Navigating the Costco Salad Aisle
Costco is known for its oversized products and bulk savings, and its selection of pre-made salads is no exception. Shoppers can find two main types of ready-made salads: the deli section salads, which are typically larger and fully assembled, and the packaged salad kits from brands like Taylor Farms, which include all the necessary components for assembly. The "best" choice is subjective, depending on your health goals, budget, and flavor preferences. We'll break down the top contenders to help you decide.
The Top Pre-Made Salads and Kits
The Fan-Favorite: Taylor Farms Sweet Kale Salad Kit
This kit is a perpetual fan-favorite for good reason. It features a robust blend of superfoods, including kale, shredded broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and chicory. The dressing is a poppyseed-style vinaigrette, and the kit comes with dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds for added texture and sweetness. It's an excellent balance of healthy greens and satisfying additions. Many members use it as a base and add their own protein, like grilled chicken or salmon, to create a complete meal. At approximately 180 calories per serving, it's a lighter option compared to some of the richer deli salads.
The All-in-One Meal: Kirkland Signature Chicken Street Tacos Kit
While technically a taco kit, many shoppers consider this a deconstructed, hearty salad option. It comes with a substantial amount of seasoned, pre-cooked chicken, shredded cabbage, cheese, salsa, tortillas, and a fantastic cilantro lime crema. Reviews often praise the generous portions and vibrant flavor of the crema. However, it's worth noting that the chicken's texture can be a bit processed for some tastes, and it is a less traditional salad option. It represents excellent value, often feeding a family for multiple meals.
The Mediterranean Delight: Taylor Farms Mediterranean Crunch Chopped Salad Kit
This kit has gained a dedicated following for its unique flavor profile. It includes romaine lettuce, cauliflower stalks, broccoli, carrots, red cabbage, and feta cheese, all topped with a vibrant white shallot balsamic vinaigrette. It offers a fresh, crisp, and diverse mix of ingredients. For those looking for a healthier, flavorful salad without heavy, creamy dressings, this is a top-tier choice. It provides a delightful crunch and a sophisticated taste that feels less like a convenience meal.
The Classic Choice: Kirkland Signature Chicken Caesar Salad
Found in the deli section, this is a ready-to-eat, classic option featuring romaine lettuce, shredded Parmesan, Caesar dressing, croutons, and chopped rotisserie chicken. It’s a convenient, protein-packed meal for one or two people. However, it’s important to note its nutritional information: a standard serving can be quite high in calories, mostly from the rich dressing. Health-conscious eaters can manage this by using less dressing or opting for a lighter alternative. It is a satisfying, no-fuss option for a quick lunch.
The Health-Conscious Pick: Kirkland Signature Grain & Celery Salad
For those seeking a nutritious, plant-forward option, the Grain & Celery Salad is a standout. It features a blend of chickpeas, quinoa, bulgur wheat, and kale, with accents of dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and a tasty apple cider vinaigrette. This salad is packed with fiber and protein, making it an incredibly filling and healthy choice for a midday meal. Its hearty composition means it holds up well for meal prepping throughout the week. It’s also a favorite for its wholesome ingredients and clean taste.
Comparison of Top Costco Salads
| Feature | Sweet Kale Kit | Chicken Street Tacos Kit | Mediterranean Crunch Kit | Chicken Caesar Salad | Grain & Celery Salad |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Kale, broccoli, cabbage, dried cranberries | Seasoned chicken, cheese, cabbage slaw, tortillas | Romaine, cauliflower, broccoli, feta | Romaine, rotisserie chicken, parmesan, croutons | Quinoa, chickpeas, bulgur, celery, kale, almonds |
| Protein Source | None (add your own) | Pre-cooked chicken | None (add your own) | Rotisserie chicken | Quinoa, chickpeas |
| Dressing | Poppyseed Vinaigrette | Cilantro Lime Crema, Salsa | White Shallot Balsamic Vinaigrette | Caesar Dressing | Apple Cider Vinaigrette |
| Convenience | Low prep | Low prep | Low prep | Ready-to-eat | Ready-to-eat |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet & earthy | Savory & zesty | Crisp & tangy | Creamy & savory | Hearty & wholesome |
| Price | Mid-range | High-range (sold by weight) | Mid-range | Mid-range (sold by weight) | Mid-range (sold by weight) |
Customizing Your Costco Salad Experience
To make your pre-made salad even better, consider these upgrades:
- Add extra protein: Boost the nutritional content by adding a can of tuna, some hard-boiled eggs, or leftover rotisserie chicken.
- Swap the dressing: The pre-packaged dressings are convenient, but you can always substitute your own lighter vinaigrette or a different flavor to mix things up.
- Enhance with fresh vegetables: For the kits, you can bulk up the greens or add fresh vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or onions.
- Toast the toppings: Give your seeds or nuts a quick toast in a dry pan to bring out their flavor and add an extra layer of texture.
- Serve it differently: Transform a kit into a power bowl by serving it over a base of cooked grains or enjoy it in a wrap for a change of pace.
For more product-specific information from one of Costco's suppliers, you can visit the Taylor Farms website here.
Conclusion: Finding Your Best Pre-Made Salad
Ultimately, the question of what is the best pre made salad at Costco has no single answer, as it depends on your individual preferences. For the balance of health and convenience, the Sweet Kale kit is a phenomenal choice. The Chicken Street Tacos kit and Chicken Caesar offer satisfying, protein-heavy meals for those less concerned with calories. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean Crunch and Grain & Celery salads provide fresh, wholesome alternatives. By considering factors like ingredients, nutritional content, and personal taste, you can easily find the perfect pre-made salad to fit your lifestyle and dietary needs on your next Costco trip.
What is the best pre made salad at Costco?
Best Overall for Taste & Health: The Taylor Farms Sweet Kale Salad Kit is often cited as the top choice for its nutritious ingredients and satisfying flavor, making it a favorite for many health-conscious shoppers.
Best for a Protein-Packed Meal: The Kirkland Signature Chicken Caesar Salad is an excellent option for those seeking a complete, high-protein meal, though it is higher in calories from the rich dressing.
Best Value for a Family: The Kirkland Signature Chicken Street Tacos Kit offers a large quantity of seasoned chicken and toppings, providing multiple meal servings at a great price point.
Best for Sophisticated Flavors: The Taylor Farms Mediterranean Crunch Chopped Salad Kit stands out with its unique and fresh blend of diverse vegetables and tangy dressing.
Best Plant-Based & Wholesome: The Kirkland Signature Grain & Celery Salad is the ideal choice for a filling, high-fiber, plant-based meal, praised for its wholesome ingredients and hearty texture.
