Food
Aug 09When planning a party, Costco’s bulk buys are a big help—especially if they’re healthy choices. Skip the super caloric nibbles and go with these wholesome picks, all approved by registered dietitian nutritionists.
Garden Lites Superfood Blend Veggie Cakes
“Besides the obvious fresh fruits and veggies, I always hit up the frozen section,” says Caroline Susie, RDN, a registered dietitian in Dallas, TX. “The 12 superfood veggie cakes are delicious and only 100 calories each. The first three ingredients make up the majority of most foods, so always take a peek at the ingredients list. The cakes’ first three ingredients are a vegetable blend of carrot, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, onion, red bell pepper, and zucchini; brown rice; and egg whites. The other fabulous thing about these cakes is they cook in no time! Pop them straight from the freezer into your microwave for 45 seconds. That’s it!” If you’re not taking advantage of your grocery’s freezer section, you should check out the 10 myths about frozen foods everyone needs to stop believing.
Angie’s Boomchickapop Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn
“I like that I can get Angie’s Boomchickapop from Costco because it makes the perfect crunchy, sweet, and salty snack that everyone loves to grab a handful of,” says Emily Kyle, MS, RDN, owner of Emily Kyle Nutrition in Rochester, NY. “The product is naturally gluten-free—and with only 70 calories and 2 grams of fiber per cup, this is one party food everyone will feel good about enjoying.”
Seedless grapes
“I love complementing my cheese platter with beautiful, delicious grapes that I pick up from Costco,” says Toby Amidor, MS, RD, a nutrition partner with Grapes from California. “They’re always a crowd pleaser at any party I throw! Grapes are a natural source of beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols, associated with numerous health benefits, from heart health to healthy aging. Polyphenols are found in every part of the grape—the skin, flesh, and seeds—and in grapes of all colors.” Costco usually sells red, green, and black grapes, in bunches ranging from three to five pounds.
Sun Date Organic Fancy Large Medjool Dates
“My quick, easy, and totally delish party dish is bacon-wrapped dates,” says Chere Bork, MS, RD, a dietitian in Minneapolis, MN. “Just wrap half a slice of bacon around a pitted date, and secure with a toothpick.” Then bake at 375° Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes, turning halfway through and cooking until the bacon is crispy. “Dates offer potassium and can help regulate our heartbeat and blood pressure,” says Bork. Make sure to soak the toothpicks in water before putting them in the oven!
