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- I’m a dietitian and mom of 2. I swear by these 7 Costco buys to make nutritious meals for my family in under 30 minutes. (businessinsider.com)
Local Dietitian Shares Top Costco Picks for Busy Weeknight Dinners
**Even for a registered dietitian and mother of two, the age-old question of “What’s for dinner?” can be a daunting one.
Between demanding work schedules and a whirlwind of after-school activities, getting a nutritious, balanced meal on the table quickly is a constant challenge. **
However, one local mom and dietitian, Ana Reisdorf, has cracked the code using her weekly Costco run as her secret weapon. She relies on a curated list of Costco staples to whip up flavorful and healthy dinners for her family of four, often in under 30 minutes.
“No matter how busy I get, I always try to prepare a balanced, nutritious dinner with a high-quality protein and at least one vegetable for my family,” Reisdorf stated.
Here’s a look at seven of her go-to Costco products that help her achieve this goal:
1. Amylu Chicken Meatballs: The Versatile Protein Powerhouse
For quick and easy meals, Amylu chicken meatballs are a star player in Reisdorf’s kitchen. Each meatball boasts approximately 3.5 grams of protein, making them a satisfying option.
They can be served on their own, paired with brown rice and vegetables, or even tossed with pasta or zoodles. Reisdorf notes they reheat exceptionally well and are a reliable, kid-friendly choice for those hectic nights.
She always keeps a pack in the freezer for backup.
2. Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce: A Taste of Homemade Without the Hassle
A good marinara sauce can elevate a simple meal, and Rao’s Homemade is Reisdorf’s top pick from Costco. She praises its quality and lack of added sugar, a common issue with many jarred sauces.
The rich flavor means no extra spices are needed. This sauce often finds its way into dishes with the Amylu meatballs and spaghetti, baked chicken, or even as a quick pizza base.
3. Kevin’s Natural Foods Roasted-Garlic Chicken: Effortless Heat-and-Serve
Costco’s selection of heat-and-serve proteins is a lifesaver, and Kevin’s Natural Foods’ roasted-garlic chicken is a consistent favorite. Providing 21 grams of protein per 5-ounce serving, this item offers a convenient and long-lasting option for a quick weeknight meal that pairs seamlessly with various sides.
4. Cuisine Solutions Sliced Grass-Fed Beef Sirloin: Steak Night Made Simple
For those who enjoy beef, Cuisine Solutions’ sliced grass-fed beef sirloin takes the guesswork out of preparation. Fully cooked and delivering 19 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, it’s a versatile addition to tacos, salads, or soups.
5. Taylor Farms Salad Kits: Instant Green Goodness
Getting greens on the table is a breeze with Taylor Farms salad kits. Reisdorf simply adds a protein to create a delicious and complete salad in under five minutes. With a variety of kits available at Costco, she can easily switch up flavors and ingredients each week.
6. Raw Vegetables (Tomatoes & Cucumbers): Kid-Approved Sides
Reisdorf’s children prefer raw vegetables, making a simple cucumber and tomato salad a weekly staple. A three-pack of cucumbers from Costco provides enough for the entire week, offering fiber and bone-supporting vitamin K.
Paired with immunity-boosting vitamin C from a variety of tomatoes, this simple side is a family favorite. A drizzle of olive oil, salt, and vinegar is all it takes to bring this fresh salad together.
7. Kirkland Signature Chicken-Tortilla Soup: The Ultimate Busy Night Solution
On the busiest of nights, when dinner needs to be on the table in under 10 minutes, premade soups like Kirkland Signature’s chicken-tortilla soup are her go-to. While acknowledging that some soups can be high in sodium, this particular option offers tomatoes, corn, peppers, and a respectable 12 grams of protein per cup, providing a nourishing and comforting meal that satisfies everyone.