Healthy Grocery Haul: Smart Food Finds & Weight Watchers Points from Canada & US
Welcome to a brand new section of the blog dedicated to one of my most frequently asked questions: “What food products do you buy, where do you find them, and how many SmartPoints are they?” I’m thrilled to finally launch this space where I’ll regularly share my go-to grocery items, giving you an insider look into my pantry and fridge. My unique situation living in Canada, just a short 45-minute drive from the US border, allows me to enjoy the best of both worlds – or rather, the best of both countries – when it comes to stocking up on healthy and delicious finds. This means you’ll see a fantastic mix of products available north and south of the border, providing a wider range of options for everyone. I cross over every 6-8 weeks to replenish my staples, ensuring I never miss out on those special items not readily available in my local Canadian stores. My goal is to post a detailed review weekly, complete with buying tips, serving suggestions, and all-important SmartPoints information. I genuinely hope this new series inspires your own healthy grocery hauls and helps you discover some new favorite products that perfectly fit your lifestyle and dietary goals.
Savoring Smart Choices: Al Fresco Smoked Andouille Chicken Sausage
Kicking off our first product spotlight are my absolute favorite chicken sausages: Al Fresco Smoked Andouille. While Al Fresco offers a variety of flavors, the Andouille is, without a doubt, my top pick. Its rich, smoky, and slightly spicy profile adds incredible depth to any meal without piling on the SmartPoints. To my knowledge, these aren’t available in Canada, which makes my cross-border trips to the U.S. all the more essential. I typically find them at either Target or Walmart during my grocery runs, often stocking up several packages because they’re that good and incredibly versatile. Each sausage link counts as just 3 SmartPoints (or 3 PointsPlus for those using the older system), making them a fantastic lean protein option for Weight Watchers members.
My preferred method for preparing these delicious sausages is simple and quick: I slice them up and pan-fry them until beautifully browned, then add some fresh, juicy pineapple chunks to the pan. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly complements the savory, smoky sausage, creating a vibrant and satisfying meal that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to prepare. Beyond this classic pairing, these chicken sausages shine in countless other dishes. They’re excellent diced into a healthy jambalaya, tossed into a stir-fry with your favorite vegetables, or even grilled and served in a whole-wheat bun for a lighter take on a hot dog. Their pre-cooked nature means they just need to be heated through, saving precious time on busy weeknights. If you’re looking for a flavorful, low-point protein that’s both convenient and delicious, keep an eye out for Al Fresco Smoked Andouille Chicken Sausages on your next U.S. shopping trip. They’re a true game-changer for healthy meal planning!
Cool & Creamy Indulgence: Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars from Costco
Next up is an item I’m absolutely head over heels for, especially as a refreshing treat or a light dessert: frozen Greek yogurt bars! These delightful bars are a staple in my freezer, offering a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies sweet cravings. I typically purchase them at Costco here in Canada, and I highly recommend checking your local Costco aisle for them. While I’m unsure about their availability in the U.S., it’s always worth a look, as Costco often carries similar healthy frozen treat options across borders. The particular box I often buy features two fantastic flavors: strawberry and blueberry, providing a lovely variety that keeps things interesting. Each bar is perfectly portioned and comes in at a mere 4 SmartPoints (or 2 PointsPlus), making them an incredibly smart choice when you’re looking for something sweet without derailing your healthy eating plan.
What makes these Greek yogurt bars so special? Beyond their low point value, they offer a creamy texture and a burst of natural fruit flavor that’s incredibly satisfying. They’re a much healthier alternative to traditional ice cream bars, packing in some protein from the Greek yogurt, which helps with satiety. I love having one after dinner, or as a quick, cooling snack on a warm afternoon. They’re also great for a pre- or post-workout treat, providing a little energy boost without being too heavy. The individual wrapping makes portion control effortless, which is always a bonus when you’re mindful of what you’re eating. When you’re next at Costco, be sure to browse their freezer section for these delicious and healthy Greek yogurt bars. They are a simple, delicious way to add a little joy to your day while sticking to your SmartPoints budget, proving that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. These frozen treats are a must-try for anyone looking for a wholesome and satisfying dessert option.
The Cheesy Secret: Reduced Fat Shredded Cheese for Healthy Recipes
One of the most common questions I receive about my recipes revolves around the type of reduced-fat shredded cheese I use. Cheese can sometimes be a high-point ingredient, but by opting for reduced-fat varieties, you can still enjoy that delicious, savory flavor without significantly impacting your SmartPoints budget. Here’s one of my absolute favorites, which I consistently pick up at Walmart in the U.S. This particular brand, often a generic store brand, offers excellent quality and melty goodness while keeping the fat content lower. A generous 1/3 cup serving of this reduced-fat shredded cheese comes in at just 3 SmartPoints (or 2 PointsPlus), making it a truly smart choice for adding flavor and texture to a wide array of dishes.
