I gave birth to our first son in March of 2020. Meanwhile (unbeknownst to us), the world was shutting down. By the time we walked back through our door—a newborn in tow and a scar across my belly—nothing was the same. Suddenly, the village I envisioned was a dream of the past. Be it global circumstances or my own naiveté, I felt a deep lack of collective postpartum support. In turn, I ate what was convenient and slept when I could. Truthfully, my physical and mental recovery were an afterthought. With that in mind, this is the resource I wish I had. Consider this postpartum nutrition guide the gateway to deeply nourishing yourself (or a new mother in your life).
In addition to nutrition specifics, scroll for freezer-friendly recipes, supportive supplements, and general lifestyle tips to encourage a healthy and vibrant postpartum experience.
Edie Horstman
Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.
What is postpartum?
Postpartum refers to the time frame immediately after childbirth. Also known as the puerperium, this period typically lasts about six weeks—although its exact length varies. From a medical perspective, it includes the return of a woman’s uterus to its pre-pregnancy size. There are actually three distinct phases of the postnatal period: the acute phase (6-12 hours after delivery), the subacute phase (six weeks), and the delayed phase (upwards of six months). Ultimately, postpartum is a critical time for healing, adjusting, bonding, and adapting to new parenthood.
Postpartum Misconceptions
Unfortunately, postpartum is both misunderstood and underemphasized. Thanks to societal stigmas (and for that matter, social media!), postpartum’s true intensity flies under the radar. In turn, this contributes to a slew of misconceptions. For example, many new parents assume the postpartum period is over after six weeks. But in all reality, that’s just the beginning. Recovery can take upwards of a year—or more.
Beyond physical changes, hormones and emotions need ample time to adjust. Proper recovery is a long, winding road. Knowing this helps set realistic expectations, encouraging a smoother transition into motherhood.
A Season of Rest
In the first few weeks after birth, you’re not only getting to know your baby, but you’re also learning about yourself—as a mother, caregiver, and nurturer. It is a massive undertaking. Especially as a first-time mom. Women experience physical, mental, and emotional changes unlike anything else. As a Certified Nutrition Consultant—with a specialty in postpartum nutrition—I am particularly passionate about helping women navigate this tender time. It’s a dynamic season, one that’s synonymous with healing, resting, and acclimating.
What happens to your hormones after giving birth?
During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone increase significantly. However, once the placenta is removed after birth, these two hormones take a sharp—but intentional—dip. In essence, these estrogen and progesterone must drop for breastfeeding hormones, like prolactin and oxytocin, to do their job. Simultaneously, oxytocin surges to stimulate uterine contractions. This helps you bond with your newborn. That said, this dramatic shift often contributes to significant emotional swings.
The Baby Blues
Unsurprisingly, these hormonal fluctuations have an impact on emotional stability. The so-called “baby-blues”—where women can feel weepy, tearful, and overwhelmed—typically last for a few days (or up to 1-2 weeks). However, they can last significantly longer. If that’s the case, or they’re accompanied by anxiety, despair, or are preventing you from being able to complete daily tasks, it is important to seek evaluation for postpartum depression.
Normal Postpartum Physical Changes
Speaking of hormonal fluctuations, let’s talk about postpartum physical changes. Low estrogen levels—which stay low until you re-start your menstrual cycle, typically last throughout the duration of breastfeeding. And low estrogen can contribute to postpartum hot flashes, pelvic floor dysfunction, vaginal dryness and low libido. Hair loss (telogen effluvium) is another common symptom. However, normal hair patterns usually return by 6-15 months postpartum. Inevitably, eating to support these internal and external shifts is key.
Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Postpartum Period
Before we dive into postpartum nutrition, what are lifestyle tips and habits that can support a nourished postpartum period?
Rest and sleep
Sleep is crucial for everyone—pregnant, postpartum, or not! But for obvious reasons, it’s the most challenging to prioritize. Nap when you can and enlist childcare support from friends and family members. It’s important to remember that sleep deprivation (and chronic stress) during the postpartum period can lead to sugar cravings, additional weight gain, and inflammation.
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water supports bodily functions and is crucial for breastfeeding mothers. Sipping on bone broth and herbal teas can also aid in everything from digestive support to mineral replenishment.
