Sunbasket Meal Kit Review: A Nutritionist Weighs In

"Healthy" doesn’t always mean delicious, and convenience can sometimes compromise quality. But Sunbasket wants to flip that script. With organic produce, clean-label ingredients and recipes tailored to real dietary needs, such as Mediterranean, Carb-Conscious and Gluten-Free, this meal kit claims to make weeknight dinners both nourishing and crave-worthy.

So, does it actually deliver on flavor and function? To find out, I tested several Sunbasket meals and compared the experience to over 50 meal delivery services evaluated by the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab. From the first unboxing to the final bite, I examined everything: taste, nutrition, ingredient quality and ease of use.

This review combines expert analysis with hands-on testing to help you determine if Sunbasket is just another attractive option or a genuine solution for stress-free, healthy eating. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth adding to your dinner rotation, keep reading. I’ve got you covered.

Sunbasket Meal Kit Delivery Service

Shop at sunbasket.com

Pros

• Fresh, high-quality ingredients
• Customizable to dietary needs
• Quick and simple prep
• Unique and delicious flavors
• Family-friendly options available
• Nutritionally-balanced dishes

Cons

• Higher price than competitors
• Some meals high sodium

Sunbasket is a health-focused meal delivery service that blends convenience with wholesome, high-quality ingredients. Designed to support a variety of lifestyles and dietary needs, Sunbasket offers both meal kits and ready-to-heat options that are crafted by chefs and approved by dietitians. Each meal features organic produce, sustainably raised proteins and nutrient-dense components tailored to preferences like Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free and Carb-Conscious.

With a commitment to both taste and sustainability, Sunbasket's meals arrive in eco-friendly packaging and are ready in as little as five to 30 minutes, helping you skip the grocery store and streamline your dinner routine.

Beyond the plate, Sunbasket is also a certified organic handler and gives back by donating over 1,000 pounds of food weekly to local food banks and hunger relief organizations.

Sunbasket operates as a subscription service, offering weekly deliveries. Each week, you’ll browse a curated menu featuring chef-crafted recipes made with organic produce and sustainably sourced proteins. Whether you're in the mood to cook or want something fast, you can choose between traditional Meal Kits or Fresh & Ready meals that go from fridge to table in minutes.

You can stick with a suggested meal plan, such as Paleo, Vegetarian or Carb-Conscious, or build your own lineup from the full menu. The service is flexible, requiring a minimum of just four servings per week. It's ideal for solo eaters, couples and families alike.

Deliveries arrive weekly on the day you select, typically between Sunday and Thursday, depending on your zip code and Sunbasket’s routing schedule. Meals are packed to stay fresh until you’re ready to unpack. Going out of town or need a break? Skipping a week or canceling is easy; just update your account before the Wednesday cutoff at noon PT. You can also swap out pre-selected meals before your order deadline. Sunbasket currently ships to most of the U.S., and if anything's off with your box, their team is quick to make it right.

Sunbasket's meals start at $9.99 per serving, with pricing varying based on your plan and the number of servings you select. A typical order of three Meal Kits for two people (six servings total) costs around $87.94, plus a $10.99 shipping fee and applicable taxes. Larger plans, such as three Meal Kits for four people (12 servings total), can range from $137 to $240 per box.

First-time customers often receive generous discounts. For example, with a new customer promo, an order that typically costs $87.94 may be reduced to $47.94, including free shipping. The brand regularly offers promotional pricing, so it’s worth checking the site for current deals.

Ordering and meal selection

Sunbasket offers two main meal formats: traditional Meal Kits that serve two or four people, and Fresh & Ready meals, designed for one, which are fully prepared and ready to heat in just a few minutes. Both options use organic produce, wild-caught or sustainably sourced seafood, and responsibly raised meats that are free of antibiotics and hormones. Meals are developed by Sunbasket’s team of award-winning chefs and cater to a variety of dietary needs, making healthy eating accessible and flavorful.

