I am like giddy today.
GIDDY!
I don’t know why, but random posts like this make me HAPPY!!
Today, I’m going to share with you all my favorite Trader Joe’s finds.
Here’s the thing about Trader Joe’s…I wasn’t going for the longest time because, even though there’s one in my town, I don’t ever drive past it. BUT back in the fall, I started going more regularly and now, I make a point to drive by it at least once a week to shop. I like to go first thing in the morning after I drop kiddos off at school because it’s not crowded, and I can take my time. I buy a whole random assortment of things, but what I’m going to show you today are my staples. I am SO HOPING that at the end of the post, you guys comment and tell me what I should be buying there next time I go (which will most likely be tomorrow). Ready, set, here we go!
Just a girl, in Trader Joe’s with an empty cart and all sorts of potential in front of her…
I love so many things in this section here that I just took one big picture. The individual burritos, the soups, the packaged salads…those have turned into my lunch staples during the week. I love them all so much. Know what else I love? This…
These White Cheddar Corn Puffs taste like air. Like cheesy air. My kids and I could eat the whole bag in one sitting. We don’t…but we could. They’re light, they’re cheddar-y, they just disappear in my mouth.
I’m not a chip person. You know how some people say they could sit on the couch and devour a bag of chips? Yeah, that’s not really me. (I am a cheese and cracker person!) I am, however, a HUGE Organic White Truffle Potato Chip person. Holy cow! I buy extra bags because my kids like these in their lunch now too. Every little bite is bursting with flavor. Truffle flavor.
I don’t always see these crackers in our store, but when I do, I buy them! They are the perfect accompaniment to my charcuterie boards! So is this…
…Trader Joe’s does a lot of things right, but in my opinion, it does cheese THE BEST!!! They have such a wide variety of cheeses and so far, I’ve never bought one that’s disappointed me. Again, I use them all the time on these…
…you can see exactly which cheeses from TJ’s that I used for this board HERE.
Have you tried their Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels? I like to have a cup of coffee in the afternoon while I work before the kids get home from school and eat a few of these too. A little crunchy, a little salty, a little creamy, a whole lot of perfect.
These are our two favorite breads to buy for toast in the morning. My kids love both of them (and so do I!). Toast with a little jam, almond butter or Nutella and we’re happy people!
I love to have veggie juice in the morning. A few years ago, I started juicing myself buuuuuut that didn’t last long because it is such a pain to clean the juicer and it was always so depressing to see all of that produce go unused after you press the juice. So, I’ve been drinking a variety of store bought juices, but friends, these two are my faves!! On the side of the bottle, it lists exactly what is inside, plus, they’re only 100 calories. I buy both and drink one every morning. I hate cleaning my juicer 🙂 .
I love both of these bagged salads. Sometimes we eat them individually and some times, I mix the two. I like to pair them with…
…one of their fresh salad dressings!
Okay, I know I say this all the time, but guys, I LOVE DIP. Like dip can be a meal for me. So….I try to always keep dip on hand for afternoon snacking…
…these are three of my faves!!! I also love their pimento cheese dip and their jalapeno artichoke dip too!! I like to dunk these in my dip…
…um, so good! I just bought two boxes when I went last Monday. They’re smaller than say a Ritz cracker and in my opinion, better. Yum!!!
Madeley Shull’s favorite thing at Trader Joe’s? This…
…BAM. I have to limit her consumption of them every day. She would eat the whole package if I allowed her. She gets one in her lunchbox and maybe another one some other time during the day. She starts asking for them at breakfast. Hahaha!
Remember how I mentioned these in that first pic? THEY. ARE. SO. DARN. DELICIOUS…
…Trader Joe’s makes a wide variety of burritos, but these two are my faves. One for breakfast, one for lunch, always good! They’re in the refrigerator section and very fresh. Watch the expiration date on the package!
Spice, spices, spices!!! These three are the ones we reach for (and have to replace) the most often! I sprinkle that Everything But The Bagel seasoning on our scrambled eggs every morning.
Almond Butter for the WIN!!!!
Okay, in one of my VERY favorite movies, It’s Complicated, there’s a big scene where they make homemade chocolate croissants. Well, since Meryl Streep can’t come to my house and make them for me, I buy these instead…
…you’ll find them in the freezer section. You set them out and let them rise before you bake them and oh my word, they’re insanely good!
I’m a huge fan of club soda! I drink it all the time. These are two of my faves from TJ’s…
…yes, yes, YES!
Again with my Charcuterie Board…
…this is my favorite pepper jelly! This plus a little cheese and maybe some salami? YES! Or spooned over some cream cheese? YAAAAAAS!!
I shared this with you back in December…
…this Sliced French Brioche makes the best grilled cheese!! I had it toasted up with homemade jam for breakfast just Thursday morning. This stuff will spoil you.
I also like to buy greeting cards at Trader Joe’s. I typically pick up one or two just to have on hand, but when I saw these the other day, I bought eight…
…how cute are they?!? It says Frenchie!!! Hahaha!
Okay, so I bought this stuff to make a super quick and easy dinner the other night and though in lieu of Meal Planning Monday today (I’ll share that tomorrow), I would show you our supper all made with…
…things I bought at Trader Joe’s! To see what we had for supper using this, click HERE.
Whew!! Okay, what are your favorite things from Trader Joe’s??? What should I buy tomorrow?? Please comment and share! xo
Jennie says
Well I’m currently on a round of Whole30 so my shopping is slightly different, but I love Trader Joe’s vegan pesto and cashew dip (basically vegan queso).
Mia says
I’m starting Whole 30 today ! Any tips for Trader Joe item that are Whole 30 approved? Good luck with your Whole 30!
Katherine says
Their produce options are a fun way to mix up
Whole 30 – butternut squash zig zags, sweet potato noodles, shredded brussel sprouts.
Some of their sausages are whole 30 approved (the garlic chicken sausage and Italian sausage I think? They both don’t have added sugar or nitrates!).
Great selection and variety of nuts, but definitely have to check the ingredients since lots are not whole 30 approved.
They have larabars, which can be whole 30 based on the flavors.
And definitely their frozen cauliflower rice. You can top it with their coconut aminos (soy sauce substitute)! Such a good base for any whole 30 meal and an easy way to add a lot of fiber and flavor!
Amber says
Cauliflower rice is super yummy! If you saute mushrooms in coconut oil or olive oil, salt, and pepper. At the end of sauteing the mushrooms add some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime..(taste test to make sure it is to your liking…and remember you can always add more lime if necessary). Then add the cauliflower rice and a little bit more olive oil if your pan is dry, and continue cooking until cauliflower rice is done (taste test, you may need to add a little bit of salt and pepper depending on much you added to mushrooms) —> perfect compliment to chicken, seafood, or steak!