Physical activity
Once you’re cleared to exercise, go for it. Moving your body is extremely beneficial for your mental and physical well-being. Exercise helps with natural detoxification, blood sugar balance (which can help stabilize postpartum hormones), provides a boost in endorphins, helps strengthen your core after giving birth, and so much more. Whether it’s pilates, strength training, or walking, aim for consistency.
Emotional support
In case you need the reminder, your village wants to help you. If there’s ever a time to call in your support system, it’s right after you’ve given birth. Along with counseling, many women find that working with a postpartum doula can speed up their recovery time. In the very least, lean on friends and family members to help you with basic house chores and light cooking. You’re not expected to do it all—especially in the early postpartum months.
Why is postpartum nutrition important?
It’s vital for several reasons: healing and recovery, energy levels, breastmilk production, and emotional well-being. Proper nutrients are needed for everything from tissue repair to muscle recovery. They also help maintain energy levels, which—of course—are crucial when caring for a newborn. And if you’re a breastfeeding mama, you need adequate calories to produce quality breastmilk. Last but not least, certain nutrients can impact mood and help manage postpartum depression.
Nourishing Your Body After Childbirth
No matter what part of the world they live in, traditional cultures prioritize postpartum foods that are warm, soft, and easily digestible.
Additionally, new mothers are encouraged to eat slowly (easier said than done!) and sip nutrient-dense broths. For that matter, cold foods are usually not recommended. After all, these cultures believe cold foods slow down circulation (essential for optimal healing). Additionally, weight loss shouldn’t be an immediate goal. Rather, it’s best to focus on a postpartum diet that’s rich in high-quality protein, healthy fats, and cooked produce.Try to avoid high sugar and ultra-processed foods and instead focus on whole, mostly unprocessed foods.
Postpartum Nutrition: What to Prioritize
In the early days after birth, lean into foods you might turn to when recovering from the flu. Think hydrating, easy-to-digest, nutrient-dense meals like soup with sourdough bread, cooked veggies with soft-boiled eggs, and steel-cut oats with almond butter and anti-inflammatory fruit. As you can imagine, all of the organs in the abdomen are going through a massive shift, and digestion is likely to be compromised.
Eating enough
As mentioned, caloric needs increase for breastfeeding women (anywhere from 300-1,000 calories, daily). This means that requirements for all macronutrients—and the large majority of micronutrients—increase during this time as well.
Getting a balance of macronutrients
To break this down, postpartum moms need an adequate balance of carbs, protein, and fats. Starchy carbs (grains, squashes, sweet potatoes, etc.) are energy-rich and help build milk supply. Protein is the most satiating and helps rebuild tissue and muscle (aim for 25-40 grams of protein per meal). Last but not least, don’t forget healthy fats. These help stabilize blood sugar, balance hormones, and nourish breast milk.
Supporting digestion
A raw, high-fiber salad may seem like the epitome of a healthy meal, but if your digestion is compromised (normal during the fourth trimester!), that salad is akin to throwing wet logs on a weak fire. When digestion is weak, it’s best to consume cooked and fermented vegetables. A digestive enzyme is worth exploring if you foresee digestion being an issue during postpartum.
Micronutrients That Support Postpartum Healing
Along with eating enough, getting a balance of macronutrients, and supporting digestion, below are specific micronutrients that foster postpartum health.
Choline-Rich Foods
Postpartum women need choline to support mental health and brain function. It’s also important for a baby’s brain development.
Poultry: Eggs and chicken breast.
Liver: One of the richest sources of choline!
Soy: A plant-based source of choline for plant-forward mamas.
Folate-Rich Foods
Folate supports the production of new cells, aids in tissue repair, and helps prevent anemia by supporting red blood cell formation (crucial for recovery and overall health after childbirth!).
Greens: Asparagus, spinach, kale, and arugula.
Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and black beans.
Fruit: Avocado and oranges.
Omega-3-Rich Foods
Healthy fats (particularly, omega-3 fatty acids) are essential for balanced hormones, brain function, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (take advantage of tinned fish!).
Cruciferous vegetables: Brussels sprouts.
Nuts and seeds: Walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and flaxseeds.
Iron-Rich Foods
Iron helps replenish blood loss during childbirth and supports energy levels.
Red meat: Beef and lamb are rich sources of heme iron.
Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and swiss chard provide non-heme iron.
Fortified cereals: Many breakfast cereals are fortified with iron.
