Maximize Your Health and Savings: Best Grocery Picks at Costco
Costco has become a go-to destination for those looking to save money, especially when it comes to grocery shopping. This retail giant offers everything from everyday essentials to luxury items, and its wide selection does not come at the expense of nutrition. With rising food costs, many are turning to Costco to find healthy grocery options that won’t break the bank.
Strategic Shopping for Nutrition
While shopping at Costco might seem overwhelming due to its vast inventory, savvy shoppers can find numerous nutritious items amongst the larger-than-life packages. To help you navigate your next visit, we curated a list of the best shelf-stable packaged foods that can help support your health goals while being budget-friendly.
Kirkland Signature Extra Fancy Mixed Nuts
The Kirkland Signature Extra Fancy Mixed Nuts (2.5 lb. bag) offers a blend of almonds, cashews, pecans, and pistachios. Rich in beneficial fats, protein, and fiber, this mix serves as a healthy and filling snack. At approximately $15, this unsalted option is perfect for enhancing meals or enjoying on its own. Studies indicate that consuming tree nuts can improve various heart health markers.
Bob’s Red Mill Organic Quick Cooking Steel Cut Oats
Bob’s Red Mill Organic Quick Cooking Steel Cut Oats (7 lb. bag) provide a nutritious breakfast without a hefty sugar content. Costing about $0.13 per ounce, these oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which research links to improved cholesterol levels and better blood sugar response compared to more processed cereal options.
Kirkland Signature Protein Bar, Variety Pack
The Kirkland Signature Protein Bar (box of 20 bars) is an economical choice for muscle-building snacks, costing just over $1 per bar. Each serving packs 21-22 grams of protein, 10 grams of fiber, and minimal added sugars. They make for a satisfying and healthy treat anytime during the day.
Chosen Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil
Costco’s Chosen Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil (2 L. bottle) is ideal for cooking and dressings. Priced competitively, this neutral oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, recognized for their heart-health benefits, making it a versatile kitchen staple.
Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice
The Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice with Garlic (box of 6 pouches) offers a convenient side dish. These microwavable pouches make meal prep easy and are a source of whole grains, which research suggests may help improve blood sugar levels.
Kirkland Signature Organic Peanut Butter
The Kirkland Signature Organic Peanut Butter (2 jars, 28 oz each) provides a healthy, creamy spread made simply with peanuts and sea salt. At about $13, it offers a source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, ideal for pairing with a variety of foods.
Country Archer Grass-Fed Beef Stick Minis
Country Archer Grass-Fed Beef Stick Minis (bag of 28 sticks) offer 4 grams of protein each without added sugars, making them a convenient snack for high-protein diets. Priced at approximately $20, they are a suitable option for on-the-go snacking.
Kirkland Signature Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon
The Kirkland Signature Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon (6 cans) is not only cost-effective at around $17.99 but also packed with crucial nutrients like protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers.
Kirkland Signature Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums
The Kirkland Signature Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums (3.5 lb. bag) serve as nature’s candy, containing antioxidants and dietary fiber without added sugars. Their price at $12 makes them an economical choice for a sweet, healthy snack.
Kirkland Signature Whey Protein, Creamy Chocolate
The Kirkland Signature Whey Protein (5.4 lb. bag) offers a budget-friendly source of protein at approximately $0.80 per serving. This economical choice makes it simple to incorporate into various meals for additional protein intake while delighting in its chocolate flavor.
NuTrail No Sugar Added Keto Nut Granola Blueberry Cinnamon
NuTrail No Sugar Added Keto Nut Granola (2-pack, 22 oz bags) is an excellent option for those watching sugar intake. This granola is enriched with nuts and seeds while being free from added sugars, giving you a crunchy, nutritious breakfast alternative.
Simple Mills Almond Flour Sea Salt Crackers
The Simple Mills Almond Flour Sea Salt Crackers (2 boxes, 10 oz each) provide a nutritious alternative to traditional crackers, made from a blend of nuts and seeds. They are competitively priced at Costco, making them a great snack choice.
Recipe Idea: Power Oatmeal
Transform your Costco finds into a nutritious breakfast with this simple Power Oatmeal recipe:
- 1/2 cup Bob’s Red Mill Quick Cooking Steel Cut Oats
- 1/3 cup Kirkland Signature Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 scoop Kirkland Signature Whey Protein
- 1/3 cup Kirkland Signature Extra Fancy Mixed Nuts
Instructions: In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water and a pinch of salt to a boil. Stir in the oats and cinnamon, reduce heat, and simmer for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mix in the protein powder, remove from heat, and cover for 2 minutes. Serve topped with mixed nuts.
By focusing on these nutritious options during your Costco shopping trips, you can enjoy a balanced diet while keeping your grocery expenses in check.