Jenn says
Hi Mia! I am on day 27 of my third Whole 30! Here are a couple of resources. Good luck!
https://littlebitsof.com/2016/03/whole-30-trader-joes-must-haves/
https://physicalkitchness.com/the-ultimate-trader-joes-whole30-shopping-list/
Liz says
I love the jalapeno almond dip! At first I thought it was weird, and now I am obsessed with it on baby carrots! Makes me eat so many more vegetables! And Whole30 🙂
Morgan H says
Shay your list is spot on!! For all the Whole30 eaters, TJ’s produce is truly amazing and I would encourage buying the presliced/peeled/prepped creative veggies like shredded Brussel sprouts and sliced butternut squash – you’re going to be cooking a lot, this is totally worth the extra 50¢ promise ?. I also loved the premade guacamole with plantain chips (ate it every day), almond butter, ghee, the Creole seasoned Salmon, dried fruit and Lara bars (sparingly), all of the dried seasonings without sugar to mix things up, the refrigerated Greed Goddess dressing, the good quality olive oils (too many to name), coconut oil, and cold brew coffee bags (and premade) will make the no coffee creamer thing enjoyable ?
Allison says
I’m on day 15 today of W30. Trader Joe’s chili lime chicken burgers are compliant and delicious. I put a smear of avocado on top with some salsa on a bed of lettuce—SO good. It’s a staple for me.
Krista Huckabee says
You must get the sharp white cheddar cheese w carmelized onion for your board. Game. Changer. Or for fancy grilled cheese…
Meryl Ater says
I was about to recommend this very same cheese. It is so good. My daughter, who hates onions, even loves this cheese. 🙂
Laura says
I don’t go often but when I do i get their habanero hot sauce (I don’t use it but my husband adds it to every meal and claims it is the best hot sauce he’s ever had). A friend also always recommends their green Dragon sauce. And I love their caramelized onion dip (great with pita chips). Once at the sample display area they had the dip mixed into mashed potatoes and it was amazing!! Oh and of course their plantain chips!!! Love them so much.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I’ve got to visit Trader Joe’s when I visit the States! Their food looks so fun, haha! 🙂
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Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Erika Slaughter says
That truffle ravioli you had for dinner is one of my favorite things. SO VERY GOOD!! But I’d I had to name one-it’s be the pepper jelly. Hands down!
Amanda says
Thank you for all of the great tips, Shay!
We always pick up the mini pitas and tabouleh for a meal. We also love: the garlic roasted hummus, grilled lemon chicken (in the fridge section — makes an easy lunch), cauliflower pizza crust (frozen food section), ham & cheese croissants (frozen food section), dark chocolate Peanut Butter cups, oh and their fresh marinara sauce (fridge section). Happy shopping!
Audrey Dawkins says
They have the best sweet potato fries in the freezer section.
Brooke says
Ghost pepper salsa, smoked salmon, cauliflower gnocchi, frozen grilled asparagus, and their sweet potatoe ribbons are all amazing! Love Trader Joe’s!
Emily says
I love Trader Joe’s but I have to ask…are you not buying your pb filled pretzels from Costco? Theirs are the best deal around and our favorites. My husband eats them around the clock. At work we used to buy the frozen TJ spinach dip and have chip and dip parties. It is so yummy and easy as you just microwave it. You also need the speculoo (sp?) cookies as they are just like biscoffs.
Kelly White says
Oh my goodness their carmalized onion feta pastry bites are TO DIE FOR!!! They are in the freezer section!!!
Zakia says
Yes!!!! I love those! Have some in my freezer right now ?!! I also love their strawberry rhubarb soda. It’s not too sweet. I love anything g from Trader Joe’s honestly lol.
Sandra says
Those are the besssst!! Every time we have people over and I put them out, they rave.
Tricia says
Orange chicken, cilantro lime wontons and potstickers! Oh and my kids love their cereal bars.
Eileen says
We find more than half of our grocery shopping is now at Trader Joes. Favorites and staples in our house are:
– Mandarin Orange Chicken
– light mozzarella cheese sticks
– pico de Gallo
– kale (great for soups)
– tortilla chips (so many varieties – we like them all)
– cinnamon rolls
– appetizers: artichoke spinach dip, mozzarella sticks, big pretzels
– frozen oatmeal (it may be steel cut oats)
– French fries and sweet potato fries
– frozen green beans
– frozen vegetable fried rice and frozen riced cauliflower fried rice
– cereal (specifically the Raisin Bran clusters and shredded wheat)
– lemon basil pasta salad (great in the summer as a side with grilled chicken or a burger)
Lauren Hufford says
The eggplant hummus and dark chocolate covered almonds with sea salt are my faves! The seasonings are also a must every time I go there!
Annie says
Peach Salsa! My favorite TJ item. It is especially delicious with the sweet potato chips. The salsa is good on its own, or with fish, chicken, pretty much anything! I have to be so careful not to eat the whole car in one setting!
Narci says
What a great list! I love the spicy penne arrabiatta and turkey meatballs! Also, the tomato soup is fabulous with Boursin cheese melted in it! Yum!
Sheaffer Sims says
I’m going today! This is what I’m grabbing today: a couple packages of butter lettuce, honeycrisp apples (cheaper here for sure), the small packs of of avocados in the mesh net (always perfect and tasty!), the dried mangoes, Argentenian shrimp, cauliflower rice, shrimp stir fry, wonton soup, frozen mangoes, frozen cherries, roasted corn and poblano soup, taco seasoning and, canned corn (their canned corn is SO GOOD!). I’ll also hopefully grab a small plant. I get these all the time for the house and the prices are awesome. I also love to go when I can stroll peacefully. I went once over the weekend and I will NEVER do that ever again.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
In the frozen section, they have 98% fat free bean and cheese burritos…AMAZING!!! I love those for lunch at school!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
CJ says
Omg! We buy so much there!
TJ’s copycat organic Fritos (dipped in that guac!) are to die for!
I drink their cold brew coffee iced in the summers with vanilla almond milk.
If you like sparkling water, try spindrift and Waterloo.
We love the gluten free bread and cookies.
Their fall stuff is the best, especially GF pumpkin pancake mix.
The best gingerbread house I ever bought was from TJs this past year!
And greeting cards!!!! So cheap!
Sarah Henderson says
Individually portioned Brie bites
Vegetable fried rice (frozen)
Brie and asparagus Mac n cheese (frozen)
Tea tree oil shampoo and conditioner (repels lice, so I use it on my elementary-aged children)
French milled bar soap (green tea scent)
Caramelized onion and feta pastry bites (frozen)
I also love the shredded Brussels sprouts!