Nuts and seeds: Pumpkin seeds, almonds, and cashews.
Calcium-Rich Foods
Calcium is crucial for bone health, especially if breastfeeding.
Dairy Products: Organic (ideally, pasture-raised!) milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Leafy greens: Broccoli, bok choy, and kale.
Fortified plant milks: Unsweetened almond, soy, or flax milk.
Fiber-Rich Foods
Fiber aids in digestion and prevents constipation, which is common postpartum.
Whole grains: Oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread.
With those micronutrients in mind, below are six postpartum foods that are worth keeping in your pantry and fridge.
1. Bone broth
Slow-simmered bone broth plays a key role in the postpartum practices of many traditional cultures. Not only is bone broth nutrient-dense and a rich source of collagen, but it also aligns with the traditional practice of serving new mothers warm bevvies and soups (rather than cold food).
2. Fermented ingredients
These aid in digestion, nourish breast milk, and help rebuild the microbiome—particularly for those administered antibiotics during labor. Think: kimchi, miso, tempeh, kefir, sauerkraut, etc.
3. Nut butter
Did you know that monounsaturated fats—the majority of fat found in nuts—help combat emotional fluctuations (and for that matter, fatigue!) by steadying blood sugar? A quick spoonful of nut butter can be a savior in the early postpartum days. Coconut, although not a nut, is another healthy fat to incorporate. It’s known to nourish breast milk.
4. Sardines
Sardines are a rich source of many important nutrients that new mothers need. Think: DHA, calcium, and vitamin D3. They are also available canned, which makes them a quick and easy addition to a meal.
5. Root veggies
These comfort foods (beets, acorn squash, butternut squash, etc.) are easy to roast and keep well in the fridge. Pair them with healthy fat to help keep blood sugar stable—like tahini or avocado—and increase the absorption of nutrients like beta-carotene.
6. Grass-fed liver
Rich in iron to replete losses from birth, liver is rich in vitamin A. This does double the work: supports your immune system and promotes repair of the mucous membranes in the vaginal canal. If eating liver makes you squeamish, you can opt for a grass-fed liver supplement or add liver to your food processor along with ground beef (to make these meatballs!).
Warming Spices for Postpartum
Of course, don’t forget warming spices! These are tiny but mighty nutrients to warm your postpartum body from the inside out.
Turmeric: Incredibly supportive for the early postpartum period. Known as a uterotonic, this herb gently stimulates the uterus, which helps it return to its pre-pregnancy size. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, gives the root its rich, golden color. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that aid recovery after birth.
Ginger: Organs shift during pregnancy to make room for your baby, which can lead to digestive complications after birth. Not only is ginger great for digestion, but it’s also a lactogenic herb that can support milk supply.
Cinnamon and cardamom: These help warm the body, increase circulation, and restore energy. Add them to your oats and lattes.
Ingredients That Aid in Breastmilk Production
Can certain foods and herbs support lactation? The research says yes. Along with the aforementioned macro and micronutrients, hone in on oats (a traditional galactagogue), fenugreek, brewer’s yeast, fennel seeds, and garlic. Of course, staying hydrated is also critical for milk production. Drink plenty of filtered water, herbal teas (like fenugreek and fennel teas), chicken or veggie broth, and high-water produce like cucumbers and oranges.
Helpful Postpartum Supplements
While food should be the primary source of nutrients after childbirth, certain supplements can support postpartum recovery:
Prenatal vitamins: Continue taking your prenatal vitamin to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients. My favorites? Perelel and WeNatal.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Taking fish oil can help with inflammation and support brain health.
Vitamin D:Vitamin D supports bone health and immune function, especially important if you have limited sun exposure.
Probiotics: Can aid digestion and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Iron: If you have low iron levels (via a blood test), an iron supp may be necessary.
Stocking Your Freezer with Healthy Meals and Snacks
To bring this full circle: eating nourishing foods is an essential part of recovering after birth—as well as replenishing breast milk. You need the energy and strength to care for yourself while simultaneously caring for your baby. And this is no small feat! Ideally, extended family and friends will bring you food, but you can also prepare healthy, pre-cooked freezer meals and snacks before your little one arrives.
With the notion that food is medicine, this soup has easy-to-find ingredients and is loaded with anti-inflammatory ingredients. Make a batch of this nourishing recipe for multiple healing lunches or dinners.