The website is bright and inviting, with beautiful, colorful photos of each meal that make browsing a real pleasure. Plus, the helpful filters by dietary preference and meal type allowed me to narrow the options. One tester shared, “I really enjoyed that you could select or customize your proteins for this meal kit. My family does low-carb a few days a week, and this kit was customizable for our specific dietary needs. This distinguishes it from other meal kits that we have considered and purchased in the past.”

Sunbasket caters to a wide range of dietary preferences with thoughtfully crafted meal plans designed to fit diverse lifestyles. Whether you prefer the chef-curated Chef’s Choice meals featuring seasonal organic produce and top-quality proteins, or specialized plans like Paleo (high-protein, low-carb with no dairy or grains), there’s a plan for you. Other options include Gluten-Free Friendly (prepared in a facility that handles wheat), Lean & Clean (calorie-conscious, high in protein and fiber), Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Mediterranean (balanced meals with healthy fats and grains), Diabetes-Friendly and Carb-Conscious (with 35 grams or fewer net carbs).

For my order, I chose the Mediterranean plan, which highlights seasonal produce, lean meats and healthy fats. I selected three Meal Kits:

• Spicy Barbacoa Chicken Sliders with Cabbage-Apple Slaw
• Roasted Vegetable Rice Bowl with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing
• Provençal Vegetables with Salmon and Chimichurri

Each Meal Kit is designed to serve two, accompanied by easy-to-follow recipe cards that simplify the cooking process.

I also explored Sunbasket’s Market section, which offers curated add-ons like snacks, breakfast items and specialty proteins. I added a pack of their Gluten- and Grain-Free Vegan Breakfast Brownies, a convenient and tasty extra for busy mornings or a sweet treat.

The ability to mix and match meals and Market items, while choosing from an extensive range of plans, made the ordering experience feel personalized and flexible. Everything was clearly labeled with ingredient lists, nutrition information and allergen details, helping me feel confident about my selections.

Unboxing and condition of food on arrival

I’ve got to say, Sunbasket’s packaging caught my eye not just because it’s eco-friendly, but because it felt practical and well thought out. The box and insulation are made from recycled materials, including kraft paper and reclaimed denim (yes, denim!). All the ingredients came packed in recyclable brown bags, which kept everything neat and easy to find. The sauces were in clearly labeled containers, so no mystery messes in the fridge.

Now, I didn’t get to open my box right away (it sat unopened for about three hours), but when I finally did, everything was still perfectly chilled and fresh. The chicken and salmon smelled clean, with no weird odors, which is always a relief. The produce looked great overall, though the cabbage for the chicken sliders had a bit of browning, so I made sure to use that one first. Aside from that, everything looked ready to shine in the kitchen.

One thing I really liked was that the recipe cards weren’t these giant, intimidating booklets. They were small, well-organized and packed with clear instructions and little tips that made cooking feel less like a chore and more like a fun challenge, even on a busy weeknight.

Recipes, cooking and nutrition

What stood out to me about Sunbasket’s meals is their clear focus on health and quality. Every recipe I tried was dietitian-approved, as per their website, emphasizing nutrient-rich produce, whole grains, quality proteins and good fats, with minimal added sugars and processed ingredients. On their website, you can even find fun tips, such as how to turn kale into crispy air-fryer chips, which demonstrates their dedication to making healthy eating approachable and enjoyable.

One tester shared: “It made meal prep so much easier for our busy family this past week. I didn’t have to think about what to cook or spend a ton of time chopping veggies or anything. It had everything we needed for fresh, delicious meals, except for cooking oils, salt and pepper. Plus, it covered breakfast, lunch and dinner options that both my husband and I enjoyed.” That flexibility and convenience were evident in my experience as well.

Each meal typically contained between 400 and 800 calories per serving, with at least 5 grams of fiber and 10 grams of protein, as well as limited sodium, usually under 800 mg per serving. That said, the Spicy Barbacoa Chicken Sliders did come with 1,000 milligrams of sodium per serving, which is very high; however, I didn’t find the dish overly salty. If you’re watching sodium closely, it’s something to keep in mind.

