My Top 10 Trader Joe’s Products
Arriving in New York from the UK five years ago, I was surprised by the lack of affordable grocery stores. Believe it not, I only discovered Trader Joes a year into living in the city. They offer quality food, at relatively affordable prices (that’s compared to Whole Foods at least). I love that they manufacture most of their products and have come up with some original options.
In no set order, here are some of my favorite Trader Joe’s products and why I love them so.
1. Roasted Butternut Squash, Red Quinoa & Wheatberry Salad
TJ’s have a great selection of pre-packaged salads, depending on the location. Perfect for a hassle-free, healthy lunch. You can also combine them with a big bag of mixed greens and some protein for a salad that will last you a few days. The Roasted Butternut squash salad has as decent amount of protein, thanks to the quinoa. For other plant-based options, add some organic chicken, fish or tofu to bulk them up. Other favorites include: ABC + K Slaw and Broccoli Slaw & Kale Salad with White Chicken Meat.
2. Frozen Grilled Eggplant, Zucchini & Red Pepper
If you’ve ever walked down the frozen aisle at TJs, you’ll know they have an expansive selection of precooked veggie options. Contrary to popular belief, frozen veggies are often more nutritious than fresh because they are frozen shortly after being picked thus retain their antioxidant levels. There are lots of good options to choose from – I particularly like their mixed roast veggie Misto Alla Griglia.
3. Trader Joe's Omega Trek Mix
Trail mix is one of my top snack suggestions. If you don’t have time to make your own, try this omega blend. from TJs. Unlike other store-bought varieties, this is lower in sugar and has a good combination of protein and healthy fats from the walnuts. Choose the individual wrapped packets for healthy portion control.
4. Grainless granola
In general, I try to steer clear of granola or cereals at breakfast because of the high sugar. With that said, there are some options out there, like TJs grainless granola which I love. Lower in carbs than other granola - it contains dried coconut, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and coconut oil. Pair it with some full-fat vanilla greek yogurt and mixed red berries for a tasty, healthy breakfast.
5. Green Goddess Salad Dressing
This delicious, fresh salad dressing is made from avocados, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, green onions and some extras. You should note that it isn’t pasteurized so best avoided if you are pregnant or have a compromised immune system. I like that it’s made from ‘real ingredients’ and only 20 kcals per serving.
6. Mire Poix, Celery, Carrots & Onions
Save time and get your veggies in with TJs Mire Poix. Their mixed tub makes a great base for soups, stews, sautés and sauces. I’ve thrown them into a big hot pot with chicken and noodles and made a delicious, healthy soup.
7. Mixed nut butter
I spend a lot of time inspecting the nutrition labels of nut butter brands. Many of them have added sugars or hydrogenated oils. The only ingredients in TJs mixed nut butter are, almonds, cashews, walnuts, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, and pecans. Add a tbsp to chopped apple or drizzle in oatmeal to get some extra protein and healthy fats.
8. Maitre Pierre - Tarte D’Alace French Style Flatbread
Admittedly not the “healthiest food” they offer, but I absolutely love these French-style flatbreads. They come in three flavors - ham, caramelized onions and gruyere cheese, French Brie and perfect cherry tomato halves and truffle and mushrooms. The thin crust makes them a light, low kcal option that is perfect with a mixed salad side.
9. Cauliflower Thins
Cauliflower is quickly becoming one of the most versatile veggies! From pizza crusts to rice and pastas. I tried their cauliflower thins a few weeks ago as a replacement for bread and they have now become a staple of my weekly shop. I like to broil them for a couple of minutes to crisp them up and add some hummus or pesto and cheese, delicious!
10. Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning
A classic TJ seasoning, ‘everything but the bagel’ is a mix of sesame seeds, sea salt flakes, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, black sesame seeds, poppy seeds. It literally goes with everything and adds a whole new dimension to any dish (think avo toast, dips, eggs and pasta)