Keep these in your freezer and pop one or two into the microwave for a wholesome yet decadent boost of energy. Pair a muffin with a cup of Greek yogurt for a satisfying postpartum snack.
Not only are eggs rich in choline and vitamin D, but they’re a convenient and versatile ingredient to have on hand. Prep this frittata ahead of time, slice, and keep it in the freezer for any time of day.
Don’t underestimate smoothie baggies! Put together bags of fruit, protein powder, seeds, and nuts. Keep these in the freezer, add the ingredients to a blender (along with milk, yogurt, etc.) and your hydrating smoothie will be ready in no time.
The Best Postpartum Meal Delivery Services
When it comes to enhancing your postpartum health—in a convenient way that doesn’t skimp on nutrients—consider the following postpartum meal delivery services:
Chiyo: Eastern food therapy meets nutritional science with this deeply nourishing postpartum meal delivery service. Their holistic, inclusive, and proactive approach to maternal care makes it that much easier to heal your body.
Milky Oat: The testimonials speak for themselves. Milky Oat offers a six-week program for intentional fuel during the early postpartum days—and women rave about it. You can also tack on meals for your partner!
Kitchen Doula: This program offers nourishing meals for motherhood, healing, and beyond. Whether it’s your first months home with a new baby, you’re recovering from illness or injury, or grieving from loss, Kitchen Doula is here to support you.
Territory: While not a postpartum-specific meal delivery service, Territory’s crew of nutrition advisors bring their unique perspectives, advanced training, and real world know-how to the table. Plus, unlike other services that churn meals out of massive central commissaries, their independent chefs work in their own fully certified, local commercial kitchens!
There’s no doubt that Costco is the undisputed mother of bulk-buying heaven. As a seasoned Costco member and parent, I’ve navigated the vast aisles of this wholesale giant to find the most valuable deals and must-have items. So when folks are wondering about the best things to buy at Costco, you better believe I’m happy—THRILLED, even—to deliver in bulk.
Costco has revolutionized how families shop, offering unbeatable prices on bulk purchases. While I still enjoy specialty stores for certain items (miss you, Trader Joe’s), Costco has become my go-to for household essentials, pantry staples, and family-sized portions of our favorite foods. And my favorite surprise: Costco is the absolute best place to shop if you’re in the market for snacks and staples that are high in quality protein.
The Best Things to Buy at Costco, According to a Frequent Shopper
From budget-friendly meat options to kid-approved snacks, our Costco shopping guide caters to both practical needs and occasional indulgences. Want to truly maximize your membership? Here’s my biggest pro tip: utilize same-day delivery through Costco’s partnership with Instacart. No extra fees, delivery is free, and it’s easy to shop online—a win-win.
Ahead, let’s explore the best things to buy at Costco that offer quality and savings in equal measure.
Keep in mind that stock changes and some items may or may not be available near you. But part of the fun is in the discovery! This list is frequently updated with new favorite finds.
Best Pantry Finds at Costco
Seven Sundays Real Cocoa Grain Free Cereal, $11.22 for 16 oz
Made with wholesome ingredients like sunflower seeds, coconut, and real cocoa, this cereal is grain-free, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened. Each serving is high in protein and fiber, providing long-lasting energy and satisfaction. It’s perfect if you’re following a paleo or keto diet, or for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty, healthy breakfast. Bonus: my kids love it (and the “chocolate milk” it leaves behind).
Organic Creamy Peanut Butter, $12.86 for 28-oz, 2-count
IYKYK. No peanut butter tastes better than this. It’s perfect for this peanut butter snack cake or adding to smoothies. Or scooping straight out of the jar.
Organic Chicken Stock, $11.69 for 32 fl oz, 6-count
Chicken stock is a pantry staple when it comes to sauces, pastas, soups, or even livening up rice. Kirkland’s Organic Chicken Stock is delicious on its own, so you know it’ll pump flavor into whatever you’re cooking. Plus, it’s made from simple ingredients—the same simple vegetables and spices I’d use if I were making stock at home.
Siete Almond Flour Tortillas, $14.79 for 20-count
If you’re lucky enough to be in LA, Austin, or Hawaii, you’ll find these stocked at your local Costco. They’re a personal favorite of mine. They’re great for quesadilla night or a simple lunchtime wrap. We’re obsessed with everything the famed Austin-based brand puts out. And while these tortillas taste purely authentic, they’re also friendly on your digestive system and keep you from feeling weighed down post-meal.
