Aldi Freezer Finds: Delicious & Easy Recipes for August!
August is a busy month! Back-to-school season is in full swing, summer vacations are winding down, and everyone is trying to squeeze in those last-minute outdoor adventures. Between packing lunches, attending school events, and managing hectic schedules, finding time to cook a healthy and satisfying meal can feel nearly impossible. That’s where Aldi’s amazing freezer section comes to the rescue! Aldi offers a fantastic range of affordable and convenient frozen foods that can be transformed into delicious and easy meals in minutes. This August, we’re diving deep into Aldi’s freezer aisle to uncover the best finds and share some mouthwatering recipes that will simplify your dinner routine and save you time and money.
## Why Aldi’s Freezer Section is a Game-Changer
Before we jump into the recipes, let’s talk about why Aldi’s freezer section is such a lifesaver. Aldi is known for its high-quality products at incredibly low prices. This applies to their frozen foods as well. You can find everything from frozen fruits and vegetables to meats, seafood, prepared meals, and even desserts, all at prices that won’t break the bank.
* **Affordability:** Aldi’s prices are consistently lower than those of traditional grocery stores, allowing you to stretch your food budget further.
* **Convenience:** Frozen foods are pre-prepped and ready to cook, saving you valuable time and effort in the kitchen.
* **Long Shelf Life:** Frozen foods have a much longer shelf life than fresh produce, reducing food waste and ensuring you always have ingredients on hand.
* **Nutritional Value:** Freezing preserves the nutrients in fruits and vegetables, so you can enjoy healthy meals even when fresh produce is out of season.
* **Variety:** Aldi’s freezer section offers a wide variety of options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
## Essential Aldi Freezer Finds for August
Here’s a list of some must-have Aldi freezer staples to stock up on this August:
* **Frozen Chicken Breasts:** A versatile protein source that can be used in countless recipes. Look for the individually wrapped chicken breasts for easy portioning.
* **Frozen Ground Beef:** Perfect for quick and easy burgers, tacos, chili, and pasta sauces.
* **Frozen Salmon Fillets:** A healthy and delicious option for a quick weeknight dinner. Aldi’s salmon fillets are often wild-caught and sustainably sourced.
* **Frozen Shrimp:** A versatile and affordable seafood option that can be used in stir-fries, pasta dishes, and appetizers.
* **Frozen Vegetables (Broccoli, Peas, Corn, Green Beans, Spinach, Mixed Vegetables):** A convenient way to add nutrients to your meals. Aldi’s frozen vegetables are often flash-frozen to preserve their quality and flavor.
* **Frozen Fruits (Berries, Mango, Pineapple):** Perfect for smoothies, desserts, and adding to yogurt or oatmeal.
* **Frozen Potatoes (French Fries, Tater Tots, Hash Browns):** A kid-friendly favorite that can be served as a side dish or used in creative recipes.
* **Frozen Pizza:** A classic freezer staple for busy weeknights. Aldi’s Mama Cozzi’s pizzas are a popular choice.
* **Frozen Appetizers (Mozzarella Sticks, Chicken Wings, Spring Rolls):** Great for parties or quick snacks.
* **Frozen Desserts (Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, Sorbet):** A sweet treat to end your meal.
## Delicious Aldi Freezer Recipes for August
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – the recipes! These recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and delicious, using primarily Aldi freezer finds. Feel free to adapt them to your own tastes and preferences.
### 1. One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is a weeknight winner! It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is packed with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs Aldi Frozen Chicken Breasts
* 1 bag Aldi Frozen Broccoli Florets
* 1 bag Aldi Frozen Mixed Vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
* 1 Lemon, sliced
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 tsp Dried Italian Herbs
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, toss the frozen chicken breasts, broccoli florets, and mixed vegetables with olive oil, lemon slices, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* You can use any combination of frozen vegetables you like.
* Add a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
* Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
* If you have more time, you can marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before baking.
### 2. Quick & Easy Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles
This light and flavorful dish is perfect for a healthy and satisfying weeknight meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Aldi Frozen Shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup Dry White Wine (optional)
* 1/4 cup Chicken Broth
* 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
* 2 tbsp Butter
* 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 2 medium Zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (or use pre-made zucchini noodles)
**Instructions:**
1. If using frozen zucchini noodles, thaw them slightly and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the frozen shrimp and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
5. If using, add white wine and cook for 1 minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
6. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Stir in the zucchini noodles and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* You can substitute the zucchini noodles with spaghetti or linguine.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.
* For a richer flavor, use half butter and half olive oil.
