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Sometimes, you just don’t want to cook.
Whole Foods Market
But that’s where the convenience of a grocery store comes in.
Many chains have already prepared foods, which can be a lifesaver.
There’s no cooking, it saves time, and best of all, there’s no cleanup.
Whole Foods
So, what makes a good prepared food department?
According toChef William Davis, Executive Chef at theNourish CafeatPop Life, there are three things to look for.
“The first is quality,” he says.
Trader Joe’s
The second aspect to watch out for, per Chef William, is creativity.
The final thing to keep in mind when buying prepared food is cost.
“Is the value there, compared to if I purchased the product and did it myself?
Gelson’s
And is it cost-effective for me to buy it at the store vs. dining out?”
Whole Foods
Whole Foods has impressive quick and easy meal solutions that are also healthy.
There’s also a salad bar with fresh fruits and veggies to make a delicious meal.
Fresh Thyme Market
Shoppers love the store’s prepared items and have been vocal about their favorite foods.
OneReddit user wrote, “The bag salad kits have been a lifesaver for me.
It’s fresh veggies, but it’s also super quick and easy to prepare.
Wegmans
Even with those modifications, I have a meal in usually 10 minutes or less.”
I just pop everything onto a plate and mix together as I defrost in the microwave."
Just heat up and enjoy a nice meal.
Hy-Vee
They are tasty and not too expensive.
Apparently, everyone else does, too, because they are rarely in stock."
If you’d rather pop something in the oven to bake, there are plenty of options as well.
Stew Leonard’s
Whether you’re in the mood for lemon garlic chicken or meatloaf, the mid-Atlantic chain has you covered.
2 giant slices of pizza & a soda for 6 bucks is an awesome, easy lunch."
The sushi is also a big hit.
Bristol Farms
ARedditorwrote, “Bristol Farms has pretty consistently satisfying hot and prepared foods.