Dave’s Killer Bread Sprouted Whole Grains, $11.10 for 2 loaves, 48 oz
This bread is packed with organic whole grains and seeds, making it a nutritious and filling option for sandwiches and toast. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to add more fiber and protein to their diet.
Kodiak Pancake and Waffle Mix, $15.08 for 72 oz
A solid protein-fueled breakfast is essential for kids (and your) brain health going into a day of school or work. When eggs or yogurt just won’t do, this mix gets the job done. And you can make more than just waffles or pancakes—the muffins and breakfast cookies are perfect to whip up for on-the-go AM meals or quick snacks.
Kirkland Signature Bagels, $7.99 for 12-count
If you’re someone who loves venturing out for your weekend bagel and coffee, I totally feel you. It’s a little luxury that I could always do with more in my life. But if you’re looking for a quick-and-easy option—whose price you can’t beat—Costco reigns supreme. I love that the bagels are water-boiled, making each nice and chewy on the inside while the exterior gets a crispy, golden-brown texture. I’d even go as far to say that their plain bagel is a treat—but the parmesan is my true fave.
You must always leave Costco with something crunchy and snacky in your cart. Simple Mills Almond Flour crackers are truly addicting and buying them in bulk is the most affordable way to go. These crackers pair well with cottage cheese for a healthy snack.
Trubar Protein Bars, $24.87 for 14-count
These protein bars are DECADENT and such a treat. Trubar is a woman-founded company and they knew what they were doing when they formulated protein bars that taste like cookie dough and donuts. Favorite Costco find of the year.
Humm Organic Probiotic Kombucha, $33.45 for 14-oz 12-count
Your favorite brands of kombucha in bulk? Yes, please! You can find Bend, Oregon-based Humm Organic Probiotic Kombucha on your local Costco shelves. Personally, even the Kirkland brand’s raw Ginger-Lemonade kombucha is a gut-friendly fave. Pro tip: Use it to make kombucha cocktails and thank me later.
Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water, $16.36 for 14-oz, 6-count
Named best overall in our coconut water taste test, Harmless Harvest is truly refreshing—and Costco sells them six in a box. Essential for summer hydration and so good in smoothies.
The Only Bean Crunchy Roasted Edamame Beans, $9.23 for 18 oz
These crunchy snacks are a great source of plant-based protein, perfect for on-the-go high-protein snacking or adding to salads for extra crunch and nutrition.
Chomps, $19.88 for 12 sticks
These meat sticks are another convenient high-protein snack, made from grass-fed beef and free from added sugars. They are perfect for a quick energy boost between meals.
Unreal Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis, $12.74 for 15.3 oz
These treats offer a healthier take on a classic candy bar, made with organic ingredients and less sugar. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth at the end of the day.
Siete Grain Free Tortilla Chips Individual Multipack, $16.66 for 14-count
These grain-free chips are perfect for a healthy snack, and the individual packs make them easy to take on the go. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they are a great alternative to traditional tortilla chips.
Pure Organic Layered Fruit Bars, $15.37 for 28-count
These fruit bars are made with organic fruit and vegetables, providing a tasty and nutritious snack option for both kids and adults.
Meat & Fish from Costco
Kirkland Signature Pepperoni Pizza, $16.02 for 4-count
Costco has some delicious options for pizza, both frozen and already baked. It’s definitely a must-have that will please the whole family (and is a great option when you have zero dinner plans).
Wild Alaskan Salmon Burgers, $22.22 for 4-oz 12-count
If you’re looking for a protein-fueled lunch or a quick dinner idea, a single salmon burger packs a whopping 20 grams of protein.
Amylu Chicken Breakfast Links, $16.37 for 2.5 lbs
These chicken breakfast links are a high-protein, low-fat option for your morning meal. They are seasoned perfectly and cook up quickly, making them a great addition to your breakfast routine.
Teton Waters Ranch Polish Sausage, $19.88 for 12-count
These sausages are made from 100% grass-fed beef, free from hormones and antibiotics, and the perfect jumping-off point for a quick dinner. Grill with onions and peppers, slice and serve over pasta, roast on a sheet with veggies—I’ve done it all. Every time they’re easy and delicious.
