Frozen but Full of Life: Nutritionist-Approved Freezer Staples for Real Life

Let’s be honest: not every day looks like a fresh farmers market day. Some days you’re juggling work, school runs, hormones, sleep (or lack of), and dinner feels like just another thing on the list. That’s where your freezer quietly becomes one of the most supportive tools in your kitchen.

As a nutritionist, I often say this: health doesn’t have to be fancy. It needs to be nourishing, sustainable, and work with your lifestyle. And frozen food—when chosen well—can absolutely support that.

Here are some of my favourite nutrient-dense frozen buys from UK supermarkets to help you feel more energised, balanced, and prepared for the week ahead.

Why Frozen Can Be Just as Good (Sometimes Better)

• Frozen vegetables are often picked at peak ripeness and frozen within hours, helping to preserve nutrients.

• They can reduce food waste, save time, and make it easier to add variety to your meals.

• They’re also a win for budget-friendly nutrition, especially when fresh isn’t practical.

Chopped Leaf Spinach

Iron, magnesium, and folate – all essential for energy, hormone production, and mood regulation. Stir into soups, stews, or fold into scrambled eggs or lentils for a quick nutrient boost.

Mixed Peppers

Naturally high in vitamin C (especially red peppers), which supports iron absorption and skin health. Already sliced, so they’re ideal for throwing into quick meals like stir-fries, omelettes, or wraps.

Frozen Garlic & Herbs (in cubes or loose)

Fresh flavour without the prep – and garlic’s sulphur compounds support immune and detox pathways. Use these to build flavour in slow-cooked dishes, sauces or dressings.

Frozen Berries

Packed with antioxidants to support inflammation and skin health. Perfect in porridge, overnight oats, smoothies or warmed through with a little cinnamon for dessert.

Garden Peas

Small but mighty, peas are full of gentle plant protein, fibre, and a surprising amount of micronutrients like vitamin K, manganese, and B vitamins. They also contain compounds that may support blood sugar balance and digestive health.

Frozen Bone Broth (or Stock)

Often overlooked, but incredibly grounding and supportive—especially for gut health, joint care, and skin. Rich in collagen, amino acids (like glycine), and minerals that support the gut lining, immune system, and nervous system. Use as a cooking base for grains, soups, or simply sip in the afternoon for a comforting, nourishing pause. Look for: Borough Broth Co. (available at Ocado, Whole Foods, Planet Organic), or Daylesford frozen bone broth at Waitrose.

When life is busy (which is most of the time), having a freezer stocked with nourishing basics means you’re always a few minutes away from something wholesome. Whether you’re feeding a family, supporting your hormones, or just trying to stay well-fed between meetings—this is nutrition that meets you where you are.

And remember: it doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful.