1. Berries
Usage: baked goods, smoothies, yogurt toppings, breakfast bowls
Berries such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries are among nature’s best sources of antioxidants. Studies have shown that antioxidant levels in berries remain stable long after freezing.
Some of the best places to find frozen berry bargains include Trader Joe’s, Target, Whole Foods, and Walmart. I find Costco can be more expensive per pound, but it has organic frozen options at excellent prices.
2. Chopped carrots
Usage: soups, honey glazes and roasts, grain bowls, stir-fries
Frozen chopped vegetables reduce prep time and encourage extra fiber and vitamins to be incorporated into your diet while preventing spoilage.
Carrots have a short shelf life and can usually be kept in the refrigerator for only a few days before they begin to turn brown. It is frozen immediately after harvesting, preserving the fiber, vitamin A and beta-carotene nutrients.
3. Fish
Usage: fish stew, grilled dish, fried dish, steamed dish, grilled dish
Unlike fresh fish that takes several days to reach the storefront, the fish displayed in the frozen section are frozen immediately after they are caught to maintain their freshness. I buy frozen fish to get omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D.
Look for fish that can be stored without sacrificing texture or flavor. Oily fish such as yellowtail and tuna are not good at freezing. We recommend frozen cod, tilapia, and halibut instead.
4. Spinach
Usage: Smoothies, scrambled eggs, dipping sauces, steamed
Frozen spinach is a better source because if fresh spinach is left unattended during long-distance transport or stored in the refrigerator for a week, its folic acid content drops significantly.
Even better, one cup of frozen spinach contains four times more nutrients like iron, vitamin C, and calcium compared to one cup of fresh spinach.
5. Peas
Usage: salads, caramelized butter, grain bowls, steamed dishes, stir-fried vegetables, dipping sauces
It is not always possible to buy fresh peas all year round. Also, it can be labor intensive and time consuming to peel and prepare.
But frozen peas, which are rich in fiber and protein, can be added quickly and easily to several dishes straight from the freezer.
6. brown rice
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