Moreover, my top choices for utilizing them.
Reviewed by Registered Dietitian Maria Laura Haddad-Garcia
Costco enjoys a devoted customer base, which makes perfect sense when you consider their offerings. The items they sell are affordably priced and frequently updated according to the season, ensuring consistent quality. Perhaps what stands out the most is that everything comes in large quantities. Although our household consists of just two people, not every bulk item aligns with our needs. Nonetheless, there are specific essentials I consistently replenish whenever I visit every few months. Among these staples from Costco, many come under the Kirkland Signature label because they tend to be more economical compared to alternative options, and quite often, I find them tastier as well.
These are the Kirkland Signature items I purchase each time I visit Costco, along with my reasons for enjoying them immensely.
Related: I'm a Dietitian & These Are the 6 Canned Goods I Regularly Purchase at Costco
1. Canned Tomatoes
Living in Vermont, there are just a few summertime months when I prefer using a fresh tomato over a canned one. Because of this, canned tomatoes are an item I often keep on hand. constantly keep in my pantry And they indeed provide additional antioxidants that combat inflammation. lycopene because they're treated with heat to maintain preservation. These are convenient for incorporating vegetables into soups and stews, and can serve as the foundation for a simple, well-rounded dish. Shakshuka (which I make nearly every week). Rather than buying a few cans at a time at the grocery store, I opt for getting them from Costco. The Kirkland Signature Organic Diced Tomatoes come in a pack of 8 for just $7.99, less than a dollar per can compared to more than $2 per can for similar products at other stores.
2. Canned Tuna
Fresh fish can get pretty pricey, and doesn’t last very long after you buy it. To help me up my intake to the suggested consuming two portions each week Within my budget, I consistently keep canned fish available. Most commonly, this involves the Kirkland Signature Albacore Tuna. For only $19.99, you get eight 7-ounce cans. Additionally, tuna provides numerous nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids Those essential for cardiovascular wellness, cognitive function, visual acuity, and additional areas. I enjoy incorporating it into my diet. pastas , salads , casseroles , tuna cakes And essentially anywhere I would utilize pre-cooked, shredded fish.
3. Parmigiano Reggiano
My favorite budget-friendly thing to buy at Costco The Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano is a variety of cheese originating from a particular area in Italy, which needs to age for a minimum of one year, sometimes extending up to three years. In contrast, parmesan does not have such regulations, leading to variations in flavor, consistency, and overall quality. Therefore, I was quite thrilled when I found out that this two-pound piece costs only $22.99, significantly less than similar items that often go for as much as $24 per pound.
While two pounds of cheese may seem like a lot, it lasts a long time. This hard cheese will last in the fridge for up to six weeks if stored properly , and can be frozen for up to six months so you don’t have to worry about it going bad before you can use it. Its high quality makes it shine on a charcuterie board, but it’s also priced in a way that I don’t hesitate to grate it over stews or pastas or shake it into a salad dressing Don't discard the rind just yet! I store rinds in a freezer bag to utilize them later for broths and soups, similar to ours. Lentil and Vegetable Soup with Parmesan in One Pot .
4. Peanut Butter
When selecting peanut butter, I seek options containing just two components: peanuts and salt. This preference guided me towards the Kirkland Signature Organic Creamy Peanut Butter. Composed solely of dry-roasted peanuts and salt—with merely 65 milligrams of sodium per two tablespoons—it stands out. Many other brands include additional sugars or oils to modify taste and consistency. While these alternatives are perfectly enjoyable in moderation, it's worth noting that most Americans tend to consume them excessively. added sugar , which may elevate your chances of developing hypertension, diabetes, and dementia.
At our place, we consume a significant amount of peanut butter, which means those two 28-ounce jars never seem to stick around for long. While my spouse enjoys eating it right out of the container as an afternoon treat, I prefer to mix a scoop into my morning oats or slap a bit onto a piece of bread for a hearty, protein-filled start to the day.
Related: How to Select the Most Nutritious Peanut Butter, As Recommended by Nutritionists
5. Chicken Thighs
To simplify my weekly meal planning, I always ensure my freezer is well-stocked with different types of protein, such as Kirkland Signature Chicken Thighs. This way, I have pre-frozen portions ready for me to defrost and prepare anytime I'm cooking. Personally, I favor chicken thighs that still include bones and skin since this makes them more succulent when cooked; however, Costco provides options like boneless, skinless thighs and breast pieces, all available in convenient ten-pound packs. Chicken thighs serve as an excellent source of protein A nutrient essential for muscle repair and growth, promoting healthy digestion, supporting bone and skin health, along with selenium, potassium, zinc, vitamin B12, and iron.
6. Ground Beef
I also enjoy keeping Kirkland Signature Organic Ground Beef in my freezer. This incredibly versatile protein source allows me to prepare a wide range of dishes, from tacos to spaghetti meat sauce. lettuce wraps to potpie Moreover, it’s extremely nourishing. In each 3-ounce portion, you get approximately 23 grams of protein along with essential nutrients such as iron, potassium, zinc, and magnesium that our body needs to flourish. To make a packet last longer, I prefer incorporating finely chopped mushrooms similar to what we have in our recipe. Grilled Beef and Mushroom Burgers with Speedy Pickles , for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients that go unnoticed (personally, I find this makes them even juicier and more flavorful).
7. Seltzer
Every day, I have a midafternoon seltzer. I usually pour one over ice, sometimes adding a splash of fruit juice. Since I go through them quickly, I like to buy them in bulk. Kirkland Signature Sparkling Water comes in a 35-pack with three different flavors: lime, lemon and grapefruit. Their citrus-forward flavors are great for mixing up cocktails and mocktails, or I've been known to top a glass of white wine with some to make a low-ABV spritz.
The Bottom Line
Opting for store brand products is a great way to save money on your grocery bill, and Costco is no exception. Kirkland Signature items have a loyal following for their low prices, high quality and versatility. Whether it’s canned goods like tuna and tomatoes or staples like oats and peanut butter, I always have some Kirkland products in my Costco cart. Having a well-stocked pantry and freezer helps me make weeknight cooking easier and more budget-friendly, too.
Read the initial article on Eating Well .
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