Lori C. says
You have to try the gingerbread house at Costco!
Nicole says
Next to the French brioche are the French milk rolls (plain and chocolate chip). They are amazing. You cannot pass them up – so good for dipping in coffee in the morning (and my kids gobble them up). The chocolate dipped granola bars are a delicious indulgence. Other go tos for us invoice: fruit pouches (apple mango), frozen asparagus risotto, frozen cauliflower fried rice, frozen chicken shu Mai, garlic naan (freezer section), the danish Kringle, chili spiced mango (dried fruit), and the seasonal jams!
Kailey Riddle says
The frozen Gorgonzola gnocchi and sweet potato gnocchi are amazing!
Alexis deZayas says
This post is making me giddy too!! I never leave without that pepper jelly since you suggested it, honey with honey comb in it (I like it better than our local honey!), chicken sausages, dark chocolate peanut butter cups and dried chicken dog treats (super health and my pup loves them!). For cheeses I LOVE unexpected cheddar, horseradish cheddar and ghost pepper cheddar- I love their brioche toasts too!! Their inner peas chips and new umami mushroom seasoning is really good too! And if you need an adult drink I’m OBSESSED with their Schloss Biebrich rose champagne (and I don’t even love champagne!). I love getting flowers, cards and candles too!
Shannon says
You have to try the Jo-Jo’s. They are better than Oreos! Their granola bars are the best, Chocolate chip and the peanut butter are our fave. Pre-cooked bacon is delish, strawberry lemonade is so yum and their yellow curry sauce makes an amazing Indian dish, especially with their frozen naan! Oh yah, and the teriyaki sauce is the only one we use! I have been shopping at TJ’s for over 10 years. I can’t live without so many of their products. Everything they make is just better!
Katie says
I like their candles and hand lotion. The Beer Bread is good, too!
Amy says
You already have many of our favorites!
We like their Black Pepper Toscano cheese- it tastes just like Sartori Bellavitano which costs 3x the amount, and their Mediterranean Hummus is our favorite hummus.
We also like their Brie cheese in the red white and blue label and the French cheese in the box- Fromage Pave. It tastes so good with their Pepper Jelly or their plum jam.
We like their pork gyozas with red or sweet carmelized onion and the bag of broccoli you showed. I salute the opinion in EVOO with some sea salt and pepper then steam the broccoli in the micro as it says, then steam the gyozas for five minutes or so while the onion is cooking. Then combine them all with a little soy sauce and a little of their gyoza sauce and it is very tasty. We make a bag of their jasmine rice from the freezer, but I know you have a rice cooker.
I make my own meatballs when I have time, but when I’m in a rush, their party-sized turkey meatballs in the frozen section are so good. If you are also rushing their Penne Arrabiata is fabulous – tastes like you slow cooked a meal for two hours if you sauté a red onion first, with sea salt and black pepper and then add some red wine. Let the onion cook for five minutes or so and then follow the directions on the penne Arrabiata package. Steam some turkey meatballs in a small bowl in the microwave- like half the bag – for just one-two minutes. I take the meatballs out and cut them in half- the ones that are soft and add to my penne pan, stirring occasionally- frequently, then put the meatballs that are still harder back in the micro for another 30-60 seconds. Repeat when the rest of the meatballs are soft . Add everything together and cover/ turn the heat off and let the meal finish steam cooking for 5 minutes, then add their crumbled Parmasean or shaved Parmasean- both very good. We also like their three cheese shaved cheese container: Parma, Asiago, and White Cheddar. For your family, you would need to double the recipe I just gave you. So but two bags of the pasta and use a large red onion.
My husband likes their Kung Pao chicken from the frozen section. I begin with cutting about 1/3 – 1/2 of a sweet opinion and 1/2 of a red pepper – sauté those first and then follow the directions on the package. We use their Jasmine rice from the frozen section and if I have some left over rotisserie chicken, I cut up some chicken from that and add it to the Kung Pao chicken. Their fried rices: vegetable and chicken are very good with rotisserie chicken, too. Again, I begin with cutting up some of my own onion, red pepper and use their frozen sweet corn – like 1/3-1/2 cup of corn and sauté those for a few minutes in EVOO before I add the bag of fried rice- follow the directions on the package- we make the whole bag at one time. I cut pieces of chicken from a rotisserie chicken and add to the sauté pan towards the end of cooking and they taste like restaurant fried rice. Their Greek salad is the best! We buy two and I add their Pitted Kalamata olives, almost a whole package of their Feta cheese and I cut up two or three Roma tomatoes, some red pepper and some Cucumber, sometimes an avocado and we have a big Greek salad as an entree some summer nights! So good. Just as fresh ground pepper and a handful of their Power Greens if you want. Their Power Greens bag is great to add to any salad- or eat like chips straight out of the bag. So healthy. Their roasted potato bag with peppers and onion is also very good if you are in a hurry but want potatoes with dinner. I start with sautéing a little extra onion in EVOO first again, then add the potato mix and sauté until finished. My husband likes it with their Carnitas they sell in the refrigerated section. Their Columbus salami $4.49 in a paper outer wrap is very good and so is the tray of Provolone and Salami they import from Italy- $3.99. I will stop here -try those
Emily says
Love TJ!!! Their unexpected cheddar cheese is phenomenal. I love their vanilla coffee creamer & their pepeita tahini salad. So so good!!
Helen says
The chocolate croissants are yummy BUT their almond ones are even better!! Oh and their eggplant/roasted pepper spread and the balsamic glaze are also delicious!
Lindsey says
Plantain chips (purple bag) are the absolute best! Our whole family eats them! Also, their dry roasted almonds are the best. We love any of their nuts. My kids will only eat Trader Joe’s yogurt. The cups are the perfect size for kids. I also love all of their pickles and relish options. I think they taste homemade!
Darcey says
Try a jar of their pepper jelly and 1/2 cup ketchup over meatballs in the crockpot. My TJ’s did a demo on this last week and it was declisous! A huge hit at book club!
Connie says
Oh my gosh! Trader Joes has so many great items. We love that Everything but the Bagel seasoning! Use it nearly every day on eggs or toast with cream cheese. I plan on making my own bagels with the greek yogurt 4-5 ingredients and season them with this of course. A friend of mine made them and says they are delish! We like their Carmelized onion dip too. I can’t think of what else that you didn’t mention. Thanks for sharing! I need to make a trip soon to try a few things you bought here. ? My hubby munches on pretzels and sometimes with a spoonful of peanut butter. So we must try those filled kind.
