8 Things a Nutritionist Always Buys at Aldi
From bottled mango mimosas to chocolate-stuffed Belgian waffles, Aldi is filled wall-to-wall with indulgent foods that are great in moderation. But it’s also a mecca for healthy items, so we checked in with Ashley Koff, RD, the CEO of The Better Nutrition Program and a consultant for Califia Farms, for the eight things she never leaves her local Aldi without.
1. Califia Farms Toasted Coconut Almond Milk
“This is my go-to plant-based milk,” Koff tells us. “It’s creamy, has no sugar and the toasted coconut adds a little more flavor.” Her favorite way to use it? Mixed into a post-workout or midday smoothie with frozen organic berries.
2. Frozen Organic Blueberries
Speaking of berries, Koff is a huge fan of Aldi’s frozen offerings. “They’re sweet, naturally low in sugar and, because they’re frozen, I can enjoy them year round,” she explains, adding that Aldi’s frozen fruit is a budget-friendly and nutritious way to have fruits on hand throughout the year.
3. Organic Mixed Greens
“I stock my fridge with greens,” Koff says. She adds hers to egg scrambles and uses them to turn leftovers into salads. The best kind of upcycling, if you ask us.
4. Salsa
Another way to take eggs and salads to the next level is eating them with salsa, which Koff says she loves as a way to get in tomatoes and spices. She also, obviously, swears by it for Taco Tuesdays.
5. Popcorn
One of her go-to snacks is popcorn sprinkled with olive oil and hemp seeds. Lest you think it’s just an unhealthy movie theater snack, Koff says that popcorn is a great way to get in fiber, too.
6. Almond Butter
Almond butter, which is high in monounsaturated fats, can be part of a heart-healthy diet. Koff eats hers with fresh fruit and as a spread on quick sandwiches.
7. Lentils or Canned Beans
Another Taco Tuesday staple? Legumes, which Koff uses to make bean salads with salsa and avocado.
8. Olive Oil
Another food that’s high in healthy fats, olive oil is also rich in vitamins E and K. Koff says she uses it enough (as a cooking oil or a simple salad dressing) that it’s basically another food group for her.