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Variety is the sauce of life. Okay, that’s not the real saying (it’s supposed to be “spice” for anyone who isn’t familiar), but we think it still fits.
Sauces are kitchen essentials that can immediately take any meal from bland to booming with flavor. Does your steak need a little life? Sounds like a job for chimichurri, bernaise, or even steak sauce. A pasta is only as good as its pesto, alfredo, or tomato-based sauce. And we can’t forget about classic condiments like barbeque, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce that grace all foods with their versatility.
These are the picks that can almost always be found in our fridges and pantries. But, at the same time, we’re always on the lookout for new flavors that ignite our taste buds and elevate every kind of grub they are slathered onto. Today, we’re highlighting five dressings and dips that do just that, and which consumers on Reddit are currently buzzing about. Let’s get saucy.
Shoppers are going hog wild for this specific variety of barbecue sauce. Blues Hog is a brand of sauces and seasonings created by legendary pitmaster Bill Arnold. The tongs have since been passed to decorated barbecuer Tim Scheer, and what started as a handful of signature recipes sold in mason jars has blossomed into an entire ensemble of products and flavors. The sauces have picked up plenty of accolades on the way, including the title of “Best sauce on the planet”. So it comes as no surprise that it’s turning heads in the grocery store aisles.
On Reddit, one user shared that they had picked up a miniature sample of the brand’s Smokey Mountain flavor from Walmart and noted, “I could drink it right out of the bottle”. Others chimed in to say that everything from Blues is “top-notch” and gave great ideas for smothering the sauce on steak, pork chops, chicken thighs, ribs…any kind of meat really. But probably the best news that came from the chat was that the Blues Hog original and Champions blends were just as good, if not better. Sounds like it’s time to go hog hunting to track these bottles down before the season of summer barbeques.
Kinders’ original Buffalo Wing Sauce was recently discontinued, replaced with a new Buttery Buffalo version. But, judging by a Reddit post calling the Buttery newcomer “pretty damn tasty”, it seems that consumers don’t mind the swap one bit. The sauce is born from a combo of vinegar, Anaheim chilis, red jalapeño, garlic, and, of course, butter, for a classic yet spicy kick that foodies can’t seem to get enough of.
“This is a big crowd pleaser,” one user comments in the Reddit thread. “It’s on the mild end but it still has good Buffalo flavor.” Another describes the flavor as “really creamy” with a “pleasant amount of warmth, not hot”. Finally, another fan simply states, “Kinders never fails. Seasoning or sauce.” The general consensus was that the Buttery Buffalo is perfect for chicken wings. But its versatility extends beyond its intended use to foods like fries or pork chops.
When it comes to this sauce type, there are two things most shoppers can agree on. One: It’s nearly impossible to spell or pronounce. And two: It’s a toothsome kitchen must-have. “It’s way more versatile than it gets credit for,” one Redditor says of the Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce. “I’m never without a bottle of it. Great on meats, also great as a secret ingredient in tomato sauce.”
As a tried and true concoction of molasses, tamarind extract, white vinegar, chili pepper extract, sugar, and anchovies, the sauce dates back nearly two centuries to 1837. But it doesn’t appear to have lost any of its potency or appeal over the years. In a post discussing what to pair the timeless condiment with, the answer was essentially any item you can find in your kitchen.
One user got straight to the point with a comment that read “EVERYTHING! (Except sweets and desserts, haha)”. Another was a bit more specific. “Anything you want a savory, umami kick to,” they said. “Lots of people use it interchangeably with fish sauce. I put it in meatballs, turkey burgers, cocktail sauce, bloody Mary’s, stuffed mushrooms, etc.” Beyond endless usage recommendations, the thread also yielded some great advice to refer to Worcestershire sauce as “English soy sauce” to avoid any mispronunciations. We only wish we had thought of that.
“Your new favorite sauce (new to me) Korean YANGNYEOM sauce,” reads a Trader Joe’s Reddit post from three months ago. “It taste like sweet chili&teriyaki had a baby. So glad I picked it up.”
The sauce really was just released at Trader Joe’s, and so far, shoppers are eating it up. Yangnyeom sauce is a sweet and spicy variety, and the market’s version consists of a careful blend of soy sauce, miso paste, blackstrap molasses, ginger, mirin, garlic, gochugaru, and a few other spices. The story goes that it was invented by a Korean restaurant owner to soften his fried chicken after customers complained it was “too crunchy”. But it has since become a saucy sensation.
As the “perfect blend of “spicy, tang, and sweet”, as one customer put it, it’s being touted as a great complement not only for chicken but also salmon, tofu, veggies, beef, dumplings, bao buns…you name it.
You’re likely already familiar with the Original Japanese Barbecue Sauce from Bachan’s. It’s the brand’s true money sauce and the bold family recipe that launched it to national fame. But now people are also branching out to one of its sweet and savory spinoffs, The Original Japanese Dipping Sauce. The sauce is similar to its predecessor in terms of flavor, but carries a thicker texture thanks to a base of sesame paste and crushed sesame seeds.
