In a bid to streamline family meal preparation, dietitian and mother of two, Maxine Yeung, highlights her go-to items from Costco that simplify nutritious cooking. Despite her expertise in nutrition, Yeung admits that meal planning can be overwhelming, especially while juggling parenting responsibilities.
Her approach emphasizes convenience without sacrificing health. By utilizing a selection of frozen, fresh, and shelf-stable items from Costco, she creates balanced meals with minimal effort. Shopping in bulk not only saves time but also reduces the frequency of grocery trips, making it easier to maintain a well-stocked kitchen.
Essentials for Quick and Healthy Meals
Yeung lists several key items that she consistently keeps on hand. Among these, Veggies Made Great’s egg-white frittatas stand out. Ready in minutes, these frittatas provide a quick source of vegetables at breakfast, containing just 70 calories and 5 grams of protein per serving.
For lunch, Yeung recommends Madras lentils from Tasty Bite. These microwavable lentils are packed with flavor and nutrients, delivering 11 grams of protein and fiber in just one minute. They can be eaten alone or paired with rice or salad, making them a versatile meal option.
When it comes to snacks, Noka organic superfood smoothies are a favorite among both children and adults. Available in bulk at Costco, these plant-based smoothies contain 5 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, with no added sugar, making them a healthy choice for on-the-go nourishment.
Frozen Favorites for Busy Weeknights
Frozen vegetables are another crucial component of Yeung’s meal strategy. She particularly favors Kirkland Signature’s frozen broccoli florets, which her children enjoy. These organic pieces can be cooked in minutes, making them an ideal side for a variety of meals.
For a more diverse vegetable option, Yeung turns to Tattooed Chef’s frozen sheet-pan vegetables. This mix of Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and zucchini simplifies meal prep; just toss the veggies with oil and seasoning, bake, and focus on other tasks while they cook.
Yeung also highlights the importance of protein in family meals. Costco offers a variety of frozen fish options, such as miso-marinated black cod from Alaskan Leader Seafoods. These fish fillets can be easily seasoned and cooked alongside vegetables for a healthy dinner.
In terms of fruits, frozen mango chunks are a year-round staple for Yeung. Priced at under $2 per pound, these organic chunks require no prep and can be added to smoothies or served as snacks.
Canned beans are another time-saving option. Yeung opts for organic black beans from S&W, which provide 7 grams of protein per half-cup serving. They can be incorporated into rice bowls, salads, and wraps, offering a convenient source of plant-based protein.
For whole grains, she loves Seeds of Change‘s heat-and-serve pouches of quinoa and brown rice, ready in just 90 seconds. Each serving contains 5 grams of protein and fiber, making it easy to create a well-rounded meal.
Finally, Yeung emphasizes the health benefits of Kirkland Signature’s hemp hearts, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. She keeps a 2-pound bag on hand, using them to enhance smoothies, oatmeal, and salads, providing over 4 grams of unsaturated fats per tablespoon.
With her curated list of Costco staples, Yeung demonstrates that nutritious meal preparation can be manageable, even for busy families. By focusing on convenience and health, she makes it easier for parents to provide balanced meals without the stress of extensive planning.