Wild Planet Albacore Wild Tuna, $19.88 for 5 oz, 6-count
This tuna is sustainably caught and packed with protein, making it a nutritious and convenient option for meals and snacks—like this tuna avocado toast. The albacore tuna is pole and line caught, ensuring minimal environmental impact and maximum quality. Plus, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart and brain health.
Best Refrigerated & Frozen Grocery Items to Buy in Bulk
Au Pain Doré Frozen Butter Croissants, $17.99 for 30-count
For a fancier take on a morning pastry, stock up on some delicious, buttery croissants. They’re excellent from the bakery, but the Camille Styles team has even raved about our mutual love of the brand’s frozen croissants. While Costco’s in-house Kirkland brand offers them, my favorite are those from Au Pain Doré (a Montreal-based bakery). Hot tip: Bake yours in the air fryer and brush on a little egg wash before popping them in. You’ll get the perfect golden-brown croissant.
Painterland Sisters Organic Skyr Yogurt, $17.54 for 8-count
This Icelandic-style yogurt is thick, creamy, and packed with protein. It’s a great choice for breakfast or a snack and can be topped with fruits, nuts, or granola.
Kirkland Grass-Fed Butter, $11.69 for 8 oz, 4-count
One of my favorite Costco deals, this butter is made from grass-fed cows, providing a richer flavor and higher nutrient content. It’s perfect for cooking, baking, and especially for spreading on sourdough toast.
Tillamook Medium Cheddar Slices, $12.27 for 52 slices, 2.5 lbs
These cheddar slices are rich and creamy, perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or snacking. My kids call it “flat cheese,” and they aren’t wrong. Whenever I want to give them an added protein boost, I pass them a slice.
Organic Valley Stringles, $11.45 for 24-count
These organic string cheese sticks are a fun and healthy snack for kids and adults alike. They are made with high-quality organic milk and are a good source of calcium and protein.
Kirkland Signature Three Berry Blend, $12.86 for 4 lbs
This blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries is perfect for superfood smoothies, baking, or adding to yogurt. It’s a convenient way to keep a variety of berries on hand all year round.
Top Costco Deals on Household Essentials
Pendleton Blankets, $26.99
No matter what your vibe is at home, Pendleton blankets are the perfect way to cozy up your space. If you’re familiar with Pendleton, then you’ll be as blown away as I was to find it on sale at Costco. Perfect for you or as a gift.
Kirkland Toilet Paper, $23.39 for 30 Rolls
It’s not furniture, but it’s a household staple nonetheless. Arguably one of my favorite items to get at Costco is toilet paper in bulk. It usually lasts several months and yes, is unbelievably soft. If you were also traumatized by TP Gate 2020, you’ll never miss an opportunity to stock up at Costco.
Kirkland Signature Paper Towels, $23.39 for 12-count
… same goes for paper towels. When it comes to Costco, the brand excels in both the little things that make life a luxury (see Pendleton blanket and croissants above) as well as the staples every day requires.
Favorite Costco Beauty & Supplements
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides, $37.43 for 32.56 oz
Maintaining a protein-heavy diet can be expensive. However, at Costco, you’ll find tons of affordable options for protein powder and pre-mixed shakes. Vital Proteins are one of my favorite clean protein options, and you can find almost any variety of the popular brand’s protein blends (from marine collagen to collagen peptides and its standard protein powders).
Kirkland Signature Vitamin C, $19.99 for 1000mg., 500 tablets
We all know well that once you enter the supplements game, things can start getting expensive, fast. But if you shop at Costco, don’t pass up the opportunity to get solid picks at a fraction of the price of other brands. I take this Vitamin C every day to keep my cells healthy and happy, and my body loves the results.
La Mer Skincare, Price Varies
Lastly, one of the most surprising brands I have found at Costco is La Mer. Think what you will of Kim K, but her skin is flawless—and La Mer skin cream is her fave. So, of course, I’m going to jump at the opportunity to buy it in bulk.
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
With temps at their highest all year, keeping cool while looking styled can feel like a balancing act. Denim shorts and a white tee are go-to, warm-weather staples, but I need a little more in my rotation to keep me feeling inspired. Enter the best linen clothing. The effortless, European summer-coded fabric is light and breathable. And honestly? It’s all I want to wear.
I’m a firm believer that we should all be living in linen right now. To help you navigate the trending—but timeless!—fabric, I’ve rounded up this season’s best linen clothing.