A Reddit thread inevitably broke out to discuss the fresh find, and one user gave the perfect in-depth description of the sauce’s palate. “Overall, I think it’s very good,” they wrote. “Similar flavor profile of the OG sauce but nuttier and has a slight texture to it along with being much thicker. I’m actually pretty happy it isn’t just a thicker version, I love the flavor of sesame and I can see putting this on as a topper with so many things I make regularly. But really I’ll probably just dip those Kirkland nuggets in it.” Enough said.
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The post 5 Sauces Reddit Says Make Any Meal Taste Way Better appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Condiments are a must have pantry staple and essential to nearly any dish you’re whipping up. And we don’t mean the basics like ketchup or relish. We’re talking ones that can take your meal from so-so to unforgettable. The right condiment can do that effortlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting off in the kitchen, condiments are a critical part of a recipe that instantly elevates a dish.
From salads to meats to sides and sauces, simple yet key condiments can really compliment the flavor and take it to another level. But not any condiment can do that so Eat This, Not That! spoke with chefs and recipe developers who reveal their favorite go-to condiments that everyone should always keep around.
Calories
: 0Fat
: 0g (Saturated fat: 0g)Sodium
: 35mgCarbs
: 0g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 0g)Protein
: 0gTabasco is a versatile hot sauce that goes with everything and something Chef Julian, Chef at Spaghetti Western in Morongo Valley, Calif. is never caught without.
“It is an emergency item to have for all occasions. A hint of spice goes a long way in many dishes! Eggs, sandwiches, soups, sauces, It’s limitless! It also never goes bad!”
Calories
: 15Fat
: 0g (Saturated fat: 0g)Sodium
: 1,430 mgCarbs
: 0g (Fiber: 0g , Sugar: 0g)Protein
: 21gTo boost the flavor in stews, meats or of course fish, add a dab of Red Boat Fish Sauce. Just remember a little goes a long way. And for those watching your sodium intake, this product is probably not recommended. It has 1,430 mg in one serving.
“A splash can completely change a dish,” says Marissa Stevens ,recipe developer and food blogger at Pinch and Swirl.
She adds, “There are a lot of fish sauce brands out there, but this is by far my favorite. I use it in stir-fries, soups, and marinades. It smells strong, but when you use it right, you don’t taste “fish”—you just get more depth.”
For anyone with dietary restrictions, Hellman’s Plant Based Mayo Spread & Dressing is a must-have. It’s ideal for sandwiches, dips, sauces and salads. It’s something Kelly Costigan, recipe developer with Without Options LLC, highly recommends.
“I swear it tastes just like the real thing (seriously!!!). It’s vegan, gluten-free, and made without the top nine food allergens — which makes it safe for nearly everyone. Use it the next time you make Coleslaw so everyone at the party can eat it!”
When you want to add a kick to your dish, try Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp. It’s a condiment Stevens uses often.
“A spoonful goes a long way. I put it on eggs, stir it into noodles, or mix it with mayo for sandwiches. I even drizzle it over grilled veggies in the summertime. It’s crunchy, spicy, salty—exactly what you want when something needs a kick.”
A good Dijon mustard has a complex taste consisting of a unique blend of sharp, tangy and spice without overpowering a dish. It’s the one condiment multiple chefs we talked to recommended.
“I always have a jar of this Dijon mustard in my fridge,” Kyle Taylor, Founder / Chef at HE COOKS says. “I use it more than any other condiment. It’s wildly versatile, and I regularly use it in sauces, marinades, and vinaigrettes. Its sharp, tangy flavor, subtle umami notes, and natural emulsifier properties make it pure magic.”
Stevens also uses Maille Dijon Original Mustard.
“It’s sharp without being harsh, and it blends right into dressings, sauces, and even potato salad without taking over. I’ve tried many Dijon mustards over the years, and this is the one I always come back to.”
Chef Julian agrees Dijon mustard is the No. 1 condiment that should always be in stock and while he doesn’t use a specific brand, there’s always some type of Dijon mustard in his kitchen.
“Dijon mustard is used in all vinaigrettes, sauces, sandwiches and used to make mayo and salads. It’s even used in classic dishes to sear meat such as Beef Bourguignon.”
Kewpie Mayonnaise isn’t your average mayo. It has a mild yet distinct taste that stands out without taking over the dish.
Steven says, “This is nothing like the standard mayo I grew up with—it’s richer, thanks to egg yolks, and has that slightly savory edge I love. I use it in egg salad, quick slaws, and for making sriracha mayo. It’s also great for grilled sandwiches.”