### 3. Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Crema
These veggie burgers are packed with flavor and are a great alternative to traditional meat burgers.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag Aldi Frozen Black Beans, thawed and drained
* 1/2 cup Aldi Frozen Corn, thawed
* 1/2 cup Cooked Brown Rice (can use pre-cooked frozen rice)
* 1/4 cup Chopped Red Onion
* 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro
* 1 tbsp Chili Powder
* 1 tsp Cumin
* 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
**Avocado Crema:**
* 1 Avocado, ripe
* 1/4 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
* 2 tbsp Lime Juice
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher.
2. Add the thawed corn, cooked brown rice, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Stir in the breadcrumbs until the mixture is firm enough to form patties.
5. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
8. While the patties are cooking, prepare the avocado crema. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a fork.
9. Add the sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
10. Serve the black bean burgers on buns with your favorite toppings and a dollop of avocado crema.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a can of diced tomatoes (drained) to the burger mixture for extra flavor and moisture.
* Use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans.
* Top with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite burger toppings.
* For a spicier burger, add a chopped jalapeno pepper to the mixture.
### 4. Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly August evening. The grilled cheese croutons add a fun and delicious twist.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tbsp Olive Oil
* 1 Onion, chopped
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 (28 oz) can Crushed Tomatoes
* 1 (15 oz) can Tomato Sauce
* 4 cups Chicken Broth
* 1 tsp Dried Basil
* 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (optional)
**Grilled Cheese Croutons:**
* 4 slices Bread
* 2 slices Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
* 2 tbsp Butter
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
6. While the soup is simmering, prepare the grilled cheese croutons. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
7. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
8. Top each slice with a slice of cheese and then with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
9. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into small cubes.
11. If desired, stir in heavy cream to the soup for a richer flavor.
12. Serve the soup hot, topped with grilled cheese croutons.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
* Use different types of cheese for the grilled cheese croutons.
### 5. Salmon Patties with Lemon Dill Sauce
These salmon patties are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy Aldi’s frozen salmon fillets.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Aldi Frozen Salmon Fillets, thawed
* 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup Chopped Red Onion
* 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Dill
* 1 Egg, beaten
* 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
**Lemon Dill Sauce:**
* 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
* 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
* 1 tbsp Chopped Fresh Dill
* 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Remove the skin from the thawed salmon fillets and chop the salmon into small pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, chopped fresh dill, beaten egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. While the patties are cooking, prepare the lemon dill sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
8. Mix well to combine.
9. Serve the salmon patties with a dollop of lemon dill sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the salmon patty mixture for extra flavor.
* Use different types of herbs, such as parsley or chives.
* Serve the salmon patties on buns with your favorite toppings.
* For a healthier option, bake the salmon patties instead of frying them.
### 6. Berry Smoothie
A perfect way to start the day, this smoothie is packed with vitamins and antioxidants from Aldi’s frozen berries.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Aldi Frozen Mixed Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
* 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
* 1/2 cup Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1 tbsp Honey (optional, for added sweetness)
* 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth. Add more milk if the smoothie is too thick.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost.
* Use different types of frozen fruit, such as mango or pineapple.
* Add a handful of spinach or kale for added nutrients.
* For a thicker smoothie, use frozen yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
### 7. Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
A comforting and family-friendly dish using Aldi’s frozen tater tots.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Aldi Frozen Ground Beef
* 1 Onion, chopped
* 1 (10.75 oz) can Cream of Mushroom Soup
* 1/2 cup Milk
* 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
* 1 bag Aldi Frozen Tater Tots
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine the browned ground beef, cooked onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meat mixture.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add vegetables such as corn or peas to the meat mixture.
* Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
* Top with crumbled bacon for added flavor.
* Add a layer of sour cream on top of the meat mixture before adding the tater tots.
## More Tips for Shopping Aldi’s Freezer Section
* **Plan ahead:** Before heading to Aldi, make a list of the recipes you want to make and the ingredients you’ll need. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
* **Check the prices:** Aldi’s prices can fluctuate, so it’s always a good idea to check the prices before you buy.
* **Read the labels:** Pay attention to the ingredient lists and nutritional information to make sure the products meet your dietary needs.
* **Stock up on staples:** Buy extra of your favorite Aldi freezer finds so you always have them on hand.
* **Get creative:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and combinations of ingredients. The possibilities are endless!
## Conclusion
Aldi’s freezer section is a treasure trove of affordable and convenient ingredients that can help you create delicious and easy meals for your family, especially during the hectic month of August. By stocking up on essential freezer staples and trying out some of the recipes we’ve shared, you can save time and money while still enjoying healthy and satisfying meals. So, head to Aldi this August and discover the freezer finds that will revolutionize your dinner routine! Happy cooking!