Aldi Finds October: Delicious & Easy Recipes Using This Month’s Hidden Gems
October at Aldi is more than just pumpkins and Halloween candy; it’s a treasure trove of unique and affordable ingredients just waiting to be transformed into delicious meals. Aldi Finds, those limited-time items that pop up every Wednesday, can be surprisingly versatile. This month, we’re diving deep into October’s Aldi Finds and crafting easy, flavorful recipes that will have you saying, “Wow, I got all this at Aldi!”
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s talk strategy. Successfully navigating Aldi Finds requires a little planning. First, check your local Aldi ad online or pick one up in-store. This will give you a preview of the upcoming Wednesday Finds. Make a list of the items that pique your interest, keeping in mind the recipes we’ll be discussing. Arrive early on Wednesday, as popular items can sell out quickly. And most importantly, be open to experimentation! Aldi Finds are all about discovering new ingredients and flavors.
Now, let’s get cooking! We’ll cover a range of recipes from appetizers and sides to main courses and even a dessert, all featuring key ingredients from October’s Aldi Finds.
## Recipe 1: Pumpkin Spice Risotto with Sausage & Crispy Sage
Pumpkin spice isn’t just for lattes! This creamy risotto combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with savory sausage and herbaceous sage for a truly autumnal dish. Look for Aldi’s pumpkin puree, Italian sausage (sweet or mild), and fresh sage in the produce section (sometimes an Aldi Find!).
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
* 1/2 cup dry white wine
* 4-5 cups chicken broth, warmed
* 1 cup pumpkin puree
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tbsp butter
* 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
* 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
* 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying sage)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sausage:** Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Toast the Rice:** Add the Arborio rice to the pot and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps to develop the rice’s nutty flavor.
4. **Deglaze with Wine:** Pour in the white wine and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook until the wine is almost completely absorbed.
5. **Add Broth Gradually:** Begin adding the warmed chicken broth, 1 cup at a time. Stir frequently until the broth is absorbed before adding the next cup. Continue this process for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente. The risotto should have a slightly loose consistency.
6. **Stir in Pumpkin and Cheese:** Stir in the pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, butter, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and pepper. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. **Fry the Sage:** While the risotto is cooking, prepare the crispy sage. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes, until crispy but not burnt. Remove the sage leaves with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
8. **Serve:** Serve the pumpkin spice risotto hot, topped with crispy sage leaves.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Pumpkin puree, Italian Sausage, Fresh Sage (often a limited-time seasonal item).
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms to the pot along with the onions.
* Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan version. You may need to adjust the seasoning.
* Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for an even richer risotto.
* Top with toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
## Recipe 2: Caramelized Onion and Fig Tart with Goat Cheese
This elegant tart is perfect as an appetizer or light lunch. The sweetness of caramelized onions and figs pairs beautifully with the tang of goat cheese. Aldi often carries fig jam (an Aldi Find!), puff pastry, and goat cheese – all essential for this recipe.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 2 large onions, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
* 1/4 cup fig jam (or chopped fresh figs)
* 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
* Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Caramelize the Onions:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes, or until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. This process takes time, so be patient and don’t rush it. Stir in the balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
2. **Prepare the Puff Pastry:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it out to a 12×12 inch square. Transfer the puff pastry to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. **Assemble the Tart:** Spread the fig jam evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with the caramelized onions and crumbled goat cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Bake the Tart:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the goat cheese is melted and slightly browned.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Let the tart cool slightly before garnishing with fresh thyme leaves and serving.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Fig Jam, Puff Pastry, Goat Cheese.
**Tips and Variations:**
* If you can’t find fig jam, use chopped fresh figs instead. You may need to add a touch of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
* Substitute gorgonzola cheese for goat cheese for a bolder flavor.
* Add a sprinkle of walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
* For a vegetarian main course, serve the tart with a side salad.
## Recipe 3: Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Spice up your Taco Tuesday with these flavorful shrimp tacos featuring a refreshing mango salsa. Aldi often has frozen shrimp, taco shells, and mangoes, making this recipe a budget-friendly winner. Look for cilantro and red onion in the produce section.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tsp chili powder
* 1/2 tsp cumin
* 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 ripe mango, diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1 tbsp lime juice
* 12 taco shells
* Shredded lettuce, for serving
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Shrimp:** Thaw the frozen shrimp according to package directions. Pat them dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. **Cook the Shrimp:** Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.