Greek Yogurt might not be your typical condiment, Rachel Kirk, recipe developer and a seasoned food blogger with LaughingSpatula.com swap out mayo for Fage Greek Yogurt and has enjoyed countless dishes she’s created ever since.
“I needed something that provided a creamy rich base, but without all of the fat of mayonnaise,” she explains. “The added protein of yogurt is also such a bonus. Greek yogurt is my absolute condiment go-to when I need to whip up a batch of a creamy based dip. I use it as a base for tzatziki, ranch, roasted red pepper dip, a healthy Big Mac sauce for burger bowls, there are so many uses for it!”
She added, “I usually buy the big containers, but sometimes I just use the individual serving cups when I don’t feel like dirtying another dish which is super convenient.”
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The post 7 Condiments Chefs Swear By That Instantly Make Food Taste Better appeared first on Eat This Not That.
You don’t need a lab or fancy equipment to find out how fit you really are. These seven strength tests give you real-world insights into how your body is aging and how much strength, stability, and power you’ve held onto over the years. They reveal if your training is working and what you need to improve to keep moving like your younger self.
These tests challenge key aspects of strength like balance, core control, muscular endurance, and joint mobility. They also highlight potential weak spots that hold you back or set you up for injury. Whether you’re just curious or taking your training more seriously, these benchmarks are a powerful way to stay accountable.
Don’t worry if you can’t ace every test right now. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s awareness. These movements are designed to push your limits in a safe, measurable way so you build a stronger, more capable body for the years ahead. Perform each test with intention, and use your results to guide your next phase of training.
The 60-second pushup test shows how well your upper body and core work together under pressure. It measures your muscular endurance and highlights how efficiently you generate force without burning out. Pushups may seem basic, but doing them with good form over time requires serious strength.
What it means: If you’re hitting 30 or more full pushups with proper form, your upper body endurance is in a great place. Fewer than 15 may suggest you need more foundational strength work.
The wall sit test gauges strength and stamina in your quads, glutes, and core. It’s a straightforward way to see how long your muscles support your body under static tension. It also shows how well your body handles lactic acid buildup and mental fatigue.
What it means: Holding for 60 seconds or more means you’ve got solid lower-body endurance. If you struggle to hold 30 seconds, your legs may need more strength and stamina training.
The dead hang test assesses grip strength, shoulder stability, and upper-body endurance all in one. It’s also a great indicator of joint health in your shoulders, elbows, and wrists. Strong performance here means your body supports its own weight efficiently.
What it means: Holding on for 30 seconds is average, while 60 seconds or more shows excellent grip and shoulder strength. Less than 20 seconds suggests you may benefit from more pulling strength and grip training.
Sit-to-stand tests evaluate lower-body strength, coordination, and balance, especially through your hips and glutes. It mimics a daily movement pattern and shows how much power and control your legs still have without assistance.
What it means: If you do 12 to 15 reps or more, your lower body is strong and efficient. Fewer than 8 suggests a need for focused strength and stability training.
Balance often declines with age, but single-leg balance tests whether your stabilizers and nervous system remain sharp. It’s a strong predictor of fall risk and neuromuscular coordination. You’ll also feel how well your hips and ankles work together.
What it means: A time of 10 seconds or more with eyes closed is solid. Less than 5 seconds means you could benefit from more stability and proprioception work.
The plank hold should be your go-to test for core strength, spinal alignment, and endurance. A strong core supports every other movement you do, and this test shows if your midsection is up for the task. It also challenges your shoulders, glutes, and even your breathing.
What it means: Holding a solid plank for 60 seconds is a great baseline. If you’re under 30 seconds, it may be time to build up core strength and control.
The step-up power test measures single-leg strength, power, and coordination. Explosive strength tends to decline as we age, and this shows whether your body still generates upward force quickly and safely.
What it means: If you complete 10 or more powerful reps per leg in 30 seconds, your lower-body power is in a strong place. Less than 6 may point to a need for strength and power training.
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The post 7 Strength Tests That Show Whether Your Body Is Still Young appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Panda Express is beloved for their generous portions, quick service and flavorful signature dishes like Orange Chicken and Honey Walnut Shrimp, but it’s not a place you’d typically go for health-conscious choices. Fast-food isn’t a go-to for nutrition, but Panda Express is an exception.
The Chinese fast-food chain has several items on their menu that are dietitian approved that don’t compromise on taste, according to Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD. From chicken to beef and veggies, there are many options to choose from that won’t completely bust your health and wellness goals. Here are seven dishes at Panda Express that are delicious and not terrible for you ranked in order from healthy to best.
The Black Pepper Sirloin Steak ranks No. 7 for healthy orders at Panda Express due to its moderate amount of calories and carbs.
“With just 9 grams of carbs and 280 calories, it’s a good option for those watching their blood sugar or calorie intake,” says Sabat. “It also provides 13 grams of protein, which can help support muscle maintenance and keep you feeling full longer.”