I’ve experimented with various brands over time, and while this Walmart find is a consistent winner for me, I highly recommend exploring the dairy aisle at your local grocery store, whether you’re in Canada or the U.S. Most major supermarkets will carry at least one, if not several, types of reduced-fat shredded cheese. Look for varieties like reduced-fat cheddar, mozzarella, or a Tex-Mex blend. Always compare the nutritional labels to find the option that offers the best SmartPoints value and ingredients for your needs. This versatile ingredient is a staple in my kitchen, perfect for sprinkling over omelets or scrambled eggs, melting into quesadillas, topping a hearty chili, or adding a creamy element to casseroles and pasta dishes. It delivers all the cheesy satisfaction you crave while helping you stay on track with your healthy eating goals. Don’t underestimate the power of a good reduced-fat shredded cheese to elevate your healthy recipes!
Breakfast Bliss: My Go-To Frozen Hash Browns for Smart Mornings
If you’re familiar with my Instagram feed, you’ll know that my frozen hash browns are a frequent star of my breakfast posts! They’re an absolute game-changer for quick, satisfying, and low-point morning meals. These are the hash browns I regularly purchase here in Canada; they’re often a store brand from my local grocery store, “Fresco,” and are also carried by Sobey’s. While the specific brand might vary by region, the concept remains the same, and you’ll almost certainly find something similar in the freezer section of your local supermarket, no matter where you are. My secret to elevating these simple hash browns into a truly delicious and filling breakfast is to add in plenty of fresh vegetables. I love tossing in diced peppers and onions, but spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini would also be fantastic additions.
To prepare them, I heat a frying pan with a little cooking spray – just enough to prevent sticking – and cook the hash browns until golden and crispy. Once they’re nearly done, I add in my chopped fresh vegetables and a generous sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for a kick of flavor. The Cajun seasoning perfectly complements the potatoes and vegetables, adding warmth and a touch of spice that really wakes up the taste buds. A 3/4 cup serving of these hash browns comes in at 4 SmartPoints (or 3 PointsPlus), but by bulking them up with a colorful array of zero-point fresh peppers and onions, it makes the entire portion feel substantially larger and much more satisfying. This simple trick transforms a basic side dish into a hearty, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful breakfast that keeps me full and energized throughout the morning. It’s a perfect example of how small additions can make a huge difference in both taste and nutritional value, all while keeping your SmartPoints in check. This dish is a testament to how easy and delicious healthy breakfast can be!
Effortless & Flavorful: Costco’s Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
These grilled Mediterranean-style chicken skewers are another fantastic find that has quickly become a staple for quick meals and meal prep in my household. I recently picked them up at Costco in Canada, but I’ve also heard from many in the U.S. that they’ve found similar, if not identical, products at their local Costco warehouses. This cross-border availability makes them a universally great option for convenient, healthy protein. What makes these skewers so exceptional is their convenience: they come fully cooked and perfectly seasoned with a delightful Mediterranean blend of herbs and spices, meaning they only need to be reheated. They’re also proudly gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without compromising on flavor.
Each serving of two skewers (approximately 100g) is incredibly lean and satisfying, costing you just 3 SmartPoints (or 4 PointsPlus). This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate more lean protein into their diet without spending hours in the kitchen. Their versatility is truly impressive; they’re absolutely perfect for easy meal prep at the beginning of the week. You can slice them up and add them to wraps for a quick and flavorful lunch, toss them into a fresh salad, or serve them alongside roasted vegetables and a side of quinoa for a complete and balanced dinner. They’re also a fantastic protein component for a grain bowl, or simply enjoyed on their own as a speedy, satisfying snack. These chicken skewers embody the ideal combination of flavor, convenience, and health-consciousness, proving that delicious, nutritious meals can be both easy to prepare and budget-friendly for your SmartPoints. If you see these at your local Costco, grab a package – you won’t regret it!
That wraps up our inaugural “Healthy Grocery Haul” post! I truly hope you found these product spotlights insightful and inspiring for your own healthy eating journey. Discovering new, delicious, and SmartPoints-friendly items is one of the joys of mindful eating, and I’m thrilled to share my finds with you. Whether you’re a seasoned Weight Watchers member or simply looking for healthier grocery options, these reviews are designed to make your shopping trips easier and more efficient. Be sure to check back next week, as I’ll be sharing at least five more fantastic food products – sometimes even more, depending on how fruitful my grocery adventures have been! Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below with any questions about these products or to share your own favorite healthy grocery finds. Happy shopping and happy eating!