15 Foods That Are Always Worth the Splurge at the Store

Some foods are worth every penny for the flavor and quality they bring to your table. Whether it’s an everyday staple or a special treat, investing in higher-quality ingredients can completely transform your cooking. The right splurges add depth, texture, and richness you simply can’t get from cheaper alternatives. These are the items that consistently deliver better results and elevate even the simplest meals. Sometimes, spending a little extra is the smartest choice you can make in the kitchen.

An elderly couple in a kitchen unloads groceries from paper bags. The man wears a red sweater, and the woman wears a yellow one. A bowl of fruit is on the counter, and the kitchen is modern with stainless steel appliances. Both are smiling. — Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

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High-quality olive oil isn’t just for drizzling—it’s the backbone of countless dishes. The best options have a fresh, fruity taste and add complexity to dressings, marinades, and dips. Look for cold-pressed oils with a harvest date for maximum flavor and health benefits.

Parmesan Cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano)

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Real Parmesan, aged and nutty, beats the pre-grated stuff every time. It adds depth to pasta, soups, and salads. Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano comes stamped with a seal of approval from Italy—proof you’re getting the good stuff.

Vanilla Extract

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Cheap vanilla often tastes artificial, but pure vanilla extract (made from real beans) elevates baked goods and desserts. A little goes a long way, so the investment pays off with richer, fuller flavors that stand out.

Maple Syrup

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Skip the pancake syrup and opt for pure maple syrup, which has a natural sweetness with caramel undertones. Perfect for drizzling, baking, or even savory dishes, this splurge guarantees flavor without additives or high-fructose corn syrup.

Butter

European-style butter, with higher fat content and richer flavor, makes baked goods flakier and sauces creamier. It’s especially noticeable in simple recipes like shortbread or when spread on fresh bread.

Seafood

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When it comes to fish and shellfish, quality matters. Fresh, sustainably sourced seafood has better texture and flavor, making it worth the higher price. Opt for wild-caught options for the best taste and environmental impact.

Steak

A well-marbled cut of steak, like ribeye or filet mignon, transforms a simple meal into a feast. Cheaper cuts can be tough and lack flavor, while premium steak offers tenderness and that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Chocolate

High-quality chocolate, with a high cocoa content and no fillers, makes desserts richer and snacks more indulgent. Look for brands with minimal ingredients and ethically sourced beans for the best taste and conscience.

Coffee

Good coffee beans, roasted fresh and ground to order, provide a flavor that’s miles ahead of supermarket brands. Investing in a quality roast ensures your morning brew is aromatic, smooth, and full of flavor.

Eggs

Pasture-raised eggs have richer yolks, better texture, and superior flavor compared to generic eggs. Whether you’re making an omelet or baking a cake, splurging on high-quality eggs makes a noticeable difference.

Honey

Raw, unfiltered honey retains its natural enzymes and floral flavors, unlike processed honey. It’s not only tastier but also more versatile, working as a sweetener, marinade, or even a glaze for roasted veggies.

Balsamic Vinegar

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Aged balsamic vinegar is syrupy, tangy-sweet, and worlds apart from the cheap stuff. Drizzle it over salads, fruits, or cheese for an instant flavor upgrade. Look for “Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale” for the real deal.

Bread

Artisan bread, baked fresh with high-quality ingredients, has better texture and flavor than pre-packaged loaves. Whether it’s sourdough, ciabatta, or focaccia, a good loaf can elevate any meal, from sandwiches to soups.

Ice Cream

Premium ice cream uses better ingredients, resulting in creamier textures and bolder flavors. Look for brands with minimal additives—real cream, fresh fruit, and pure vanilla make all the difference.

Pasta

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Bronze-cut, artisanal pasta holds sauce better and has a firmer, more satisfying texture than mass-produced options. The extra cost pays off in simple dishes where the pasta takes center stage.

10 Grocery Hacks to Beat Inflation And Save Big

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Feeling the pinch at the grocery store thanks to inflation? Prices are skyrocketing, but that doesn’t mean you have to bust your budget. Here are our best grocery hacks to help you beat inflation and save big on your next shopping trip. Get started and keep more money in your pocket!

Read it Here: 10 Grocery Hacks to Beat Inflation And Save Big

12 Superfoods That Are Overrated and Overpriced

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We’ve all heard the buzz about superfoods that are supposed to transform our health and make us feel invincible. But are they really worth the hype and the hefty price tag? Let’s cut through the noise and look at 12 superfoods that might not be as super as they seem. You might be surprised to find that there are cheaper, equally healthy alternatives out there!

Read it Here: 12 Superfoods That Are Overrated and Overpriced

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Gina Matsoukas

Founder and Writer at Running to the Kitchen | About

Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.