I'm a dietitian on the Mediterranean diet. Here are 14 things I buy at Costco as someone who doesn't cook much.

Lauren ManakerJan 14, 2024, 07:01 IST

Costco has some great Mediterranean-diet staples.Lauren Manaker

I've been a dietitian for over 20 years and follow the Mediterranean diet, but I'm not a big cook.
Quinoa, feta cheese, olive oil, and baby spinach are staples in my kitchen.

As a dietitian, I'm convinced that following a Mediterranean-style diet is one of the best ways to support my overall health.

From a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer to supporting overall healthy aging, the dietary pattern is linked to many benefits.

But eating a diet rich in healthy fats, plant-based proteins, and can be challenging at times, especially since I don't love to cook. Thankfully, Costco has affordable solutions to help me stick to the Med diet. I don't love the plastic waste associated with using some of these choices, but in a pinch, they serve their purpose.

When I make a Costco run, here are 15 of my favorite things to buy.

I buy pistachios for a boost of protein.

Costco sells big bags of Wonderful pistachios. Lauren Manaker

Milton’s cauliflower-crust pizza is great for pizza night.

I like that my family gets some hidden veggies on pizza night with Milton's cauliflower pizzas.Lauren Manaker

That’s It dark-chocolate fig truffles are one of my favorite treats.

Costco sells big bags of my favorite dark-chocolate truffles. Lauren Manaker

Quinoa is a major staple in my house.

I can get a huge bag of uncooked quinoa at Costco. Lauren Manaker

I always reach for Primal Kitchen's avocado-lime sauce and dressing.

I can get a pack of two Primal Kitchen dressings at Costco. Lauren Manaker

Kirkland Signature organic extra-virgin olive oil has so many uses.

I definitely go through Costco's big jug of olive oil. Lauren Manaker

I'm a big fan of walnuts, and Costco sells them in bulk.

I like the Kirkland walnuts at Costco. Lauren Manaker

Feta cheese is my go-to dairy product.

I don't eat a ton of dairy on the Med diet, but I love feta cheese. Lauren Manaker

Kirkland's frozen broccoli is a time-saver.

I can have dinner ready quicker with precut veggies. Lauren Manaker

Salmon is one of my favorite dinner proteins.

Costco usually has some great deals on salmon. Lauren Manaker

Prunes might not be the most popular dried fruit, but I love them.

Prunes are dried plums, and they're a great low-sugar ingredient. Lauren Manaker

I buy my canned chickpeas at Costco.

I can get a huge case of canned beans at Costco. Lauren Manaker

I add a handful of baby spinach to so many meals.

Costco's baby spinach comes in a big box. Lauren Manaker

I love how affordable berries are at Costco.

I like to buy fresh berries, and Costco sells big cartons of Driscoll's.Lauren Manaker

I always have hummus in my fridge.

Costco sells big boxes of individual hummus packs. Lauren Manaker

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