5 Healthy Pantry Items I Always Buy at Dollar Tree, According to a Food Writer

I'm the principal target for good marketing and aesthetics—the allure of carefully designed packaging, well-curated shelves and beautiful branding always pulls me in. There's something extra satisfying about a product that serves a purpose and looks great on your countertop. But while the allure of a fun, boutique vibe is hard to resist, I'm probably more of a sucker for a good deal. As someone who writes about food, groceries and lifestyle products, I've learned that some of the best finds can pop up in the least stuffy of places.

Take the Dollar Tree, for example. It isn't known for its aesthetic appeal or flashy displays. But it has a surprising number of hidden gems that have made me rethink my usual shopping habits. From basic pantry staples to gourmet, organic treasures and unique ingredients, the Dollar Tree's shelves are full of practical, budget-friendly finds that pack way more value than you'd expect. And unless it's explicitly specified with a loud, colorful price tag or in a designated aisle, everything in the store is $1.25. With food prices at an all-time high, why wouldn't I take advantage of that? Over the last six months, I've made countless trips to the Dollar Tree and tested a variety of products so you don't have to. Here are some of my favorite healthy pantry finds that you can score at Dollar Tree.

1. Freeze-Dried Fruit

This is the find that started it all—and having discovered these So Natural Freeze Dried Strawberries still makes me giddy! I was in the Dollar Tree looking for party decorations when I came across packages of freeze-dried fruit. If you've ever purchased a bag of freeze-dried strawberries or mangoes at a typical grocery store, you know they can cost $5 (or more) for a tiny portion. For just five quarters, a 0.6-ounce package of flavor-packed, snackable fruit delivers the same fiber and antioxidants as its pricier counterparts, making it an incredible find. The strawberries are my favorite—I love adding the pieces to oatmeal, Homemade Trail Mix and my favorite granola. I also grind them into a powder to flavor frosting and yogurt. Their sweet, bright flavor comes in the most delightfully crisp, airy bite—they feel like a real treat. Forget about gummies; my kiddos feel like they've hit the jackpot when these are on offer. 

2. Goya Canned Beans and Chickpeas

Finding Goya products at Dollar Tree felt like striking gold. Goya Chick Peas aren't generic beans—they're the same premium Goya products you'd find at any grocery store, but at a lower price. I'm never without beans and chickpeas in my pantry, and the Goya quality is better than most brands I've tried. Their texture resembles a slowly simmered pot of homemade beans, but they come in a convenient, time-saving can. And because convenience reigns supreme in this phase of my life, I always keep them stocked. They're a no-brainer addition to salads, and they add a healthy dose of fiber and protein to curries, hearty stews and warming pots of soup. I even use the aquafaba (the liquid from the chickpea cans) for vegan baking projects. These little cans pack a punch when it comes to versatility and nutrition, making it so much easier to whip up a healthy meal in minutes. I'm honestly not sure what my pantry or dinner options would look like without them!

3. Microwaveable Brown Rice Packs 

Remember when these convenient rice packets were considered a splurge? I certainly do, because I used to rationalize paying $4 per pack for the sake of convenience. Now, I keep a stash of these Eat Regal Ready to Eat Brown Rice with Quinoa pouches. These are whole-grain heroes in my pantry for those nights when I can't wait 45 minutes for brown rice to cook. They're perfectly portioned, ready in 90 seconds and are just as nutritious as traditionally cooked brown rice. We cook a lot of rice in our house, but what sells me on these packs is how little time it takes to get them from cupboard to bowl. On busy nights, I can make a pseudo-Emily Mariko-style bowl (No. 10 on this list) with fresh or canned salmon, avocado, shredded carrot, diced cucumber and seaweed snacks in about the time it takes to heat the pack of rice. My kids also love it mixed with scrambled eggs, cheese and herbs. Making rice is easy, but sometimes, the time savings is what matters most. These rice packs have changed the game for our busiest nights, giving us a quick, nutritious base for endless meal ideas. 

4. Bumble Bee Tuna Pouches

I almost did a double-take when I first spotted Bumble Bee Spicy Thai Chili Tuna at Dollar Tree. At $1.25 each, these protein-packed pouches are about half the price I was paying elsewhere. With 16 grams of protein per serving, they've become indispensable for quick lunch salads, easy additions to grain bowls and pasta or even a post-workout snack. I especially love that they don't require a can opener and are perfectly portioned for one meal. I always keep at least six pouches in my pantry, and they've saved me from countless takeout temptations. My favorite way to use them? I mix a pouch with half an avocado, a squeeze of lemon and some arugula and cherry tomatoes for an instant no-cook lunch that feels fancy but takes just minutes to prepare. And with the variety of flavors available—lemon pepper, jalapeño, spicy Thai chili, Mediterranean herbs and spices—I never get bored. Versatile and delicious, they make eating well on a budget feel effortless.

5. Dried Lentils

Let's talk about Brown's Best Dried Lentils, which are somehow less expensive than Walmart's. These protein-packed pulses are probably the best value in the entire store. One bag makes multiple meals, and they're loaded with fiber and plant-based protein. What I love most about lentils is their chameleon-like ability to take on whatever flavors you pair them with. I regularly cook a big batch on Sunday and use them throughout the week, tossing them with vinaigrette for lunch salads, stirring them into marinara or Bolognese for some added nutrients, or pureeing them into a creamy dip or soup. Pro tip: The brown lentils hold their shape somewhat, so they're better for salads, soups and mixed-grain dishes like koshari, while the red ones are perfect for creamy soups and dals. Lentils are a reliable staple that deliver on both nutrition and value, making it easy to cook delicious, wholesome meals without breaking the bank. And at this price point, you can even afford to experiment with new recipes.

The Bottom Line

Dollar Tree has evolved far beyond what you might remember from years past. These five staples prove you don't have to compromise nutrition for savings—and they're often the same trusted brands and quality products you'll find elsewhere, just at significantly lower prices. Whether you're trying to stretch your grocery budget or just love a good deal (who doesn't?), these healthy pantry finds are worth a trip to your local Dollar Tree. Just remember to check expiration dates, and don't be shy about stocking up when you find your favorites. But please don't clear out all the tuna pouches before I get there!