8 winco bulk buys I portion for zero waste

Shopping in bulk at WinCo Foods has become an essential part of my lifestyle, allowing me to minimize waste and save money. By carefully portioning these items, I ensure that nothing goes to waste while maintaining a pantry stocked with essentials. Here are eight bulk buys that I always scoop up at WinCo and how I manage them for a zero-waste lifestyle.

Oats

Oats are a versatile staple in my kitchen, perfect for breakfast, baking, and even savory dishes. At WinCo, I can buy oats in bulk, which means I can get just the right amount I need without unnecessary packaging. I store them in airtight glass jars to keep them fresh and ready for use. Oats are not just for oatmeal; I use them to make overnight oats, granola bars, and even add them to smoothies for an extra fiber boost.

By portioning my oats, I can avoid the dreaded scenario of finding a pantry full of expired oatmeal. I measure out weekly portions in reusable containers, ensuring that I only cook what I plan to eat. This strategy not only keeps my pantry organized but also helps me avoid food waste, which is a win-win situation.

Rice

Rice is another bulk buy that makes sense for anyone looking to reduce waste and save money. I purchase different varieties like basmati, jasmine, and brown rice, each serving a unique purpose in my meals. Storing rice in clear containers not only keeps it free from pests but also allows me to see when I need to restock.

To manage portions, I use a simple trick: I measure out one-cup servings and store them in glass jars. This makes meal prep easier and ensures I don’t cook more than I need. Rice is a pantry staple that can be used in countless dishes, from stir-fries to rice puddings, so having it properly portioned is essential for a zero-waste lifestyle.

Lentils

Lentils are an affordable and nutritious option that I always buy in bulk. Their versatility in dishes such as soups, stews, and salads makes them a must-have in my pantry. I opt for different types like green, red, and black lentils, each offering a unique texture and flavor.

When it comes to portioning lentils, I rely on small jars or containers that hold just enough for a single recipe. This way, I avoid the hassle of measuring each time I cook. By pre-portioning, I can quickly whip up a hearty lentil curry or a simple lentil salad without any guesswork, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a protein-packed grain that I love to use in place of rice or pasta. Buying it in bulk at WinCo allows me to take home exactly what I need, without the extra plastic packaging. I store quinoa in sealed jars to maintain its freshness and prevent any loss of quality.

I portion quinoa into half-cup servings, which is typically what I use for a single meal. This makes it easy to cook and ensures I don’t end up with leftovers that might go uneaten. Quinoa is a fantastic base for salads, bowls, and side dishes, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Pasta

Pasta is a pantry essential in my home, and buying it in bulk is both economical and eco-friendly. WinCo offers a variety of pasta shapes, allowing me to choose exactly what I want without the wasteful packaging. Once home, I transfer the pasta into large glass jars to keep it fresh and easily accessible.

Pre-portioning pasta helps me avoid cooking too much or too little. I use a kitchen scale to measure out the exact amount needed for a meal, usually around 2 ounces per person. This method keeps my pasta consumption in check and eliminates the tendency to prepare more than necessary, reducing food waste significantly.

Beans

Beans are a versatile and nutritious bulk buy that I can’t do without. From black beans to chickpeas, buying them in bulk means I can take home what I need and avoid excess packaging. I store dried beans in airtight containers, ensuring they remain pest-free and ready to cook.

To streamline my cooking process, I pre-measure beans into 1-cup portions, which is typically the amount needed for most recipes. This simplifies meal prep and allows me to soak or cook just the right amount. Beans are a great addition to soups, salads, and main dishes, making them a must-have in my zero-waste pantry.

Nuts

Nuts are a delicious and nutritious snack that I always buy in bulk to avoid the small, wasteful bags they often come in. At WinCo, I can find a variety of nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews, which I store in airtight containers to keep them fresh and crunchy.

By portioning nuts into smaller servings, I can control how much I consume and prevent them from going stale. I use small jars or containers to hold about ¼ cup of nuts, perfect for snacking or adding to dishes. This way, I always have the right amount on hand, and nothing goes to waste.

Spices

Spices are an essential part of cooking, and buying them in bulk allows me to stock up without the excess packaging. WinCo offers a wide selection of spices, and I love being able to buy just what I need to fill my spice jars at home. This not only saves money but also keeps my spice drawer organized and free from clutter.

When it comes to portioning spices, I refill my jars as needed, ensuring I always have fresh spices on hand. This method prevents spices from losing their potency over time and minimizes waste. With the right spices, I can elevate any dish, making them a valuable component of my zero-waste kitchen.