Aldi Finds April: Delicious & Easy Recipes You Need to Try!
April at Aldi is a treasure trove of unique and affordable ingredients just begging to be transformed into delicious meals. From seasonal produce to exciting international flavors, Aldi’s “Aldi Finds” aisle offers endless culinary possibilities. This month, we’re diving deep into April’s Aldi Finds to bring you easy-to-follow recipes that will impress your family and friends without breaking the bank. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and discover some new family favorites!
Understanding Aldi Finds
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s quickly recap what Aldi Finds are. Aldi Finds are limited-time, special items that arrive in Aldi stores every week. These items can range from gourmet cheeses and unique snacks to kitchen gadgets and seasonal décor. The key thing to remember is that Aldi Finds are only available while supplies last, so if you see something you like, grab it! They are often themed around a particular holiday, season, or cultural celebration, offering a diverse selection of ingredients you might not typically find at your local supermarket.
Essential Aldi Finds for April Recipes
While the exact Aldi Finds vary by location and week, there are usually some consistent themes you can expect to see in April. Look out for these items to help you create the following recipes:
* **Seasonal Produce:** Asparagus, radishes, spring onions, strawberries, rhubarb, and other springtime vegetables and fruits are often featured prominently. Take advantage of their freshness and affordability.
* **International Flavors:** Keep an eye out for pasta sauces, cheeses, spices, and snacks from different countries. These are great for adding a global twist to your dishes.
* **Specialty Meats and Cheeses:** Aldi often stocks unique cuts of meat and artisan cheeses as part of their Aldi Finds program. These can elevate a simple meal to something truly special.
* **Baking Supplies:** With Easter often falling in April, you can usually find baking mixes, decorations, and other supplies for creating festive treats.
* **Grilling Essentials:** As the weather warms up, Aldi often offers grilling sauces, marinades, and even grilling accessories as Aldi Finds.
Recipe 1: Creamy Asparagus and Pea Pasta with Lemon
This vibrant pasta dish is perfect for a light spring dinner. It highlights the fresh flavors of asparagus and peas, complemented by a creamy sauce and a bright lemon zest.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound pasta (penne, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 shallot, minced
* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Zest and juice of 1 lemon
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Aldi Find Italian sausage, cooked and sliced
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Cook the Asparagus:** Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. If using sausage, add it to the skillet during the last few minutes to warm through.
4. **Add the Peas and Cream:** Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce slightly thickens.
5. **Combine and Finish:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
6. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, if desired.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Look for fresh asparagus in the produce section and consider adding a gourmet cheese from the Aldi Finds aisle to the dish. Aldi’s Italian sausage, often available as a special buy, would also be a delicious addition.
Recipe 2: Rhubarb Crumble Bars
Rhubarb is a quintessential spring ingredient, and these crumble bars are a delicious way to showcase its tart flavor. The sweet crumble topping provides a perfect contrast to the tangy rhubarb filling.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Crust:**
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* **For the Filling:**
* 4 cups chopped rhubarb
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* **For the Crumble Topping:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. **Make the Crust:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. **Bake the Crust:** Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. **Prepare the Filling:** While the crust is baking, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Toss to coat.
5. **Make the Crumble Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and rolled oats. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. **Assemble and Bake:** Pour the rhubarb filling over the baked crust. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the filling.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8. **Cool and Cut:** Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Check for rhubarb in the fresh produce section. Aldi often carries baking essentials, including flour, sugar, and butter, at incredibly affordable prices.
Recipe 3: Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Feta and Olives
This healthy and flavorful salad is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
* 2 cups water
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cucumber, diced
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
* 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* **For the Dressing:**
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Quinoa:** Combine the quinoa, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** While the quinoa is cooking, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper. Halve the Kalamata olives. Chop the fresh parsley.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cucumber, red bell pepper, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Aldi often has Greek or Mediterranean-themed Aldi Finds that include Kalamata olives, feta cheese (sometimes in flavored varieties), and olive oil. Look for these items to create an authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Recipe 4: Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
These sheet pan chicken fajitas are a quick and easy weeknight meal. Simply toss the chicken and vegetables with fajita seasoning, roast on a sheet pan, and serve with your favorite toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning (Aldi Find if available!)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Tortillas, for serving
* Toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, etc.
