8 Frozen Groceries This Registered Dietitian Always Buys at Costco

Frozen groceries are an absolute lifesaver, particularly on busy days when I simply can’t make it to the grocery store. While it would be nice to have fresh food on hand every single day of the week, that is simply not the case in my chaotic world. 

Some people are surprised to learn, as a registered dietitian, that I am comfortable leaning on frozen food options. Many assume that frozen items are not a good-for-you choice — a myth that needs to be put to rest right now. Frozen food can be just as nutritious as fresh, and with a convenience factor that can’t be beat.

Which brings me to Costco, where the frozen foods section should definitely not be skipped. Among the rows and rows of freezer finds at Costco, these are the items that always find a way into my shopping cart.

I love a hearty veggie burger, and Dr. Praeger’s Organic California Veggie Burgers are loaded with five-star ingredients (think: carrots, peas, and zucchini, to name a few). Plus, they’re easy to cook and totally versatile. While you can certainly enjoy them on a classic burger bun, they’re also a great addition to a grain bowl or wrap, or on top of a salad. 

Made with just lime juice, lime extract, cane sugar, and water, these pops are bursting with fresh lime flavor. They’re the zesty, refreshing frozen treat I crave at the end of the day.

While I would love to whip up a frittata from scratch, I simply don’t have time on busy mornings. Veggies Made Great Spinach Egg White Frittatas are pre-made, individual-sized frittatas that can easily be heated in the microwave. Made with real eggs and vegetables, one frittata contains satisfying protein and is a source of key vitamins and minerals. In less than two minutes, and without any pans to clean, I can enjoy a high-quality and totally delicious breakfast.

Frozen blueberries have the same satisfying taste as fresh, and they are just as packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. And because the freezing process preserves these berries, there are no worries about them going “bad” shortly after you bring them into your home. I add organic frozen blueberries to yogurt parfaits and smoothies — and on hot days, I just eat them on their own for an ice-cold, sweet treat. 

I have a confession to make: I don’t love cauliflower rice. I think it tastes bland and would much rather eat regular rice with my dishes. The exception is the Tattooed Chef Organic Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry stocked in my freezer. This side dish is incredibly satisfying and bursting with amazing flavor. (I am just as happy eating this rice as I am eating stir-fried rice from a restaurant.) It gives my meals a boost of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the cauliflower and other veggies that it contains. 

Salmon is chock-full of good-for-you nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and vitamin B12. But making it to the grocery store to snag fresh fish every week just doesn’t happen for me. Frozen fish is just as nutritious as frozen, and it is super-convenient. I simply thaw the salmon, marinate it, and bake it for a simple and healthy dinner choice. 

Broccoli might not be the most exciting addition to your grocery cart, but it is a great staple to have in your freezer when you are trying to get a well-balanced dinner on the table. Cooked frozen broccoli is also an easy way to make your takeout order a bit more nutritious. If your meal doesn’t have a ton of veggies, simply add a handful of nuked broccoli to your dish for some extra fiber, vitamins, and minerals. 

These acai bowls are a virtuous treat that my family is always happy to eat. Loaded with antioxidants, these bowls are naturally sweet and taste great topped with a dollop of nut butter and a sprinkle of chia seeds. 

What frozen groceries from Costco do you buy on repeat? Tell us in the comments below