Sabat explains, “While the sodium is on the higher side at 1,130, it’s still a better pick than many deep-fried or heavily sauced dishes, especially when balanced with lower-sodium sides like Super Greens or plain brown rice.”
Black Pepper Chicken isn’t as widely available as it was and Redditors are upset. That said, it’s still in a few locations and it’s a healthier choice although it’s higher in sodium, according to Sabat.
“This entrée features marinated chicken with celery and onions in a bold black pepper sauce. It’s a flavorful, lower-calorie option that still provides a decent amount of protein. With only 9 grams of carbs and 8 net carbs, this makes a nice low carb option for people watching their sugar intake.”
While the nutrition facts are essentially the same as the Black Pepper Sirloin, the Black Pepper Chicken’s serving size is a bigger amount, therefore landing on the list at No. 6.
The Steamed Ginger Fish is a tasty and good alternative, but for those watching their sodium intake, think twice before ordering or ask for the sauce on the side.
“The Steamed Ginger Fish is a healthy option due to its light calorie load, clean protein source, and low carbohydrate content,” says Sabat. “At just 200 calories and 15 grams of protein, it provides a satisfying and lean meal that supports muscle maintenance without overloading on carbs or sugar.”
She explains, “The 12 grams of fat come primarily from heart-healthy unsaturated fats, and with 0 grams of trans fat, it’s a cleaner choice than many fried or processed options. While the sodium is high at 1,990mg, this dish can still fit into a balanced day when paired with low-sodium choices like fruit or greens. Its simple preparation and anti-inflammatory ginger make it especially appealing for those looking for a light, nourishing meal.”
Grilled chicken is usually a smart choice when dining out, but be mindful what it’s marinated in. A heavily sugary sauce reduces the health benefits.
“With 36 grams of protein, the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken supports muscle maintenance and satiety, making it especially beneficial for weight loss or active lifestyles,” Sabat says. “The 8 grams of carbohydrates are relatively low, helping to keep blood sugar stable, and the sodium content at 590mg is moderate compared to many fast food options.”
She added, “Choosing the teriyaki sauce on the side helps limit added sugars, making this a balanced and satisfying entrée.”
Hot and Sour Soup is a healthy addition to your meal without worrying about calorie overload.
“With just 120 calories and 7 grams of protein, it offers a good nutrient-to-calorie ratio, especially for a soup,” says Sabat. “The tofu adds plant-based protein, while mushrooms and bamboo shoots contribute fiber and antioxidants.”
She adds, “Although the sodium is moderately high at 870mg, it’s still lower than many other soup options and easy to balance with lower-sodium entrées. Its low fat and sugar content also make it a smart pick for those watching their overall intake.”
Broccoli Beef is not only a popular meal at Panda Express, but one of the healthiest, according to Sabat.
She explains, “At just 150 calories per serving, it’s a light yet satisfying choice that combines lean slices of beef for 9 grams of protein with fiber-rich broccoli to support digestion and fullness.”
Sabat also likes the low amount of carbs.
“The 13 grams of carbs come mainly from natural sources, with 2 grams of fiber and only 7 grams of sugar. With a moderate sodium level of 520mg, it’s one of the lower-sodium options on the menu. This dish makes a great pairing with Super Greens for a balanced, protein-rich, and low-carb meal.”
The healthiest item at Panda Express, according to Sabat, are the Super Greens.
Swap out rice or noodles for the Super Greens, pair it with a clean dish like Broccoli Beef or Grilled Teriyaki Chicken and you have a satisfying, tasty meal.
Sabat explains, “A mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage, Super Greens is a nutrient-rich light meal that provides fiber and essential vitamins. It’s a low-calorie alternative to rice or noodles, making it an excellent base for your meal also. With only 6 net carbs and 6 grams of protein, this healthy mix of greens gives you a lot of bang for your calories.”
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The post 7 Panda Express Orders Dietitians Say Are Shockingly Healthy appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Going for a good old-fashioned walk works wonders for the mind, body, and soul. Sure, it may be a simple exercise, but there’s something invigorating about lacing up your sneakers, hitting the trails, and breathing the fresh air. You may have your go-to neighborhood walk, or perhaps you prefer checking out new routes. Whatever be the case, we chatted with an expert to learn eight ways to burn more calories on every walk without picking up the pace. (You can thank us later!)
Terrain is the “silent MVP” of your walks, says Joe Ghafari, a certified personal trainer, nutritionist, and weight-loss specialist at Eden.
If you want to maximize the results of each walk, Joe encourages you to ditch the flatter routes every so often. “The terrain does the work for you,” he says.
For instance, Joe explains, “Walking on the beach can burn up to 50% more calories than pavement. Your feet sink, your calves and hamstrings work overtime, and your core fights for balance. It’s a full-body burn, trust me.”
