summer

8 Summer Little Luxuries — for $5 or Less! — to Pick Up at Whole Foods

published Jul 5, 2023
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Woman holding Whole Foods bag filled with groceries while walking down the street
Credit: Joe Lingeman

When I step into a Whole Foods store, I feel an unmistakable rush of adrenaline. I was born to shop for groceries, and my family often jokes that it’s my number-one hobby. I love combing the aisles for new snacks and finding deals on old favorites. For me, no two trips to the grocery store are quite the same — each one is a little adventure. 

Here, I’m sharing a selection of little luxuries I love to add to my Whole Foods cart. And the best part is they’re all available for $5 or less!

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

1. Peperoncino Tarali, $4.19 for 8.81 ounces

The perfect crunchy complement to charcuterie and cheese, these Puglian specialties, beloved by Kitchn contributors, are lightly spiced with crushed red pepper to bring in just the right amount of heat. 

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

2. Coolhaus Dairy Free Dirty Mint Chip Ice Cream Sandwich, $4.99 for 5.8 ounces

I, a dairy eater, didn’t realize that this ice cream sandwich was dairy-free until I got to the privacy of my car, where I planned to enjoy it. And I’m happy to report that not a sliver of enjoyment was compromised. Double chocolate cookies sandwich a subtly minty chip-flecked ice cream in this handheld sweet treat.

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

3. Clio Strawberry Greek Yogurt Bar, $1.69 for 1.76 ounces

If you’re in the mood for a sweet, high-protein midday pick-me-up, these Greek Yogurt bars will do the trick. A good source of protein (8 grams each), these bars have a sweet and tangy cheesecake-esque filling enrobed in a snappy layer of dark chocolate.

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

4. Prosciutto di San Daniele, $4.49 for 1 ounce

It’s a bit tricky to find DOC prosciutto for under $5, but Principe has made it possible with its one-ounce packs of Prosciutto di San Daniele — an ideal addition to picnics and a great snack to pop in your pool bag.

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

5. Omsom Spicy Bulgogi Marinade, $3.79 for 2.4 ounces 

Whether you’ve got a block of tofu, pork chops, or a head of cauliflower in your cart, this packet of bulgogi marinade will take it straight to Flavortown. Meant for one pound of protein or veggies, these easy-to-use marinades deliver a smoky sweetness with a hint of spice. 

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

6. Pop & Bottle Oat Milk Latte, $3.79 for 10.5 ounces

I love keeping my fridge stocked with these canned, date-sweetened oat milk lattes because they keep me cool and caffeinated as I’m working from home. Look for them in the grab-and-go section.

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

7. Michel et Augustin Croissant Chips, $4.99 for 3 ounces

Finally, someone has figured out how to take croissants to a snacky place. These crispy croissant chips pack satisfying crunch and buttery sweetness into every bite. They’re great for eating out of the bag or using as a crunchy garnish on an ice cream sundae.

Credit: Stephanie Ganz

8. Ruby Sparkling Hibiscus Water, $2.99 for 12 ounces

My fellow drink girlies know that Whole Foods is the spot to cop the best quaffs, and Ruby’s tangy and refreshing Sparkling Hibiscus Water is exhibit A for that argument. It’s got a bright, tart flavor and zero artificial sweeteners or additives.

What little luxuries are you stocking up on at Whole Foods this summer? Tell us in the comments.