There’s something extra satisfying about a product that serves a purposeandlooks great on your countertop.
Take the Dollar Tree, for example.
It isn’t known for its aesthetic appeal or flashy displays.
Photo:Getty Images. EatingWell design.
But it has a surprising number of hidden gems that have made me rethink my usual shopping habits.
With food prices at an all-time high, why wouldn’t I take advantage of that?
I was in the Dollar Tree looking for party decorations when I came across packages of freeze-dried fruit.
Courtesy of Brand
The strawberries are my favoriteI love adding the pieces to oatmeal,Homemade Trail Mixand my favorite granola.
I also grind them into a powder to flavor frosting and yogurt.
Their sweet, bright flavor comes in the most delightfully crisp, airy bitethey feel like arealtreat.
Courtesy of Brand
Forget about gummies; my kiddos feel like they’ve hit the jackpot when these are on offer.
And because convenience reigns supreme in this phase of my life, I always keep them stocked.
I even use theaquafaba(the liquid from the chickpea cans) for vegan baking projects.
Courtesy of Brand
I’m honestly not sure what my pantry or dinner options would look like without them!
Microwaveable Brown Rice Packs
Remember when these convenient rice packets were considered a splurge?
I certainly do, because I used to rationalize paying $4 per pack for the sake of convenience.
Courtesy of Brand
Now, I keep a stash of theseEat Regal Ready to Eat Brown Rice with Quinoapouches.
They’re perfectly portioned, ready in 90 seconds and are just as nutritious as traditionally cookedbrown rice.
On busy nights, I can make a pseudo-Emily Mariko-style bowl (No.
Courtesy of Brand
My kids also love it mixed with scrambled eggs, cheese and herbs.
Making rice is easy, but sometimes, the time savings is what matters most.
At $1.25 each, these protein-packed pouches are about half the price I was paying elsewhere.
I especially love that they don’t require a can opener and are perfectly portioned for one meal.
My favorite way to use them?
Versatile and delicious, they make eating well on a budget feel effortless.
Dried Lentils
Let’s talk aboutBrown’s Best Dried Lentils, which are somehow less expensive than Walmart’s.
These protein-packed pulses are probably the best value in the entire store.
One bag makes multiple meals, and they’re loaded with fiber and plant-based protein.
What I love most about lentils is their chameleon-like ability to take on whatever flavors you pair them with.
And at this price point, you might even afford to experiment with new recipes.
The Bottom Line
Dollar Tree has evolved far beyond what you might remember from years past.
Whether you’re trying to stretch your grocery budget or just love a good deal (who doesn’t?
), these healthy pantry finds are worth a trip to your local Dollar Tree.
But just don’t clear out all the tuna pouches before I get there!