A soft, grassy surface recruits more muscles to stabilize your steps. It’s an excellent choice for joint health, too—especially if you’re a long-distance walker.
Lastly, trails that have rocks, roots, and inclines provide an incredible calorie-burning workout.
“It’s like your body’s playing obstacle course detective the whole time,” Joe says. “That unpredictability forces constant adaptation, which means you’re using more energy even at a chill pace.”
RELATED: 6 Best Walking Workouts You Can Do on Your Local Track
Walking backward—also known as retro walking—may sound and look a tad silly, but just wait until you experience the underrated benefits.
“It demands balance, coordination, and a whole new muscle pattern. Yes—it burns more,” explains Joe. “Even five minutes of backward walking can feel like a leg day finisher if you’re not used to it.”
Get ready to feel the best kind of lower-body burn by adding walking lunges to your classic cardio sesh. Joe recommends incorporating 10 to 20 walking lunges every few blocks, “and you’ve basically snuck in strength training mid-walk.”
RELATED: 10 Walking Tips for Beginners To Lose More Weight
Put your outer glutes and core to work with side steps and lateral walks. Joe says this tip is especially useful for individuals who work a desk job, lead a more sedentary life, or have knee pain due to straight-line movement all day.
“Think of it this way: Walking in a straight line is like cruise control,” Joe explains. “The moment you step sideways or go backward, your stabilizers, glutes, and core fire up like crazy to keep you steady. That metabolic demand adds up, especially over time.”
If you haven’t hopped on the rucking bandwagon, now’s the perfect time to do so. Rucking—walking with a weighted rucksack or vest—has gained much popularity over the years, and for good reason. You’re blending strength training and cardio into one session.
According to Joe, “Even a 10-pound vest increases resistance and calorie burn while keeping your hands free.”
RELATED: I Replaced Regular Walks With ‘Rucking’ for 2 Weeks & Saw My Endurance Skyrocket
Wearing one to three-pound hand or ankle weights makes your upper and lower body work harder with every single step.
“Keep form tight, swing with intention, don’t flail,” Joe instructs.
No weights? No problem! Another productive way to incorporate strength training into your walks is by performing bodyweight circuits. Joe recommends stopping every 5 minutes and doing 10 squats, 10 pushups on a bench, or 10 jump squats.
RELATED: 5 Walking Habits That Can Reshape Your Body in No Time
Walk Nordic style by using walking poles. It’s incredible how much of a game-changer walking with poles can be.
“You’ll engage more upper body, improve posture, and can boost calorie burn by 15 to 20%,” Joe tells us. “Plus, they’re great on trails.”
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The post 8 Ways To Burn More Calories On Every Walk Without Picking Up the Pace appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Shake Shack is adding a delicious new side to the menu for the first time since the chain launched in July 2004: Fried Pickles! These crispy, crunchy golden bites taste just like the pickles from a BBQ sandwich, elevated to “main character status”, the company says, and will be available for a limited time starting Tuesday, May 20.
Each serving of fried dill pickles is made with a seasoned batter blend and served with house-made Shack Ranch for dipping, with pricing starting at $3.99. According to Shake Shack, customers were thrilled with the fried pickle topping as part of 2024’s summer BBQ menu rollout, and wanted more side options, so Shake Shack “listened, and delivered.”
Rumors about the Fried Pickles side have been circulating for a while, with one Redditor saying, “Yes!! Can’t wait for them to roll out hehehe,” when someone asked if the delicious pickles would ever become a menu item. As Shake Shack pointed out, customers have been raving about the pickles since getting to try them as part of the burgers last year. “Do any current or past ss employees know what pickles they use? i can’t get them out of my head,” one guest said.
“Carolina BBQ Burger with Fried Pickles is phenomenal!
Really liked the cherry limeade too & kept reaching for it from the heat of the spicy fries, boy are they hot! I’m glad the burger was drive thru exclusive yesterday cause I had a monster appetite & really lost myself in how good it was 
,” another happy guest commented.
Shake Shack’s year-round menu selection is concise but excellent, offering the usual burger chain staples such as hamburgers, sandwiches, fries, and shakes. The restaurant just brought back the Summer BBQ menu, which consists of the Smoky Classic BBQ Burger, Carolina BBQ Burger with Fried Pickles, Smoky Classic BBQ Chicken, Carolina BBQ Chicken, Spicy Fries with Ranch, and Spicy Cheese Fries with Ranch. The restaurant also released three summer shakes: Oreo Cookie Funnel Cake Shake, Banana Pudding Shake, and Campfire S’mores Shake.
Fans appreciate the seasonal menu items as something different to enjoy, albeit it for a limited time only. “The Smokeshack burger rocks. The summer seasonal burger with fried pickles was insanely good. They’ve been consistent in my experience. I don’t go out for burgers often, so the extra price isn’t a big deal to me,” one Redditor shared. “Shake Shack is my favorite burger, like favorite favorite. I don’t care if it isn’t the best or if snobs don’t like it. Their Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich is up there too,” another said.
