Best Heart-Healthy Frozen Products

Warm up to frozen foods! Stock your freezer with these heart-smart staples that are just as nutritious as fresh and so handy they'll help you eat a heart-healthy diet year-round.

Marsha McCulloch, M.S., R.D., L.D.

Stock your freezer with heart-healthy power foods that keep longer than their fresh varieties. These frozen picks are just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts and are often cheaper and simpler to store. We've recommended foods in a number of categories, including frozen fruits and vegetables, grains, and proteins.

More frozen tips:

• Buy fresh chicken, then freeze: Chicken sold in the freezer section typically has added salt.
• Whole grains keep longer in the freezer: Store whole wheat flour, oats, and flaxseed in the freezer if you have the space.
• Thaw foods safely: Thaw meats and seafood in the refrigerator, not on the counter. Read package directions to ensure the safety of your foods.
• Freeze your own veggies: If you have extra in-season veggies you want to save, blanch them first (immerse in boiling water for 1 to 3 minutes), then drain well and store in airtight plastic bags.