Heather says
Tamari soy sauce crackers, fig and olive crisps, edamame..
Courtney says
Their yogurts with cream are the best! Mangoes & Cream, Bananas & Cream, Blueberries & Cream……they’re all SO good!
Laura says
The plantain chips are my fave! They are great for dips or just snacking.
Emily says
Love the plantain chips! They are AMAZING with the jalapeno almond dip (which is whole 30). It is not too spicy and it is delicious!
Vreni says
Oh my so many favorites to choose from!!!! Here are a few of my staples that are thus far not mentioned: General tsos sauce (so perfect for stir fry night and isn’t overly salty like other brands), Carmel/cheddar popcorn mix, cinnamon rolls that are in the 5 pack tube… so amazing, orchids (perfect for an inexpensive gift! My gifted TJ plants have reblooned for years), blueberry encrusted goat cheese, merlot/Shiraz encrusted cheese (I’m a WI girl and this is the best cheese I’ve ever had. Ever.)! Enjoy!
lori bran says
I have tons of Trader Joes greeting cards in little frames throughout my office and also a few at home. They make the most adorable wall art! Also, if you aren’t buying bags of their chocolate chips you are missing out! We also love their nut mixes, especially the one with just almonds, cashews and chocolate. My kids love their little yogurt smoothie drinks. Also buy their frozen skinless chicken, you can throw it in the instant pot frozen and it cooks up perfectly. You also need the lentil curls from the chip section.
Liz says
I’m a big fan of their Teeny Tiny avocados (perfect for a one person snack), Inner Peas snacks, chicken gyoza, chicken soup dumplings, char siu bao (Chinese style pork buns), and beef Italian meatballs.
Katy F says
Those chocolate croissants are my FAVE!!! My sister in law just told me about their new pancake bread (described as a twist on a buttermilk short stack, baked into a sweet, moist loaf )….I have yet to try it but it’s on my list for my next trip!
Lillian says
My two year old is OBSESSED with their freeze dried strawberries (they’re in the dried fruit and nut section). She even prefers them to fresh strawberries. ??♀️
Annie B says
I love TJ’s, and love to see what other people buy there! Thanks for the post!!!!! Random question, would you share your bag from the shopping cart pic?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s a laser cute LV tote!
Ace says
You absolutely can’t beat their frozen brussel sprouts. I just toss them in the microwave with a lid and cook a minute or two more than the bag suggests. They are good plain or with a bit of salt.
They had an eggplant spread in a jar that is amazing toasted on pita or their naan.
There frozen french onion soup is the best ,but I really suggest cooking in the oven.
Grace says
I wish we had a Trader Joe’s close by! Did you know Costco has Everything but the Bagel seasoning and Peanut Butter pretzels? They are a better price. The seasoning is $4.50 for 11.5 oz. at my Costco.
haley @cupcakes and sunshine says
LOVE this post and all things Trader Joe’s!! As random as this is, their frozen roasted potatoes are the best ever!! I also love their butternut squash zigzags!!
Heather says
We live off Trader Joe’s! A lot of your favorites are our favorites! A couple things we LOVE are : cowboy caviar, the onion salt, veggie burgers, and the marinated mozzarella!
Sara mayo says
You are my favorite blogger EVER!!! Thank you for sharing all the best stuff.
Anna says
I love new TJ’s suggestions and I’ll be adding some of yours to my list. What I buy regularly:
-Mandrin Orange Chix, frozen edemame fried rice, frozen pot stickers, frozen brown rice, frozen stir fry veggies
-ginger almond & cashew granola (SO good- lot of sugar but a great treat)
-unsweetened instant oatmeal packs
-beer bread mix (I add cheddar & jalapeños)
-blue cheese dressing/dip (refrigerated)
-goddess dressing (non-refrigerated)
-taco mix (no weird chemicals)
-canned Cuban black beans
-TJ’s Unexpected Cheddar
-pumpernickel pretzel sticks
-mango vanilla bars (frozen)
-handmade flour tortillas (no weird additives)
-shredded 3 cheese blend (makes the best Mac & cheese)
-mini packs of almonds & cashews
-truffle or rosemary marcona almonds (excellent add to cheese boards)
Could do a whole separate list during the holidays! Thanks for sharing!
Joelle says
Cauliflower gnocchi!! You’ll thank me later 🙂 and the silver dollar pancakes for the kids
Heather says
Cauliflower Gnocchi? it is THE BEST! But pan fry it with some EVOO….don’t follow package directions. I also LOVE the ground chicken for buffalo chicken meatloaf and the chicken sausages;)
ali says
Ooh, please give me more details on prep for the gnocchi, I’ve bought it a few times but haven’t mastered how to make it just right. Typically serve with diced tomatoes/veggie sauce
Jill says
I live in Canada and we don’t have Trader Joe’s. But the FOMO is huge this morning!!!! so many things sound delish!! I will be hunting one out next time I am in the States!
Tish Ferry says
What a great post! We don’t have a Trader Joes but when we are in the Metroplex I try to grab a few things to take home! I love their dips and their cauliflower rice is my favorite! Simply Tish
Alicia says
I always get a small bouquet of flowers at TJ. They last a long time and are really inexpensive! If you like hummus, their cilantro and jalapeño hummus is the best. My Lebanese friend (whose grandmother makes hummus from scratch) is super picky and she loves this stuff! Their Indian yellow Curry salad in the fresh section is amazing. I second the Orange Chicken. My kids very favorite meal. I really love their chicken stock for soups. The best I’ve found.
Kristin says
In addition to a lot of things that have been mentioned, Trader Jacques butter. Yum!
Melissa Terry says
I love TJ’s and it’s definitely my favorite errand each month. I grab their Greek Chicken in the refrigerated section for a quick dinner option and we also love the hummus, wine country chicken salad, pie crusts, creamy tomato and basil spaghetti sauce, granola bars, seasoned brussel sprouts (or at least I love these and the kids eat them because they know they have to-ha), honey nut cereal, yogurt smoothies, french vanilla coffee, pink and white sprinkle cookies. I’m sure I’ve forgotten something but there are so many yummies. Thanks for sharing your favs!
Andrea says
I’ve never commented before despite being a reader for years now, but I love TJs, so I wanted to share some of my family’s favorites:
-polenta, frozen bag, has carrots and other yummy things in it
-mashed cauliflower, frozen bag
-olives, in a jar, they’re big and green with a pit. Starts with a ch…
-macaroons, frozen box, perfect for a quick dessert when company stops by
-American cheese cracker slices, great to go with the crackers you mentioned and super fast since it’s already a small square
-frozen herbs (ginger, basil, garlic) they’re portioned our in small squares and make life easy when you’re short of prep time
-Sparkling limeaid, TJs brand – if you like their sparking water (which I do), you’ll like this!
There’s more, but I don’t feel like I’m doing the ent job describing everything, so I’ll stop here. 🙂
Happy shopping!
Caroline says
Oh man- I am going to TJs today and I always have to pick up a box of the chocolate covered toffee bites. I treat myself to 2 while I have my afternoon coffee and it is just the pick me up I need to get through the day. I also make killer blondies using these! I also always buy TJ’s frozen arugula and tomato pizza. It’s so cheap (maybe $3.99??) and it’s the perfect last min dinner to have on hand when my husband is out of town. I serve it with a green salad and extra parm!
Kristina says
You should try the Brioche bread for french toast…. THE BEST!
Erin says
I always stock up on their frozen Mahi Mahi burgers when I can find them. Yum!
Kathy says
Our family loves the chicken sausage from the refrigerated section, also the frozen mashed potatoes discs turn out delicious and you can add, butter, cream, cheese, etc. We think the TJ’s peanut butter pretzels are waaayyyy better than the Cost Co ones. Love all your posts!!!
Jill Goolsby says
One of my favorites are their Hot and Sweet Jalapenos! I put them on my eggs, sandwiches, burritos, anything they can go on. So good!
Samantha Carfi says
I love Trader Joes so much I started an Instagram account to highlight seasonal items and staples I just can’t get enough of! Follow me! @traderjoes_delraybeach – also you need to try the Bamba! It’s in the chips section and it is ADDICTING! 🙂
Randi says
How has no one mentioned the pickles?! Every time I go I buy two jars. They are so yummy! Also, of course the frozen orange chicken.
Tanya says
I can’t wait to read all the comments to get TJ’s recommendations. I love shopping there every few weeks. Here are some of our faves: good prices on meat, butter (I used it to make buttercream frosting one time and it tasted soo much better than my usual), guiltless guac, orange chicken, jelly from Poland, applesauce (my son noticed that it tasted better), frozen mozzarella cheese sticks, chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwiches, kettle chips, dog treats, face masks, candles, cards, animal crackers, and the list goes on and on. Thanks for the fun post!
Janette says
There’s a Trader Joe’s podcast, and there’s a Freakanomics podcast that discussed their business plan. Basically, they do everything you aren’t supposed to do in business which explains their success. I think you would enjoy them.
Danielle Smith says
Goats Milk Gouda paired with the Rosemary Raisin Crisps is our GO TO cheese and cracker snack! 🙂
Abbie says
Trader Joe’s is my favorite grocery store by far. They just have the best stuff. You have to get the vegan, kale, cashew, basil pesto!! It is honestly the best thing. I make it with pasta, put it on pizza as the sauce, dip veggies in it, put it on sandwiches. It is amazing!! and just the best version of pesto out there.
Also the cauliflower gnocchi is always in my freezer.
Best cheese- creamy toscano cheese soaked in syrah. AMAZING! and creamy
Amanda Bacon says
One of our staples at TJs thats not listed by anyone else is their frozen brown rice. Its microwaveable, 3 bags come in a box, and its delicious my kids gobble it up! I use it in so many recipes or as a quick side dish for dinner!
Ashley Wadlow says
I looooove Trader Joe’s!!! I do t have one very close to me so when I get to go I STOCK up!! The dried chili mango slices are UH-mazing! I love their reduced-guilt Mac and cheese. Throw a little rotisserie chicken in with it and it makes a quick and tasty lunch! I also am obsessed with their dips. Your three favorite are also my three favorite. I also always buy the Mediterranean feta cheese crumbles (great in salads) and the triple ginger snaps are SO good!! One other staple I buy are the dog treats ( I know weird huh…). My little Betty loves them!!
Clearly I’m very passionate about all things Trader Joe’s!!
Amy says
Wine, wine and wine! Their $2.99 and $3.99 bottles of wine are wonderful and we’ve just tried the cartwheel peanut butter cookies, which are great. They have a hair mask that’s perfect to use year round. I wash my hair on average 2 times per week and the hair mask is perfection and is around $5.00.
Morgan says
The hair mask is LIFE!!!!!
Katrina says
Blueberry vanilla chèvre is amazing! TJs really does make the best cheese. Also, their parsnip chips! I honestly I had no idea what a parsnip even was before trying them but now I am addicted! For something sweet, try the ultimate vanilla wafers and add some fresh blueberries into the mix. 🙂 Love these posts and the comments!
Katherine says
Sooo many delicious finds at Trader Joe’s!
Their plantain chips and all of their salsas are another great snacking option!
Butternut squash zig zags and sweet potato noodles are fun to add to dishes or roast.
GREAT selection of teas! I love their ginger turmeric tea.
Lots of tasty treats…their dark chocolate almonds and peanut butter cups are so good.
They also have so many variety’s of nuts and some of the cheapest prices for them! I love their chili lime cashews and roasted macadamia nuts.
And finally…beautiful flower arrangements at great prices!
Erika says
Oh my gosh you’re missing some of my favorites: their bruschetta and garlic dip. SO good. I like it together, over oastat for a quick meal, garlic cup on chicken or fish before cooking, all the things. Also their banana chips are DELICIOUS and oddly enough, dipped in guacamole! Chile lime chicken burgers in the freezer section and the manadarin orange chicken is a quick and easy at home fix for craving Chinese!
Deb says
I love Trader Joes! My absolute favorite is the frozen brown rice. So easy and delicious. Also love the frozen riced cauliflower stir fry and the trail mix packets.
Christina says
I love Trader Joe’s! I joined the Facebook group Trader Joe’s Ideas for busy moms and get a lot of great recipes and product information. Get the almond Kringle when available, it can be frozen. It’s amazing, comes from Wisconsin and 1/3 of the cost from the Kringle website.
Paige says
The cauliflower fried rice, the yellow curry jackfruit in the freezer section, the potstickers. Their taco seasoning, the vanilla chai protein shake near your juices, any of their pre packaged trail mixes. So good and so easy to throw in a bag!
Paige says
Oh and if you love their cheeses, you haven’t lived until you’ve tried their vanilla blueberry goat cheese. Get it and thank me later!!!!
Shelley says
My faves are definitely the cheeses too for my cheese/charcuterie boards. Love the blueberry goat cheese log and the cranberry one too when they have it. The merlot/Shiraz soaked cheese is my all-time favorite. Last week, the lady re-stocking the cheese at TJs talked me into the bacon cheddar and everyone LOVED it in my family. Also bought the Challah bread at TJs for my supper club and cut the top out and scooped in the bacon cheddar dip and people went crazy about it. Such an easy appetizer. Love the caramalized onion dip too. I love dips like you do. Another party trick is the macarons in the frozen section. They are delicious and I mix the colorful ones with the vanilla and chocolate ones for every party! Add the Chile lime cashews to your cheese boards and the dried apricots. You will love them!
Lisa D says
Try the vegan carrot ginger miso salad dressing. I also buy raw almonds and other nuts at TJ’s, Mandarin Orange Chicken in the frozen section, fresh or frozen wild (not that nasty farmed stuff) salmon, and our favorite little treat is their Hold The Cone mini ice cream cones, YUM! Also, buy yourself some cut flowers, they are inexpensive and lovely! Enjoy your Trader’s shopping excursion.
Andrea says
Kung Pao chicken in the frozen section! I like it even more than the Mandarin Orange Chicken (not fried, not so sweet, a little spicy).
Clare Butler says
I love TJ’s, and recently started going to the one in you area because it’s much more calm peaceful!! The other location always feels chaotic. I never knew grocery shopping could be so therapeutic!
My fave things are for sure cookie butter (crunchy and smooth) and the açaí purée packets!!!
Sarah says
Thai Chili and Lime Almonds! They are perfect with a little cheese snack in the afternoon. A perfect sweet heat!
Francesca says
Okay nobody’s mentioned the quinoa and rice in the freezer section – so easy to make – 3 minutes in the microwave and the rice is done!
Rachel says
Our favorites are the brioche bread, dark chocolate peanut Butter cups, aioli mustard garlic sauce and red pepper spread with eggplant and garlic!
emily @ a little bit of emily says
Gosh, there are so many good things! I absolutely love their vegan kale pesto. It’s great with the cauliflower gnocchi, or mixed with fresh mozz and tomatoes. Their chicken sausages are delicious – I love the jalapeno, spicy italian and roast garlic. And the pepper turkey bacon is delicious. I feel like it has such great flavor. Roasted veggies frozen pizza, dark chocolate peanut better cups, plaintain chips, pico…really the list goes on! Ohh and my recent favorite finds – the chicken and vegetable dumplings in the freezer section, paired with their frozen edamame!
Eileen says
Their frozen cauliflower fried rice is the best!! I add leftover protein or sometimes just throw in tofu and it’s wonderful!
Leslie says
If you like dips, you need to try their smoked salmon dip! SO GOOD.
Cheriese says
We love to dip the little tamari rice crackers in the smoked salmon dip!
Shelby says
We recently started doing extravagant pizza nights at our house. We pick up the pre-made dough from TJ, which tastes like New York pizza. Then all the toppings, and have friends over. Such a fun night!
Addison says
Oh my goodness I love me some Trader Joe’s! My must haves that you don’t already buy: RX bars, cauliflower gnocchi, cashews, frozen cherries, frozen turkey burgers, frozen chicken lime burgers, almond milk yogurt, butternut squash zig zags (they taste like fries!), frozen mashed sweet potatoes, turkey breasts, I could go on and on!
Ashley Hatfield says
So many good things you mentioned, and in everyone’s comments! I live about a 5 minute walk from a TJ’s and always go on my way home from the train. It is a bad addiction! Some of my favorites:
-any and all cheese, like you mentioned. Goat cheese logs and smoked gouda are the bomb.
-burrata – we will serve one with cut cherry tomatoes, arugula, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic.
-the 3 meat places that are Spanish or Italian, perfect with the cheese board situation!
-great crackers – their crisps are a favorite but they have great savory and brioche toasts too.
-all of the dips! These could be a meal for me too. The bacon, cheddar, ranch one is amazing with potato chips. I also love the caramelized onion and the jalapeno artichoke.
-polenta, vodka sauce, dried mangoes, and the fruit bars are faves.
-everything but the bagel! (cut up some cucumber into slices, put a smear of laughing cow cheese on each, and sprinkle with the seasoning. PERFECT snack.)
-For frozen: pork gyoza, fire roasted corn, gnocchi (I love the red sauce one..I know people like the cauliflower one but this one is better!), pepperoni mac and cheese.
-chips! The yellow corn chips, pita chips, and reduced guilt potato chips are faves.
-Not a sparkling water fan at all, but spindrift is good! And definitely the $3 bottles of wine!
Megan says
I’m excited to try a few of your finds! Thanks for sharing. I love Trader Joes and some of my favorites are the Grapefruit hand soap, face wash, dark chocolate and mini mint stars (Christmas), their mousse cake (right now they have a big chocolate mouse cake in the shape of a heart, but they’re seasonal so…eggs for Easter, pumpkins for the fall, etc..), chocolate covered pretzels, Mediterranean hummus, Garlic Naan, Truffle cheese, the vanilla and chocolate chip sublime ice cream sandwiches, and the Kringle….you have to try the Kringle. It’s AMAZING! It’s another seasonal item. It’s typically pumpkin caramel Sept/Oct, Almond around Nov/Dec (my favorite), Pecan Feb/March/April, Raspberry in May. They’re all fantastic!
Caroline says
TJ’s Unexpected Cheddar is the best cheese on the planet.
Irene Økland says
I absolutely LOVE the power berries! I also buy the yellow lemon kitchen soap. It smells so, so good. Wish I had a Trader Joe’s nearby (I live in Norway….)
Cherie C says
Frozen steel cut oatmeal, fried rice, orange chicken and plain ? croissants Yum.
Gina says
I love their roasted red tomato soup. I make into a quick roasted red tomato soup with cooked chicken strips, 1 can black beans, drained, one bag of frozen sweet corn, and add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese last and heat till cheese is melted. YUMMY! I also like a new way recipe they had as a sample last week : one bag of frozen sweet potato gnocchi and one package of chicken apple Chardonnay smoked sausage . Slide sausage and fry till lightly brown in skillet. Add the package of gnocchi with 1/4 cup water. Heat till warmed and a sauce forms. Serves 3-4
Hanna says
We love their mandarin orange chicken! You can find it in the freezer section and it is oh so good!! I also get the organic brown rice (also found in freezer section) to go with it. You can microwave the rice for 3 min and you’re good to go! Steam some broccoli while you’re at it and you’ve got a great, quick dinner!
Jenn says
I love their Cruciferous Crunch bag mix (by the lettuce and spinach). I like to saute it for a few minutes and eat with some balsamic vinegar tossed in! Adding some grilled chicken for protein can make it a complete meal (although I have been known to just eat the veggies and call it a day haha). It is YUM!
Brea Withrow says
My husband loves their coffee. My kiddos love their animal crackers and mini chocolate chip cookies. They both come in a huge plastic container and it lasts us a while since we just give them a few at lunch or dinner (they are 3 and 4 so don’t eat much ha) At Christmas, we get their advent calendars too. They are a big hit!
Leah Reinemund says
You pretty much listed all of my favorites! One other thing for a cheese board is their truffle mustard! OH MY WORD! SO GOOD!!! It’s in a white jar usually near the almond butter etc (at least thats where it is at the Southlake one)
Kristen says
Their pizza dough is amazing!
allison says
pizza dough in the refrigerated section for only $1.19. Makes such great bread sticks or homemade pizza. Buy their pizza sauce too! It’s our very favorite and it last about a week past what the expiration says! Also their pesto in a jar is yummy!
Katie says
The frozen Mac n cheese, in the red box, so yummy for an occasional quick lunch. I bought the frozen French onion soup last time I was there and it was good too. Love the trail mix!
Therese Roberts says
We love Trader Joe’s, too! I use that French Brioche bread whenever I make your delicious Blueberry Overnight French Toast! For a cheese recommendation: the Asiago Cheese with Rosemary & Olive Oil is delicious! We pair it with their Multigrain Pita Crackers.
Susy says
Frozen oatmeal! If you can’t find it. . . . I bought it all!
Rachel says
The frozen brown rice is a game changer – 3 minutes in the microwave and it’s cooked perfectly!
Sara says
Yes!! Totally agree. And so good.
Jody says
I had to stop reading to make some toast! So yummy!
Robin says
Has anyone mentioned Cookie Butter?? Oh my! So delicious.
ruth says
I love Trader Joe’s! The only one near me is an hour and a half away and it’s always busy so I find I only grab my essentials and run!! But those essentials are the applewood smoked bacon, sweet and spicy jalapenos, marcona almonds and their European style plain yogurt. Other things I appreciate are their large bottles of olive oil and their enchilada sauce. My husband also loves their Ginger snaps, which are also some of the best I’ve had.
Dana says
My fave quick TJs dinner is pork gyoza pot stickers steamed with a tablespoon of their toasted sesame oil, and edamame. And the kringles. All of them!
Rachel says
For your cheese fix, you have to try their Unexpected Cheddar. My husband and I can easily finish the entire square. It’s both cheddar and parmesan, and it’s unbelievable. Their buratta cheese is great too. I often use it on top of their Cauliflower Crust for pizza. The crust is already made, you just have to throw it on a baking rack, on top of a baking sheet in the oven. It takes a little long to bake up because you have to bake both sides of it, but it’s delicious for a pizza fix. The chocolate-covered banana slices are delicious. I also like their chicken gyoza and the smaller chicken dumplings with cilantro. In the refrigerated pasta section: the butternut squash ravioli is my favorite. I eat it one a week, though I probably shouldn’t, but it’s SO good. The dried honeycrisp apples are delicious too. The whole bag is one serving. I just went to TJ’s yesterday, and 100 dollars later, I’m ready to go back and try more!
Mary Vigil says
Oh my, there is so much to love at TJ’s. I’m going to have to grab a few of your suggestions. Here is one that is a go to in the summer for a quick dip/appetizer that is just easy and delicious. 3 ingredients: TJ’s Lentils/Bruschetta mix/feta cheese, combine and serve with crackers. It is just heavenly. Here is a link to the recipe, but if you google it you will find it all over the web. Enjoy! https://www.eastewart.com/recipes-and-nutrition/quick-and-easy-lentil-feta-bruschetta-3-delicious-ways/
Tamra says
We love TJs. I don’t think anyone has mentioned the cowboy salsa and the corn salsa that come in jars. They are stocked by the chips. A good pantry staple.
Another easy inexpensive item are their ready to bags of pizza dough. It’s the best, and they offer white, wheat and herb. We have a Pizza Que and use it a lot.
I use TJs to stock my happy hour pantry. Haha Our kids are out of the house and when friends drop by for a drink at our house they know I can whip up some good snacks. Nuts, cheese, their crackers for starter but so many goodies in the frozen food section too.
Debbie says
OMG! I ? this post. I’m always overwhelmed in that store and never know what to buy. Mostly I just buy fruits and veggies so I am thrilled with your suggestions. I am heading over this afternoon. I also always buy their cards. Only $1.00! No wonder Hallmarks are all closing! ?
Beth Valenta says
Trader Joes is out favorite here is VA…my favorites are blue cheese dip with celery, their FONDUE is so easy and fun for a light dinner night with veggies, the salsa verde is my favorite when I make crockpot chicken tacos. I never leave without flowers, cards, and a new red wine reserve.
Casey says
I add Everything But the Bagel seasoning to my avocado toast & guacamole. Life changed. I love the Blood Orange Seltzer with the Young Living NingXia Red, so good!
Barbara Parnell says
I don’t buy a lot there, but the few things I do buy that I really enjoy are the mac & cheese with hatch chilies,cauliflower gnocchi, cauliflower stir fry, Frozen Multigrain Blend with Veggies, Broccoli & cauliflower veggie patties, the Maple leaf cookies,the mini chocolate chip cookies, and they have this mixture of green garbanzo beans,tomatoes,lentils and olive oil in the freezer section that is really good. I’m not a huge fan of their fresh produce because most of it is imported, so I tend to get that at my local farmer’s market as much as possible..but I have had the purple brussel sprouts, and they were good. The flowers are an added bonus.
Melissa P. says
I bought and tried the French bread for grilled cheese, but it was so thick the cheese wouldn’t melt, and the bread was starting to burn. How do you cook yours?
Ashlee N. says
You have to try the honey wheat pretzel sticks…so good! And the sweet savory and tart trek mix (white chocolate, dark chocolate, & peanut butter morsels,red raisins, golden raisins, almonds, cashews, & peanuts) we can’t get enough of it. Also, their basmati medley rice is a staple and their cauliflower fried rice (I add a little sriracha to spice it up)! They have the best coconut milk (sweet and unsweetened purple and green cartons in the pantry section) we use it in cereal, hot cocoa and sometimes baking. It’s seriously the best we have tried. I could go on and on with my Trader Joe’s faves!
Brandy says
Oh man, I LOVE Trader Joe’s! They have the best frozen veggies! I particularly love the carrot coins and julienned root veggies. I also love their mini croissants in the frozen section… I usually eat 1-2 of those every morning! I think my absolute favorite TJ deal is their premade pizza dough for only $1.19!!
