As a registered dietitian, busy mom, and Costco executive member, I’m always looking for foods that will give me the biggest nutritional bang for my buck while keeping grocery costs manageable.
With food prices continuing to rise, I focus on stocking my kitchen with versatile staples that make it easier to make balanced meals and snacks for my family. Although Costco isn’t my closest grocery store, I make the trip every few weeks to pick up essentials.
One of the things I appreciate most about Costco is the wide variety of products available in one place, making it easy to stock up on items we use regularly.
These bulk staples help me pull together meals that are both nutritious and budget-friendly.
Plainville Farms organic ground turkey is an essential in my household.
Organic ground turkey is one of my favorite protein purchases at Costco. I can typically get a 3-pound package for about $20; meanwhile, a 1-pound package usually costs around $10 at my local grocery store.
I use this in everything from tacos and burgers to meat sauce for pasta.
I always stock up on Kirkland Signature organic eggs.
Eggs are one of the most versatile foods in my kitchen, and something I make weekly. Not only are eggs a great source of protein on their own, but they’re a perfect addition to any meal or snack.
At the start of the week, I use my egg steamer to make hard-boiled eggs for easy breakfasts and snacks. We also love having veggie omelets or frittatas for dinner at least once a week.
Chobani’s low-fat, plain Greek yogurt goes a long way for us.
Plain Greek yogurt is a refrigerator staple in my house. It’s rich in protein and makes a delicious, creamy base for breakfast bowls and fruit parfaits.
I often add it to my smoothies or pair it with frozen berries and walnuts for a balanced breakfast or afternoon snack when I need something satisfying between meals. It’s also delicious as a protein-rich substitute for sour cream in tacos.
One Degree Organic Foods’ rolled oats are a pantry staple for us.
Oats are one of the most budget-friendly pantry staples I buy.
I’ll buy a large, 5-pound bag for about $12.50, then use the oats in multiple ways throughout the week. They’re versatile, affordable, and high in fiber, which makes meals and snacks more nutritious.
In addition to using them for stovetop oatmeal and overnight oats, I often grind these into oat flour for baking muffins, waffles, and pancakes.
Frozen blueberries and strawberries are must-buys for healthy breakfasts and sweet treats alike.
Frozen blueberries and strawberries are two of my favorite Costco purchases — stocking up on these makes it easy to always have fruit available.
Fresh berries can spoil quickly, so buying frozen fruit in bulk helps reduce waste while ensuring we always have nutrient-dense fruit on hand.
Although smoothies are a popular use for these, I enjoy them most in cold cereal, yogurt bowls, and baked goods. I’ll also thaw them and mix with Greek yogurt or oatmeal.
I always buy nuts at Costco, and Kirkland Signature walnuts are my favorite.
Although I purchase all my nuts at Costco, walnuts are the ones I tend to grab most often. Buying them in bulk is easier on my wallet than purchasing smaller packages elsewhere. To maintain freshness, I always keep some in a sealed container, and freeze the rest.
I use walnuts in a variety of ways, including adding them to oatmeal, yogurt, salads, and homemade grab-and-go snack mixes.
Kirkland Signature organic mixed vegetables and organic broccoli always make it into my cart.
Frozen vegetables are one of my favorite ways to add more nutrition to meals while reducing food waste.
I keep bulk bags of Kirkland Signature organic mixed vegetables and broccoli florets in my freezer to use in stir-fries, soups, grain bowls, and casseroles. Having these veggies is a great way to ensure we’re having balanced dinners, especially during busy weeks.
Keep reading our other Costco Diaries to see what chefs, dietitians, and other shoppers love buying at the chain.
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