Preparing for the first grocery bill

In fact, it was a grocery-run all for myself – my first one after moving out from home and into my own apartment. I didn’t keep the bill after unpacking the trunk-full of bags, but if I remember correctly, it as well over $200. That’s close to what the average family of four spends on groceries a week.

My first grocery bill had me a bit worried. I couldn’t possibly afford $200 every week, and the thought had me wishing I was back at home helping mom unpack her weekly grocery haul for the family.

Of course, the amount I hand over to the cashier has since dipped to between $30 and $50, depending on how kitchen-creative I feel that week. It’s a good thing I don’t need to buy dish towels, flour, and mustard every time I head to the supermarket.

Remembering that first grocery trip really makes me think about all the stuff I have in my kitchen. Even though I might sometimes feel otherwise (especially in the days leading up to payday and the next grocery-run), “there’s nothing to eat in the house” is not something I have ever really been able to say. There’s that can of tuna hiding behind the clam chowder and tomato soup in the cupboard, and I’m pretty sure I haven’t eaten the frozen pizza sitting in the freezer.

I’m sure I’ve mentioned this in a past column, but shopping at the supermarket is not one of my most favourite activities. Heading down the aisles on your very first grocery run with an overstuffed shopping cart, wondering what the heck you’re forgetting really doesn’t help, either. The one big mistake I made was that I didn’t sit down and write out a list before tackling the grocery store. In retrospect, though, I think I can single out a few of the essential items anyone who has just moved needs in their kitchen: flour, sugar, salt, and pepper always come in very handy, as do basic spices like Italian seasoning (a mix of a number of herbs), and ground chilli if you are like me and enjoy spicy foods every now and then. A bottle of oil (I prefer olive oil) is good for cooking, and if you pick up a small thing of balsamic vinegar, you can make an easy dressing for salads. Don’t forget coffee and/or tea, as well as some cereal for breakfast. I also always try to have dried pasta and pasta sauces, canned and dried soups, a frozen pizza or two, and some canned tuna in my kitchen for those days when cooking a more elaborate supper just doesn’t appeal to me. Also, don’t forget about condiments like ketchup, mustard, relish, and mayo. They’re not something you’ll have to think about every week, but they sure do come in handy.

Dish soap, dish towels, kitchen cleaners, and storage bags and containers are a must as well. The latter is great for freezing leftovers, or, if you live alone, splitting up and freezing meat portions after you buy them to avoid wasting food.

As for perishable foods, it’s probably a good idea if you have butter, eggs, milk, and a loaf of bread for toast and sandwiches in your cart. Now all that’s left is some meat to stick in the freezer, and a few fresh fruits and vegetables, and you should be set.

Of course, as I always do at the grocery store, I’m probably forgetting something, so if you can think of anything that should be included on that first grocery list, feel free to leave a comment or send me an e-mail. Happy moving!