I currently spend my workweek in a traditional office environment, going in five days each week, and in order to maintain both a healthy diet and a sense of financial mindfulness, I have cultivated the habit of carefully preparing and packing my own meals and snacks. This practice allows me to save a notable amount of money while also ensuring that my daily food choices are aligned with my nutritional goals. To efficiently stock my pantry and freezer with essential ingredients, I frequently shop at Costco, where I can purchase large quantities of high-quality products — particularly frozen fruits such as cherries, blueberries, and mangoes, which form the flavorful base of my daily breakfast smoothies. Among the many convenient Costco offerings, two of my favorite snack choices are the Kirkland Signature chewy granola bars and the ever-popular Wonderful pistachios, both of which balance taste, nutrition, and portability.
Earlier this year, I transitioned from a fully remote position to one that requires consistent in-person attendance at the office, a change that prompted a complete reevaluation of my daily routine. When working from home, I could easily step into the kitchen to prepare a fresh sandwich, a vibrant salad, or even a warm midday meal with minimal time investment. However, now that my days begin with a commute and a fixed schedule, I must be deliberate about meal preparation in advance. This means setting aside time in the evenings to assemble lunches, portion snacks, and plan breakfasts that can be consumed quickly or on the move.
Costco has become my trusted partner in this process, offering both in-person shopping and online delivery options for an extensive range of ingredients that simplify my meal planning. I especially value their collection of breakfast staples, nutrient-dense snacks, and wholesome items ideal for portable lunches. In the mornings, when I often rush to catch the bus, I rely on smoothies as a convenient and energizing breakfast option. I find it immensely helpful to keep my freezer stocked with large bags of frozen fruit — usually organic cherries, blueberries, or mangoes — which I blend with whatever supplementary ingredients I have available, such as chia seeds, oats, or dates. Costco’s selection makes it effortless to keep these smoothie essentials on hand, alongside plant-based milks like the So Delicious organic unsweetened coconut milk, sold conveniently in sets of six one-quart containers. I appreciate that these can be stored unopened in the pantry, conserving precious refrigerator space. Coconut milk, moreover, is a staple in my household: it doubles effortlessly as a base for smoothies, an ingredient in creamy soups, or the liquid component for overnight oats and chia pudding. My partner, who enjoys experimenting with different coffee styles, also uses it as a dairy substitute whenever we run out of whole milk.
In striving to increase my protein intake — a particular focus since I don’t consume much meat — I’ve grown fond of Kirkland Signature’s peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate chip chewy protein bars. Each bar contains approximately ten grams of protein, and their texture and flavor remind me of the Quaker chewy granola bars I loved during childhood. These bars are perfect for busy days: I often keep one or two in my backpack to serve as a quick breakfast on hectic mornings or as a satisfying snack to curb hunger during my evening commute.
Another Costco favorite of mine is the box of organic Aussie bites, which strike a satisfying balance between wholesome nutrition and homemade charm. These bite-sized snacks combine rolled oats, dried apricots, flaxseed, honey, quinoa, and coconut into a subtly sweet and hearty mixture that feels both indulgent and nourishing. They’re excellent for breakfast on the go or an afternoon pick-me-up, though they can be somewhat fragile, so I always take care to store them in rigid containers when traveling to prevent them from crumbling.
Hydration is another small but meaningful part of my daily wellness routine, and Costco’s bulk packs of Kirkland Signature organic coconut water make it easy to stay refreshed. Each box contains nine one-liter bottles, which I find to be a cost-effective alternative to buying single bottles at local stores. My appreciation for coconut water began at a former workplace that provided it in the office fridge, and I’ve continued the habit since then.
For quick lunches or protein-rich meals, I rely on Kirkland Signature albacore solid white tuna, a pantry essential that supplies an impressive forty-three grams of protein per can. Whether used in a classic tuna salad sandwich or melted with cheese for a warm tuna melt, it’s one of the most practical items I keep stocked, much to the lighthearted amusement of my partner, who jokes about my tuna collection.
Salads are another frequent part of my weekly lunches, and I enjoy elevating them with high-quality add-ins, particularly Kirkland Signature organic pine nuts. A single 1.5-pound bag lasts a long time and helps me craft vibrant, satisfying meals at a fraction of the cost of purchasing equivalent salads from cafés, which can easily range from fifteen to twenty dollars per bowl. I often combine basic greens with tomatoes, carrots, seeds, and nuts to create a meal that feels both fresh and indulgent, and the pine nuts contribute a buttery richness that transforms even the simplest salad.
Costco’s variety of dried fruits adds another dimension to my daily eating habits. I often mix organic dried figs into my yogurt or sprinkle pieces of Nutty and Fruity organic dragon fruit atop a salad for an unexpected pop of texture and color. More recently, I have also kept a bag of dried mango at my desk — a chewy and naturally sweet snack that keeps me energized through afternoon slumps.
The pre-portioned Wonderful pistachio packs have also become a personal favorite, particularly the roasted and salted variety, though I occasionally switch to sea salt and vinegar or chili roasted flavors for variety. Each small pouch provides just the right portion size, ranging from 120 to 130 calories, and makes for an ideal brain-boosting snack during long stretches of focused work.
While I was never much of a trail mix enthusiast in the past, I’ve grown fond of the Kirkland Signature version. It’s thoughtfully balanced, combining peanuts, raisins, almonds, cashews, and M&Ms into a mix that provides both energy and a hint of sweetness without becoming overwhelming. It’s perfect for afternoons when I crave variety or need something to sustain my concentration.
Perhaps less essential but still beloved are the Kirkland Signature peanut-butter pretzels, which come in a massive 55-ounce container — equivalent to about fifty-six servings. They’re ideal for portioning into small snack bags or sharing among colleagues. Unlike typical chips or popcorn, I find that these pretzel nuggets offer both crunch and a sense of satiety after just a few pieces.
Finally, for quick and filling meals, particularly at lunchtime, I rely on Costco’s assortment of ingredients suitable for rice bowls. I like to prepare various tofu-based dishes paired with Bibigo’s pre-cooked sticky white rice packs, which can be microwaved in minutes and are perfect for the office. To keep things interesting, I sometimes enhance them with Korean carrot salad, Napa cabbage kimchi, or a spoonful of the aromatic Spice World chili-onion crunch. These combinations result in flavorful meals that are easy to assemble and infinitely adaptable.
Ultimately, my Costco haul has become an indispensable element of my workweek routine. It supports my goals of eating healthfully, saving time, and managing expenses, all while allowing me to enjoy meals that feel both satisfying and thoughtfully prepared.
Sourse: https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-best-things-to-avoid-eating-out-at-work-2025-11
