We might also call 2020 the year of the plant-based diet plan: Meat eaters, flexitarians and vegetarians around the country are embracing more than one Meatless Monday meal a week. Plant-based newbie or not, you may require food-shopping inspiration when it comes to healthy vegetarian grocery choices. And even better when those plant-centric eats are sold at deal costs at ALDI. We tapped plant-based dietitians who happen to be ALDI regulars for the items they can’t leave the store without.1. Red GrapesAs a plant-forward registered dietitian nutritional expert, I can’t go to ALDI without grabbing a bag of grapes. To me, they are among nature’s sweetest treats, whether I consume them straight from the bag or frozen. And they’re incredibly hydrating, with a water content over 80 percent. They often end up being an investment, with prices as high as $3.99 per pound at the normal grocery store. At my local ALDI in Union City, NJ, I can score them for simply a little over $1 a pound.2. AvocadosWhile you remain in the produce aisle, make the most of the cost effective avocados at ALDI. “Avocados are my preferred source of heart-healthy, unsaturated fats,” says Erin Hendrickson, RDN, a Nashville-based dietitian focusing on reduced food waste. “This healthy fat helps the body take in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K from other veggies– so avocado and a vegetable-packed salad are the best set!” Janeiro notes that an avocado costs as little $.39 cents at her local store.3. ZucchiniHere’s a vegetable that’s an outstanding source of immunity-helping vitamin C. “The vegetable is flexible for grilling, casseroles, stir-fries and stuffing,” states Melissa Altman-Traub, MS, RDN, a dietitian in Jamison, PA. “Zucchini is an actually economical vegetable at ALDI for those times of the year when regional gardens aren’t rupturing with them.” To be exact, you can get a 20- ounce bag of the vegetable for less than $2 in Union City, NJ.4. Basic Nature Organic Tomato & Basil Pasta SauceA benefit of shopping at ALDI: You get organic offerings for lower costs. This pasta sauce is a favorite of Lindsey Janeiro, RDN, a dietitian in Jackson, TN. “Not just does it taste tasty, it has really easy active ingredients with no added sugar or oil,” she states. “Plus, a half cup has a complete serving of vegetables in it!” Janeiro isn’t the only nutritionist who’s a fan: The sauce wears a “Good House cleaning” Nutritionist-Approved seal.5. Dakota’s Pride Black BeansGo ahead and pick up this BPA-free can next time you’re at ALDI. “The active ingredients are minimal: just beans, water and salt,” says Lisa Andrews, Medication, RD, a dietitian in Cincinnati, OH, who notes the canned food is a staple in her house. “Nutritionally speaking, you can’t beat beans,” she adds. “They’re an economical form of protein.” They’re likewise an exceptional source of filling fiber.
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