The meals offered a balance of macronutrients, combining carbs, protein and fats in a way that kept me full and energized without feeling weighed down. The fiber content, enhanced by ingredients such as ancient grains, chickpeas and seeds, supported digestion and helped maintain stable energy levels. I was also pleased to see that very little added sugar was used across the board, which is a plus for anyone mindful of their sugar intake. Healthy fats come from sources like olive oil, nuts, seeds and fatty fish such as salmon, which is excellent for heart and brain health.

The produce was mostly organic, although I received a note explaining that occasionally, if organic options aren’t up to their standards or are unavailable, they substitute conventional produce. I appreciated the transparency. Their meats and seafood are responsibly sourced, antibiotic-free and hormone-free. For instance, the company claims that its chicken comes from U.S. family farms with high animal welfare standards, and its seafood is certified sustainable by trusted programs, such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch.

Now, onto the recipes I picked. All of them took about 20 to 30 minutes to prepare, which is doable even on a busy weeknight.

The Spicy Barbacoa Chicken Sliders with Cabbage-Apple Slaw were a highlight. I enjoyed chopping the jalapeño and apple into matchsticks, as well as the fresh cilantro. The aroma was refreshing and inviting. The slaw was pre-chopped, and the honey-lime vinaigrette was ready-made, which saved me time. The portion was generous with four mini potato slider buns, though I only ate two. Nutritionally, this meal packed 50 grams of protein per serving, which kept me full.

The Roasted Vegetable Rice Bowl with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing required a bit more prep, including roasting the chickpeas and vegetables, but it was worth it. I loved the mix of ancient grains, which boosted the fiber content. A surprising and delicious twist was the addition of sumac, a tangy spice that added a pop of color and flavor. Sunflower seeds added a nice crunch and nutritional punch, providing healthy fats, vitamin E and magnesium.

The Provençal Vegetables with Salmon and Chimichurri was my quickest meal to make. I chopped zucchini, yellow squash, sugar snap peas and cherry tomatoes and sautéed them in olive oil before pan-searing the salmon. The chimichurri was vibrant and fresh, and thankfully, it was pre-made to save time. While I would’ve loved a chance to make chimichurri myself, I appreciated the convenience for a busy night.

Each recipe card was well-organized, with clear instructions, allergen information, nutrition facts and even a QR code to rate the meal — a feature I hadn’t seen with other meal kits. I also enjoyed the “Planet Positivity” note, which encouraged me to swap in a plant-based meal once a week. Little touches like these made the whole experience feel thoughtful and personal.

Leftovers were perfect for next-day lunches, which was a huge bonus in my busy schedule. Overall, these meals strike a sweet spot between health, taste and convenience, making me excited to cook and eat well, even on hectic days.

Taste

Each meal was tasty, and the ingredients looked and smelled fresh. The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab gave Sunbasket a solid 4 out of 5 for flavor, which matches my experience perfectly. One tester mentioned, “The meals had great flavor without being overwhelming, which made eating healthy feel more enjoyable than I expected.”

The Spicy Barbacoa Chicken Sliders hit the spot. The chipotle in the glaze gave a nice smoky kick that wasn’t overpowering, especially since I removed the jalapeño seeds to keep the heat gentle. The cabbage-apple slaw was crisp and refreshing, perfectly balancing the spice, while the honey-lime vinaigrette brought all the flavors together smoothly. The soft potato slider buns added a pleasant texture alongside the juicy chicken. Usually, I’m not much of a slider fan, but this was light, flavorful and satisfying, definitely a lunch I’d happily eat again. Even with the highest sodium content among the meals, it didn’t taste salty at all.

My top pick was the Roasted Vegetable Rice Bowl with Chickpeas and Lemon Tahini Dressing. The roasted chickpeas were delightfully crunchy and packed with flavor, far superior to the canned ones I usually grab. The creamy tahini dressing complemented the bowl’s wholesome ingredients, including ancient grains, roasted broccoli, sumac, arugula, sunflower seeds and a hint of feta. It was filling and comforting, yet still fresh and vibrant — a total winner in my book.

For dinner, I went with the Provençal Vegetables and Salmon with Chimichurri. The chimichurri was bright and fresh, adding a zing that paired beautifully with the rich pan-seared salmon. The vegetable medley was simple yet flavorful, letting the natural sweetness of zucchini, yellow squash and snap peas shine through. It was a quick, balanced meal that felt nourishing without being heavy. I also appreciated the option to swap the salmon for other proteins, such as snapper or shrimp, for a little variety.