As part of their Summer Menu promotion, Shake Shack is giving out free, sauce-proof, disposable tees and tanks to protect from the BBQ sauce messiness, in select locations this month while supplies last:
New York City – Williamsburg
Philadelphia – Center City
Austin – Domain
Charlotte – Park Road
Kansas City – Country Club Plaza
Nashville – Franklin
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The post Shake Shack Is Launching a New Side For the First Time Ever appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Throwing a party is stressful, especially when you’re in charge of the food. While you want to serve crowd-pleasing appetizers, who has time to spend countless hours cooking everything from scratch? The frozen aisle is the first place to start. It’s full of easy options, but not all are worthy of being served to guests.
It is true that most things don’t beat homemade, but some items come close. While not everything in the frozen section is something you’d want at a shindig, there’s a few options that consistently impress shoppers and earn glowing reviews.
Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration, holiday get-together, game night or just a night to enjoy friends, here are the best seven frozen appetizers that fans say are worth bringing home.
You’ll win guests over with just one bite of the Trader Joe’s Pastry Bites with Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onion. And what’s not to love? They’re flaky, buttery and addictive.
Customers love them and Reddit user Koi_Erotica wrote, “These yummy little bites have become my favorite fall snack to enjoy. The pastry is fluffy, buttery and the cheese pairs so well with the pieces of caramelized onion. I love serving them with fresh fruit drizzled with a little hot honey. Enjoy.”
Another person agreed and wrote, “These are almost too good. In my top 5 favorite products from TJ’s for sure.”
TGI Fridays Loaded Potato Skins are classic for a reason. They strike the right balance of melted cheddar, bacon, and green onions and you can make them as crispy as you’d like. Top them off with sour cream and you have a top-notch dish people will love.
One Redditor wrote, “I air fried them following their instructions and they came out perfect. It’s like a piece of baked potato with cheese and bacon. Nice and crispy and just enough grease. Hits the spot.”
Another shared, “I add left over rotisserie chicken with the hello fresh southwest seasoning on those. Stuff is amazing for parties.”
Mac and cheese is always a hit and shoppers love Devour Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese Bites. Loaded with creamy cheese and just the right amount of buffalo kick, the bite-sized goodness is crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
Reddit user dimension-less wrote, “Probably my fave frozen mac.”
Another chimed in and shared, “My son loves this stuff.”
Impress your party goers with Trader Joe’s Crispy Potato & Poblano Pepper Tacos that are beloved for their flavorful filling and crunchy texture.
Redditors are obsessed.
One user wrote, “I loved them! I put some shredded cheese inside after cooking them in the oven (melted perfectly) and ate them w/homemade guac. Delicious!”
Another shared, “I love them! I’m a vegetarian that doesn’t like tofu or faux meat products (it’s a texture thing 
) and I love potato tacos. These are so much more convenient than making them myself. I add shredded cheese and dip in sour cream. Next time I’m gonna add cilantro and lettuce also.”
Totino’s Frozen Pizza Rolls, Pepperoni are rated 4.7 on Amazon and apparently they’re so popular, they’re currently sold out.
One shopper wrote, “They must have been really good, considering they didn’t even last a day in my freezer! My parents tried them, loved the taste, and proceeded to eat them all. Good price considering my glutinous family was full after.”
Another customer shared, “They are the best! I mean who doesn’t love pepperoni pizza rolls?!! I will always be a repeat customer!!”
Mozzarella sticks are always a safe bet and you can pick up a Member’s Mark 72 count box at Sam’s Club for $13.98. Your guests will thank you.
The latest reviewer from a Sam’s Club shopper wrote, “Me and my kids love these sticks they hold up in the air fryer and when they are cooked.”
Another shopper shared they’re a “must have” and raved about the quality. “Better than the restaurant brands. Love these Mozzarella Sticks.”
Another Trader Joe’s frozen appetizer that will get the attention of your guests is the Mini Vegetable Samosas. The outside is perfectly flaky, while the inside is filled with a savory curry-like blend of peas, carrots, potatoes, lentils, onions, and Indian spices. In terms of a dipping sauce, Redditors have a lot of ideas. There’s an entire thread dedicated to TJ’s Mini Vegetable Samosas and what sauce to pair them with.
Royal-Owl1132 wrote, “Oh my gosh, my wife and I love dipping these with the TJ’s sweet chili sauce.”
Another person wrote, “sauce? I eat them too quick to bother with sauce. Wish I had the typical green samosa chutney you get at the resturant to eat with them. but I haven’t ever seen that in a jar.”
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Costco offers impressive deals on a huge amount of items, but not everything at the warehouse chain is the absolute best deal you can get. Customers who compare prices for goods between Costco and local grocery stores find that in some specific cases, it’s actually better to get certain items elsewhere, even with the store’s generous return policy. So which products do members feel are just not worth the Costco rates? Here are seven Costco items members say are too overpriced for what they are.
Shoppers frequently complain about the price of fresh produce compared to local grocery stores, especially with how quickly the produce goes off. “Look. I get that you can freeze the veggies. But I get cheaper produce at my local Asian mart and I can actually choose the amount I need. I don’t have to buy 6 bell peppers at once,” one member said.
Costco’s batteries are notorious for having issues, customers say. “Their batteries are terrible. They will ruin whatever you put them in as they leak really easily. Sometimes they just leak sitting on the shelf in their container,” one member said. “I was just complaining about this yesterday! Went to change batteries on my scale and I had to toss 13 new batteries away due to leaks or because they were simply dead! I was so annoyed,” another commented.
Bakery items like bread are not worth it at Costco, shoppers say. “Bread and bagels. The prices are better at Trader Joe’s,” one shopper said. “Trader Joe’s and Costco are near each other for us so we often go to Trader Joe’s to get bread, bagels, arugula, soy chorizo, soy sausages, and other items where we prefer smaller quantities; before going to Costco.”
RELATED: The No. 1 Costco Mistake That’s Costing You Money, Experts Say
Reviews are mixed about the Costco furniture options. “I find all their indoor furniture to be overpriced and of poor quality,” one Redditor said. “Have you tried their online selections? The ones they usually display in store are pretty basic. I’m pretty impressed by some of their modern/mid-century looking leather sofas for a decent price. Curious about their quality,” another said.
Meat is no longer as cheap at Costco as some grocery stores, members say. “If you’re willing to pay for prime it’s true Costco has it while many grocery stores do not, but my local grocery stores (Harris Teeter most notably) often offers good specials on their choice beef to get people in the door and the marbling is decent. Can get choice strips or ribeyes (they’ll cut them as thick as you like) for $8-$9 and you don’t have to buy 4lbs worth to get the deal like you do at Costco,” one shopper said.
Costco’s yogurt melt snacks aren’t worth the money, shoppers say. “I got tricked by some yogurt melts for my kid. It was a big box so I thought dang this is another great Costco deal – get home and it’s like 5 tiny bags of yogurt melts that cost like 20. Way overpriced,” one Redditor said. “Just got those, too. I don’t understand the point of feeding them as they don’t seem to be very filling, either,” another agreed.
Costco chicken has taken a dip in quality and is not worth the price, customers say. “The beef and chicken at my store in socal is cheap but not worth it. Yes it has plenty of fat, but the chicken is super woody and the steaks have no flavor,” one shopper said. “The chicken! Stopped buying it 2 years ago because the texture was so gross always. Went down a rabbit hole and discovered woody chicken,” another agreed.
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It’s safe to say that most of us don’t expect our meals to be healthy when we order at McDonald’s. For starters, fast food is often packed full of saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, calories, and added sugar. Plus, McDonald’s has notoriously unhealthy items like its Big Breakfast, Double Quarter Pounder, and Big Mac. But among the entire McDonald’s menu full of burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, shakes, breakfast, and more, what are the worst orders when it comes to our health?
To get to the bottom of the unhealthiest McDonald’s orders, we talked with expert dietitian Mary Sabat MS, RDN, LD. She looked at the whole menu and picked the worst items based on total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, added sugars, and total calories.
It’s no surprise that the Big Mac makes the list of worst McDonald’s items. With two patties, three buns, melted cheese, and the signature Big Mac Sauce, this burger packs in 11 grams of saturated fat and over 1,000 milligrams of sodium. It may not be as calorie-dense as something like the Double Quarter Pounder, but the levels of saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium are still concerning.
“The Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese is one of the most unhealthy burgers on the McDonald’s menu due to its excessive saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium content,” says Sabat. “At 740 calories, it provides nearly half the daily caloric needs for many people in just one sandwich. Even more concerning is the 20 grams of saturated fat—98% of your daily limit—and 2.5 grams of trans fat, which is known to raise LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease.”
Sabat also notes the dangerously high levels of cholesterol and sodium in this burger, “putting significant strain on your cardiovascular system.”
According to Sabat, the McDonald’s Big Breakfast is one of the worst choices on the menu for your health, “due to its extremely high levels of calories, fat, sodium, and added sugars—all packed into a single meal.”
“At 1,060 calories, it provides over half the daily energy needs for many people, and the 48 grams of total fat (including 18 grams of saturated fat) accounts for 90% of your daily saturated fat limit. Even more alarming is the 1,540 milligrams of sodium, which is about two-thirds of your daily max, and the 54 grams of added sugar—more than twice the recommended daily limit,” says Sabat.
You may not think that a frozen coffee drink would be all that bad, especially if you order a small, but even the smallest size McCafe Caramel Frappe packs in the calories, fat, saturated fat, trans fat, and added sugars.