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:** In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips, sliced bell peppers, and sliced onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat everything evenly.
3. **Roast:** Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. **Serve:** Serve the chicken and vegetables in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Keep an eye out for Aldi’s fajita seasoning, often available as an Aldi Find. They also have a wide variety of tortillas and toppings, including sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
Recipe 5: Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
This refreshing salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The strawberries add a touch of sweetness, while the spinach provides a healthy dose of greens. The poppy seed dressing ties it all together.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 ounces fresh spinach
* 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup candied pecans (optional)
* **For the Poppy Seed Dressing:**
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper.
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, and candied pecans (if using).
3. **Dress and Serve:** Pour the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Look for fresh spinach and strawberries in the produce section. Aldi often carries candied pecans or other nuts that would be a great addition to this salad. They frequently offer different types of salad dressings, and you might find a poppy seed dressing in their Aldi Finds section.
Recipe 6: Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
A classic dish elevated with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, this roast chicken is surprisingly simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
* 1 lemon, quartered
* 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
* 2 sprigs fresh thyme
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Remove giblets from the chicken cavity. Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat dry with paper towels.
3. **Season the Chicken:** In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, inside and out.
4. **Stuff the Cavity:** Place the lemon quarters, rosemary sprigs, and thyme sprigs inside the chicken cavity.
5. **Roast the Chicken:** Place the chicken in a roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). If the skin starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
6. **Rest and Carve:** Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Aldi often has whole chickens at competitive prices. They frequently carry fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, especially during the spring season. Keep an eye out for their selection of olive oils, as they often have special varieties as Aldi Finds.
Recipe 7: Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
These Caprese skewers are a simple and elegant appetizer or snack. They’re easy to assemble and packed with fresh flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes
* 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (small, bocconcini size)
* Fresh basil leaves
* Balsamic glaze (Aldi Find if available!)
* Wooden skewers
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble the Skewers:** Thread a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a fresh basil leaf onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
2. **Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:** Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
3. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Aldi often carries fresh mozzarella balls, especially during the summer months. They frequently have balsamic glaze as an Aldi Find, sometimes in flavored varieties. Look for cherry tomatoes in their produce section.
Tips for Shopping Aldi Finds
* **Check the Aldi ad:** The weekly Aldi ad lists the upcoming Aldi Finds. This is a great way to plan your shopping trip and see what’s new.
* **Shop early:** Aldi Finds are only available while supplies last, so it’s best to shop early in the week to ensure you get the items you want.
* **Be adventurous:** Don’t be afraid to try new things! Aldi Finds are a great way to discover new flavors and ingredients.
* **Read reviews:** Before buying an Aldi Find, check online reviews to see what other customers think of the product.
* **Follow Aldi fan accounts:** There are many Aldi fan accounts on social media that share information about Aldi Finds and offer recipe ideas.
Why Aldi Finds are Perfect for Home Cooking
Aldi Finds offer a unique opportunity to experiment in the kitchen without overspending. They introduce exciting ingredients and flavor combinations that can elevate everyday meals. Plus, the limited availability encourages creativity and resourcefulness. By incorporating Aldi Finds into your cooking, you can discover new family favorites and impress your guests with unique and delicious dishes.
Beyond the Recipes: Get Creative!
These recipes are just a starting point. Don’t be afraid to get creative and adapt them to your own tastes and preferences. Substitute ingredients based on what you find in the Aldi Finds aisle, and experiment with different flavor combinations. The possibilities are endless!
April’s Aldi Finds are a fantastic way to embrace the flavors of spring and add some excitement to your meals. So, head to your local Aldi, explore the Aldi Finds aisle, and get ready to create some delicious memories in the kitchen!
Share Your Creations!
We’d love to see what you’re cooking up with your Aldi Finds! Share your photos and recipes on social media using the hashtag #AldiFindsRecipes. Happy cooking!