3. **Make the Mango Salsa:** In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
4. **Assemble the Tacos:** Warm the taco shells according to package directions. Fill each taco shell with shredded lettuce, cooked shrimp, and mango salsa. Top with sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired.
5. **Serve:** Serve the spicy shrimp tacos immediately.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Frozen Shrimp, Taco Shells, Mangoes.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use pre-cooked shrimp for an even quicker meal.
* Add a squeeze of sriracha to the shrimp for extra heat.
* Substitute pineapple for mango in the salsa.
* Top with avocado slices for added creaminess.
* Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
## Recipe 4: Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
Even Brussels sprouts skeptics will love this recipe! Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while bacon adds smoky flavor and balsamic glaze provides a tangy finish. Aldi often carries bacon, Brussels sprouts, and balsamic glaze – perfect for this easy side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
* 4 slices bacon, chopped
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the sprouts are evenly coated.
2. **Cook the Bacon:** In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve the bacon grease in the skillet.
3. **Roast the Brussels Sprouts:** Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Toss to coat. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned.
4. **Glaze and Serve:** Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving bowl. Toss with the crispy bacon and balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Balsamic Glaze.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
* Substitute pancetta for bacon.
* Roast the Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
* Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
## Recipe 5: Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Topping
This classic dessert is the perfect way to celebrate the apple season. Aldi often carries a variety of apples, rolled oats, and butter – all the essentials for a comforting apple crisp.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 apples (such as Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 1 tsp cinnamon
* 1/4 tsp nutmeg
* 1 tbsp lemon juice
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Apple Filling:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, 2 tbsp flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
2. **Make the Oatmeal Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, 1/2 cup flour, and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Assemble the Crisp:** Pour the apple filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the oatmeal topping evenly over the apple filling.
4. **Bake the Crisp:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.
5. **Serve:** Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
**Aldi Finds Spotlight:** Apples, Rolled Oats, Butter.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a mix of different apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
* Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping.
* Substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar in the apple filling.
* Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the apple filling for an extra kick.
## Navigating the Aldi Finds Aisle: Pro Tips
* **Check the Aldi Ad Regularly:** The weekly Aldi ad is your best friend. It previews upcoming Aldi Finds, allowing you to plan your shopping trip.
* **Go Early:** Wednesdays are the day new Aldi Finds hit the shelves. Arrive early to snag the most popular items before they sell out.
* **Be Open to Substitution:** Sometimes an Aldi Find might be similar to what you need but not exactly. Be flexible and willing to substitute ingredients. It’s part of the fun!
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things:** Aldi Finds are all about discovery. Embrace the opportunity to experiment with new flavors and ingredients.
* **Read Reviews (If Available):** Before buying an unfamiliar Aldi Find, check online for reviews from other shoppers. This can help you avoid duds.
* **Consider the Shelf Life:** Since Aldi Finds are often limited-time items, pay attention to the expiration dates, especially on perishable goods.
* **Think Beyond the Recipe:** Even if an Aldi Find doesn’t perfectly fit a specific recipe, consider how else you might use it. That jar of pesto might be great on sandwiches or mixed into pasta.
## Beyond the Recipes: Other October Aldi Finds to Watch For
While our recipes highlight some key ingredients, keep an eye out for these other potential Aldi Finds in October:
* **Seasonal Cheeses:** Aldi often features unique cheeses around the holidays. Look for pumpkin spice cheese, cranberry cheddar, or other festive varieties.
* **Gourmet Crackers:** Pair those cheeses with some artisanal crackers. Aldi often has a selection of gourmet crackers in various flavors and textures.
* **European Cookies and Chocolates:** With the holidays approaching, Aldi stocks a wider variety of imported cookies and chocolates, perfect for snacking or gifting.
* **Specialty Spices and Seasonings:** Aldi often offers limited-edition spices and seasonings that can add a unique twist to your cooking.
* **Advent Calendars:** Start your holiday countdown early with an Aldi Advent calendar. They offer a variety of options, from chocolate to cheese to wine.
## Conclusion
Aldi Finds in October offer a fantastic opportunity to get creative in the kitchen without breaking the bank. By planning ahead, being open to experimentation, and utilizing these recipes as inspiration, you can create delicious and memorable meals using Aldi’s hidden gems. So grab your shopping list, head to Aldi on Wednesday, and get ready to discover your new favorite fall flavors!