Why My Costco Executive Membership is Invaluable for a Food Writer Mom

As a mother of two who writes about food, my Costco executive membership is an essential tool for stocking my kitchen.

Costco makes it easy to provide my family with hearty meals without the need for daily cooking from scratch. Frozen meals, in particular, offer unparalleled ease. The retailer's selection includes a range of snacks and quick breakfast items perfect for our on-the-move lifestyle.

Moreover, the 2% annual cashback on purchases is a significant perk. By year's end, I receive nearly $200 as a reward. Here are the items I can't resist buying at Costco.

Granola Bites: A Perfect On-the-Go Energy Boost

With a fast metabolism, snacks are my constant companions. Made Good granola bites are among my top picks. They aren't overly sweet and contain under 5 grams of added sugar per serving. My toddler adores them, too, often trying to grab mine.

A $12 pack includes 12 packages offering two flavors: chocolate chip and mixed berry.

Fruit Bars That Satisfy and Nourish

While I love fresh fruits, they don't always fit into a busy schedule. That's It fruit bars offer real fruit without any additions like sugars or concentrates, making them ideal pocket snacks for me or a lunchbox treat for my son.

A bag of 24 bars in strawberry, mango, and blueberry costs $14.

Long-Lasting Quinoa: A Versatile Pantry Staple

Kirkland Signature's organic quinoa is a favorite for its variety and quality. Once cooked, it offers a subtle nutty flavor and fluffy texture, suitable as a standalone dish or mixed with other ingredients.

This quinoa is a great protein source, high in fiber and nutrients. A 4.5-pound bag is priced at $10.

Transform Ordinary Meals with This Flavorful Sauce

Bachan's Japanese barbecue sauce is my go-to condiment when lacking culinary inspiration. The sauce's blend of soy, mirin, and ginger, among other ingredients, adds an irresistible layer of savory sweetness.

Costco offers a 34-ounce bottle for $10.

Tinned Fish: Economical and Long-Lasting

With food prices climbing, maintaining a cost-effective meal plan is crucial. Tinned fish like sardines are economical and last long.

I particularly enjoy Season's boneless, skinless sardines, which are ideal for pasta dishes or sandwiches. A pack of six tins is $12.

Start the Morning Right with a Sugar-Free Cereal

For rushed mornings, my husband and I prefer cereals that aren't sugar-laden, like Cascadian Farm's blueberry almond crunch. This cereal, enriched by dried date powder, combines blueberries and almonds for a wholesome breakfast.

A 2-pound box costs $14.

Speedy Fried Rice for a Satisfying Quick Meal

Ajinomoto's fried rice packets are ideal for turning leftovers into a complete meal. When pressed for time, I simply microwave a packet packed with chicken and vegetables.

Available in a box of six packets for $15.

Breakfast Burritos to Energize Your Morning

On particularly busy mornings, Don Miguel's breakfast burritos are handy. They're filled with eggs, sausage, and other ingredients to keep my mornings well-fueled.

A pack of six burritos is $12.

Quick and Tasty Tempura Shrimp

Kirkland Signature's tempura shrimp surpasses expectations; each shrimp is enveloped in a crispy batter, resembling restaurant-quality tempura.

A $19 box contains 30 shrimp, ideal for a quick meal paired with udon or rice.

French Macarons: A Delicate Party Treat

Tipiak's French macarons are a delightful party snack with their perfect texture and balanced fillings.

Enjoy 36 macarons per $12 box.

Ready-to-Serve Guacamole

When avocados aren't ripe at the store, Kirkland Signature's guacamole saves the day, offering a fresh taste enhanced by lime and cilantro.

Each box contains 16 individual servings for $14.

A Family Favorite: Farmed Salmon

Regularly enjoyed during our hectic night meals, Costco's farmed steelhead salmon offers a delicate, slightly sweet taste that pairs beautifully with various sides.

Priced at $11 per pound, packages average 3 pounds.