From the perfect pair of white linen pants to statement dresses, every piece in the list below is guaranteed to make you feel your comfiest and coolest, while looking your best. And if you think linen is only a summer essential, think again. The best linen clothing can be paired with warm knits and denim during the transitional seasons, too! So, get ready to add-to-cart because the linen clothing your closet needs is all right here.
Best Linen Clothing: Tops
From vests to button-downs, linen tops are at the top of my wishlist. Pairing perfectly with denim, silks, or coordinating bottoms, a linen top is an elevated alternative to your favorite white tee or tank.
When shopping for linen tops, I look for something that’s a bit more fun and flirty for summer outings. However, most of these can also double as workwear. You can also never go wrong styling a white linen button-down unbuttoned over a white tank with a good pair of jeans. Throw on a sunhat and a pair of fun sandals and you have an effortlessly chic summer fit. Out of all of the best linen clothing, I recommend investing in a linen top (or two), as these can be easily layered depending on the time of year and styled with just about any bottom in your closet.
Best Linen Clothing: Bottoms
As someone who avoids denim shorts 99% of the year, finding summer pants, skirts, and shorts can prove to be a challenge. However, I started building my collection of the best linen clothing last summer. Now, these linen bottoms have become a no-brainer when getting dressed.
From DISSH’s coordinating skirts to J.Crew’s long and lean shorts, these bottoms will be the perfect pair to every top you own—linen or not. When shopping for linen bottoms, specifically white ones, be sure they aren’t see-through, and wear nude underwear regardless. (Skims is the best.)
Personally, I’ve been living in Reformation’s linen pants. They pass the sheer test, and they’re so easy to style that I’m tempted to wear them every day. (Don’t worry, I actively remind myself to give my other linen staples some love.) But of course, you can’t go wrong with any of the pieces on this list.
Best Linen Clothing: Dresses & Jumpsuits
Linen dresses or jumpsuits are the most obvious choice for an easy, (literally) breezy summer look. There’s nothing better than a one-and-done outfit that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and cool in the heat. Ideal for daytime cookouts, dinners al fresco, and even summer weddings, the best linen clothing can be dressed up or down with the right accessories.
I’ve been gravitating toward linen dresses every weekend. With a swap from a sneaker to a sandal, these looks can take me through my entire day. I’d style the below linen dresses and jumpsuits with a strappy sandal, a raffia bag, and a pearl necklace for a simple—never boring—look that’ll earn compliments everywhere you go.
For me, the perfect summer evening includes laid-back vibes and friends gathered around the grill. And more often than not lately, our grill is full of these spice-rubbed grilled chicken thighs that are about as carefree (and flavor-packed) as it gets. Not only are they faster to make than ordering takeout—they also happen to be an incredibly budget-friendly option for serving a crowd. These flavor-packed chicken thighs have become our go-to for effortless hosting that let me savor every moment of the season.
Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breast: The Great Debate
I certainly used to be team white meat, but over the years, I’ve learned firsthand why most chefs will take thighs over breast any day. Because chicken thighs have more fat content compared to chicken breasts, they’re usually richer, juicier, and more flavorful. This also means they’re less likely to dry out on the grill.
Feel-Good Flavor
These grilled chicken thighs are not only delicious—they’re also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs are:
Packed with B vitamins, vital for energy production
Plus, grilling is a healthier cooking method that requires little to no added fats.
Tips for Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs
Bring the chicken to room temperature before grilling for more even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without overcooking.
Let the chicken rest after grilling to retain its juices before you slice into it.
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade to suit your taste.
What to Serve With Spice-Rubbed Chicken Thighs
This grilled chicken thigh recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down, gather with loved ones, and relish in the simple pleasures of summer. So fire up that grill, and make some memories around the table this season!
These spice-rubbed grilled chicken thighs are an easy grilling recipe that will be on repeat this summer.
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
A few grinds black pepper
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for grill.
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
2 lemons, thinly sliced
Mint leaves and arugula, for garnish
In a medium serving bowl, stir together paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, then toss together to coat.
Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Use a paper towel to coat the grill gates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken until lightly charred and cooked through, turning occasionally, about 12 – 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and honey.
Place the chicken on a serving platter, top with the olives, lemon slices, arugula, and mint, then drizzle with the vinaigrette. Enjoy!