“At 420 calories, it delivers nearly as much energy as a full meal—but with little to no real nutritional value,” says Sabat. “The 53 grams of sugar (44 grams added) equals more than 10 teaspoons of sugar, nearing or exceeding the recommended daily limit for adults, and it also contains 11 grams of saturated fat, or 56% of your daily allowance, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels if consumed regularly.”
The McDonald’s Chocolate Shake (in any size) is something you want to leave as a “once in a while” indulgence, but the large size is exceptionally concerning when it comes to nutrition. This shake packs in 800 calories, 13 grams of saturated fat, and over 100 grams of sugar.
According to Sabat, another McDonald’s frozen treat you may want to skip or limit is the McFlurry with M & M’s Candies.
“The McFlurry with M&M’s Candies may seem like a fun and colorful dessert, but nutritionally, it’s one of the worst offenders on the McDonald’s menu. At 570 calories, it delivers more energy than many full meals, mostly from sugar and saturated fat, and with 74 grams of total sugar, including 62 grams of added sugar, it contains over double the recommended daily limit for adults in just one serving,” says Sabat.
She also notes, “The saturated fat clocks in at 12 grams (61% of your daily value), which can negatively impact heart health over time, and while it does offer 11 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber, that’s not nearly enough to counterbalance the excessive sugar, making this a dessert best left as an occasional indulgence, not a regular treat.”
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The post The 6 Unhealthiest McDonald’s Orders Ranked appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Costco is a great place to shop for everything from produce and meat to electronics. But the warehouse’s revolving door of delicious snacks is what really ropes me in every visit. Who doesn’t love discovering a new, delightful snack, whether in the form of a savory chip and dip or a sweet treat? Here are 7 new Costco snacks shoppers are raving about this week to tantalize all your tastebuds.
Padrino Pork Tamales are “insane,” according to shoppers. “Boil water and drop in the bag. 15-20 mins later you have amazing tamales. Better than homemade. Run don’t walk my friends,” one Redditor shared. “The tamale connoisseur in the house (raised on abuela’s tamales) couldn’t snarf these Padrino’s down fast enough. Two bags barely lasted 4 days—they were eaten breakfast, lunch and dinner. Would’ve bought more but they were out of them when we went back to a NC Costco. Haven’t seen them since,” another agreed.
One Redditor recently shared about Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Pork Rinds. “10/10 if you’re a fan of the original puffs. Same flavor and the pork rinds themselves have a light and airy crunch. Some brands have some very tough pork rinds but I haven’t experienced that with the bag I’ve tried so far,” they wrote. “Just got them and I love them,” one shopper said.
If you find Queso Mama at your warehouse, don’t think, just buy, according to shoppers. One person shared that their warehouse recently got stocked with new flavors, including chorizo and brisket. “If this display shows up at my Costco they better have bulk Ozempic and Lipitor next to it,” one person commented. “My warehouse recently had the chorizo one, I thought it was good,” another commented. “Brisket is the GOAT. Chorizo is a close second,” another chimed in.
RELATED: The No. 1 Costco Mistake That’s Costing You Money, Experts Say
Jonny Pops are my go-to for a healthier popsicle. Stores nationwide just got in Organic Freezer Pops. “Each 48-count bag includes three delicious flavors: Cherry, Fruit Punch, and Grape! They’re PERFECT for the beach, pool parties, backyard treats, or just to cool down with on a hot summer day! Even better, they’re free from artificial dyes and the Big 9 US Allergens…they’re completely organic AND tasty! Plus these pops are shelf-stable, just freeze at home!” writes Costco Buys. “These look so refreshing,” one wrote. “Just in time for warm weather!” another added.
Costco Buys recently made an exciting announcement. “Viral @fruitriot Frozen Sour Grapes SPOTTED at California Costco locations!” they shared in a post. “These ridiculously popular red & green frozen grapes are covered in lemon juice and a sour candy coating! 
Each bag has three delicious flavors: Mixed Berry, Green Apple, and Lemon-Lime.” Shoppers were psyched. “Omg yesss! So good!!” one commented.
You can now buy fresh pita bread from the Costco bakery. Each bag comes with nine rounds, perfect for eating with hummus or your favorite Costco dip.. “I’ve hoped for so long for a pita bread in the Costco bakery and it’s so soft, doughy and perfect!” Costco Hot Finds shared, calling it “absolutely amazing” and “so soft and fluffy.” In case you can’t eat it all at once, she maintains that it freezes well.
Protein bars that are basically a healthier version of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups? Yes, please. One Reese’s bars offer 18 grams of protein and just 3 grams of sugar. “Yum Reese’s protein bars at Costco!” Costo Hot Finds shared. “These are delicious!! Great for before going to work out. Also, a great snack on the go so I don’t get hangry!!” one person commented.
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