Overall, these meals struck a balance between flavor, nutrition and convenience. Each dish brought something unique to the table, from the smoky, spicy kick of the sliders to the nutrient-packed, satisfying rice bowl, and the fresh, light elegance of the salmon dinner. What I appreciated was how approachable the recipes were: easy to follow without complicated steps, and the meals didn’t leave me feeling heavy or overly full. It’s clear Sunbasket puts genuine care into creating dishes that nourish the body while keeping taste front and center.

Sunbasket is a great fit for anyone who wants to enjoy fresh, wholesome meals without spending hours meal planning or grocery shopping. If you care about mostly organic ingredients and sustainable sourcing but still want convenience, this service checks those boxes beautifully. It’s perfect for busy professionals or anyone juggling a hectic schedule who values nutrition and flavor.

Those with specific dietary preferences or restrictions, whether you follow Mediterranean, Paleo, vegetarian, gluten-free or carb-conscious diets, will appreciate the variety and thoughtfulness of the menu options. Just a heads up: if you have severe allergies, especially to gluten, it's worth checking carefully, as meals are prepared in a facility that handles major allergens.

If you enjoy cooking but want to keep things simple and manageable, Sunbasket’s easy-to-follow recipes and pre-prepped ingredients make it an ideal choice, with most meals ready in about 20 to 30 minutes. Plus, with Fresh & Ready meals, you can even skip cooking entirely on your busiest days.

Ultimately, if you're someone who values taste, quality and nutrition while supporting environmentally conscious practices, Sunbasket provides a convenient and delicious way to eat well.

Based on my experience, Sunbasket is worth trying if you want fresh, mostly organic meals that don’t require a lot of preparation time. It’s a great way to learn new ingredients and cooking techniques to keep your meal routine fresh. Even if you don’t continue the subscription long-term, the recipes and skills you gain are valuable.

While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the quality of ingredients and focus on nutrition make it stand out. Most meals take about 20 to 30 minutes to prepare, making them well-suited for a busy schedule. Plus, you can skip weeks or cancel at any time, so there’s no long-term commitment. The variety of meal plans also means there’s something for almost every dietary preference, from Paleo to Mediterranean to vegetarian.

Experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab rated Sunbasket a perfect 5 out of 5 for overall kit quality, reflecting its fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients and well-crafted recipes. If you're looking for a meal service that delivers both flavor and nutrition without a ton of fuss, Sunbasket is worth trying.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we rigorously test a variety of food products and services, from snacks and supplements to meal delivery services. For our latest comprehensive evaluation, we tested over 50 meal delivery services, including traditional kits with pre-measured ingredients and recipe cards, as well as fully-prepared options. We recruited more than 300 at-home chefs nationwide and had our in-house experts test the services in our Lab. Each service was carefully analyzed based on key factors like overall satisfaction, food quality, cost, sustainability efforts and availability.

Valerie Agyeman, a women’s health dietitian with over 10 years of experience in nutrition and wellness, has reviewed various meal delivery services, including Dinnerly, Blue Apron, Gobble, Factor, HelloFresh and Thistle and Sakara Life in the Good Housekeeping Nutrition Lab. This included testing the meals for taste, convenience and how well they fit into a healthy lifestyle. She also evaluated ingredient freshness, portion size, ease of preparation and how these services help make healthy eating easier for busy people.

Valerie Agyeman, R.D.

Contributing Writer

Valerie Agyeman (she/her) is a women's health dietitian and the host of the Flourish Heights podcast, where she produces science-driven content covering overlooked nutrition, wellness and women’s health topics. She has over 10 years of combined nutrition communications, corporate wellness and clinical nutrition experience. Valerie is a trusted expert in the media, regularly appearing on networks such as Fox 5 DC, PIX-11, and ABC’s Good Morning Washington. She is also a contributing expert to publications like Women’s Health Magazine, Prevention, Good Housekeeping, and The Everygirl.