.

Organic Tofu ($1.99): Perfect for stir-fries, scrambles, or even a tofu “steak.”

Organic 3 Grain Tempeh ($1.99): Great for grilling or crumbling into tacos.

2. Beans, Beans, The Musical Fruit

Beans are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, not to mention easy on the wallet.

Canned Organic Black Beans ($0.99): These make a quick addition to salads, soups, or as a side.

Canned Organic Garbanzo Beans ($0.99): Ideal for making your own hummus or roasting for a crunchy snack.

3. Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition and cook quickly, making them a meal-prep favorite.

Steamed Lentils ($3.29): Already cooked, these are perfect for tossing into salads or as a base for a hearty stew.

4. Nuts and Seeds

Add some crunch and protein to your meals with nuts and seeds.

Raw Almonds ($5.99): A handful goes a long way in boosting your protein intake.

Shelled Hemp Seeds ($5.99): Sprinkle these on anything from smoothies to salads.

5. Leafy Greens and Cruciferous Veggies

Kale, spinach, and broccoli are nutrient-dense and low in calories.

Organic Tuscan Kale ($2.49): Great for salads, smoothies, or sautéed as a side.

Organic Broccoli Florets ($2.69): Steam them, roast them, or throw them in a stir-fry.

6. Quinoa and Brown Rice

Whole grains like quinoa and brown rice are perfect for balancing out your meals.

Organic Quinoa ($4.99): This protein-rich grain is a great base for bowls or salads.

Organic Brown Rice ($3.49): Easy to cook and versatile.

7. Fresh and Frozen Fruits

Fruit is nature’s candy and provides essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Organic Blueberries ($3.99): Perfect for breakfast bowls or snacks.

Frozen Berry Medley ($3.49): Great for smoothies or a quick dessert.

8. Plant-Based Milks

Ditch the dairy and opt for nutrient-rich plant-based milks.

Organic Unsweetened Almond Beverage ($2.29): Use it in smoothies, oatmeal, or just to drink.

9. Nut Butters

Nut butters are fantastic for a quick protein boost.

Crunchy Almond Butter ($5.99): Spread on toast, add to smoothies, or eat by the spoonful (we won’t judge).
Simple Meal Ideas

1. Veggie-Packed Tofu Stir-Fry

Ingredients: Organic Tofu, Organic Broccoli Florets, Organic Tuscan Kale, Steamed Lentils, tamari sauce.

Instructions: Cube tofu and sauté with broccoli and kale. Add lentils and tamari sauce for a quick, protein-packed stir-fry.

2. Quinoa & Black Bean Salad

Ingredients: Organic Quinoa, Canned Organic Black Beans, Organic Blueberries, Raw Almonds, Shelled Hemp Seeds, olive oil, lemon juice.

Instructions: Cook quinoa, mix with black beans, blueberries, chopped almonds, and hemp seeds. Dress with olive oil and lemon juice.

3. Nutty Berry Smoothie

Ingredients: Frozen Berry Medley, Organic Unsweetened Almond Beverage, Crunchy Almond Butter, Shelled Hemp Seeds.

Instructions: Blend berries, almond beverage, and almond butter. Top with hemp seeds.

Budget Tips

Shop Seasonally: Fruits and veggies are cheaper when they’re in season.

Buy in Bulk: Items like quinoa, nuts, and seeds are often more economical in larger quantities.

Meal Prep: Plan your meals to avoid food waste and save money.

Wrapping It Up

At BareFit, we’re all about balance and fueling our bodies with the best. By filling your cart with these Trader Joe’s goodies, you’re setting yourself up for success—without breaking the bank. Remember, healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. So, go ahead, stock up on these plant-based proteins, and watch your gains (both in and out of the gym) soar!

Happy shopping and even happier eating!

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