Katie Hayes says
So much goodness at TJ!
Here are a few of our faves that weren’t mentioned in your list:
-COOKIE BUTTER! ??
– their shampoo is minty and wonderful (my husband and boys love using it)
-frozen fried rice and orange chicken is a great dinner to keep on hand in the freezer!
– TJ blueberry preserves. Amazing!
– all-seasoning salt
-olive oil
– Sara Bee Moscato (the BEST! And super affordable!)
-cheddar popcorn (my boys are obsessed)
-salted caramels
– snack bags with almonds and dark chocolate (perfect for travel!)
-they have a honey goat cheese (chèvre) that is wonderful!
-eggs!
-I always buy flowers
-the produce is wonderful!
Jen S says
We have a Trader Joe’s in the same mall as my hair salon so when i get my hair done, my family always knows there will be TJ goodies coming home with me! We love the frozen roasted corn, so good! Some of our other favorites are the veggie egg rolls (frozen), the jars of sliced peaches, I buy corned beef for St. Patrick’s day there since it is processed with no nitrates and other nasty chemicals, their store brand olive oil is a great deal, my youngest likes the frozen Mac and cheese for a quick snack and have you tried the maple leaf cookies (amazing!) and their Jojo cookies? The Jojo’s even have a holiday version that are out of this world.
jhaley says
Two unhealthy and extremely addictive additions for you: Cookie Butter sandwich cookies and Peppermint Hot Chocolate mix. I don’t have a Trader Joe’s nearby, but I literally pay my sister to ship them to me from Nashville. The hot chocolate is especially nice with a boatload of marshmallows and a Hallmark movie. Probably should be more embarrassed than I am to say this was how I spent every single night during Countdown to Christmas. Thinking I plan a road trip to a Trader Joe’s STAT!
Jen Lord says
The orange chicken and chicken gyoza in the freezer section are a-ma-zing!! I love their peach salsa, their tomato and roasted red pepper soup and their pita chips for all the yummy hummus!
Elizabeth Nadler says
TIRAMISU TORTE ❣️❣️❣️ It is a layer of sponge cake soaked in coffee, a rich mascarpone with chocolate bits, and topped with cocoa powder. It is so light and so much flavor in every bite. Always have one for dessert when having guests.?
Amy B says
Cruciferous crunch greens mix (in the bagged salad section) roasted with olive oil and everything but the bagel seasoning….so good! And the dark chocolate peanut butter cups…perfect little treat!
Rachel Tran says
Some of my favorites are their coconut chocolate covered almonds (on a shelf above freezer section), the kalamata hummus and in the fall, their pumpkin squash pasta sauce and pumpkin squash Mac and cheese (frozen)….delish!!
Ashli says
I love that kalamata hummus!!!!
Elena says
I love to get the mandarin orange chicken and vegetable samosas in the frozen section, the smoked chardonnay apple chicken sausage and southwest chopped salad.
Emily says
The caramel/cheddar popcorn mix is delicious!
Carley says
You are spot on about their cheeses! I personally love the cracked black pepper and the wine infused merlot! If I’m looking for a quick meal, I’ve been impressed with their mushroom risotto and fettuccine alfredo. I like to buy their applegate brand lunch meat there becusse it is WAY cheaper than anywhere else!!
Betsy says
Garlic Spread-Dip!!! I use it as a dip for roasted veggies and potatoes, a condiment for sandwiches, you name it. I cannot be without this stuff – I call it little dollops of heaven.
Katelyn Magerko says
The dark chocolate peanut butter cups! I put ours in our fridge and are great when I want something sweet or I’ll send as a special sweet treat in my kid’s lunches!
Sharon says
Ok can you educate those of us who are not familiar with Trader Joe’s what exactly it is? Is it a grocery store, a specialized grocery store or what makes it different from a normal grocery store. I live in Canada so we don’t have them so I can’t just quickly go and check it out myself, however, when I’m next in the States maybe its a place i need to go? Just wondering what it is exactly. Is it more expensive than a “normal” store? Thanks.
Leslie says
Sharon – TJ’s is a poor man’s Whole Foods we like to say. Their products are all under their own labels.
Sharon says
Thank you
Jan says
It is definitely not more expensive than a “normal ” grocery store and less expensive than Whole Foods. In a sense, I guess it’s specialized. Most of the products are a healthier choice but one has to read the label, especially on the frozen items.
Sara says
My kids love the party size meatballs. I also use these as an appetizer (with BBQ sauce and grape jelly in the slow cooker…so good!). Their frozen mac n cheese is legit! And we LOVE their variety pack of macarons (all of these are in the freezer section). We also love their pizza dough!
Sarah says
Some of our favs include: Chicken Cilantro Wontons {great as a side or to add to soup}, Sriracha Ranch, Carmelized Onion Dip {ah-mazing}, Thai Red Curry Sauce {so yummy over chicken meatballs and sticky rice}, coconut cashews.
Nancy Crain says
I use their MISO soup when I fix those Wontons. I heat up the soup, and put the won tons in and it is very good and low in WW points.
Tracy R. says
Carrot ginger dressing, cauliflower gnocchi, cauliflower rice, cauliflower pizza crust (be sure to bake 10 minutes on each side prior to adding toppings!) with skinny mozzarella cheese and dried mango are so good!
Kelley Sawyer says
Unexpected cheddar and the black pepper Toscano cheese! Actually at Christmas time they have a cinnamon toscano- and it is my fav.
I’ll eat the unexpected cheddar on a diced avocado for lunch sometimes.
I’m pretty sure the plaintain chips are W30 compliant.
Susan says
Our favorite EASY thing is the frozen Jasmine rice, it’s organic yummy and only 3 min in the microwave!! There is also a frozen asparagus risotto that is easy on the stove top and yummy!
Kristen says
My son just got his first job there over the summer and he is constantly bringing new stuff home to try. We LOVED the maple butter but it’s only a fall product. We just tried the new mini bries and they are amazing. We also really like the unexpected cheddar and the fromage pave. Their chcocolate chip, mint chip and vanilla ice creams are all amazing. I think it’s probably the best vanilla ice cream.
Kristyn says
Love me some Trader Joe’s!!!! I love the dark chocolate peanut butter cups and anything thing in the freezer section! They make great frozen pasta dinners! Just watch the sodium!
Lisa Robinson says
their unexpected cheddar block is AWESOME! Their meatloaf is so good and easy. The green salsa enchiladas in the refrigerator section are great for a lunch. Their ultra moisturizing hand cream is my favorite right now. It’s so soft and doesn’t leave my hands greasy. Those are just a few of the staples at my house and I’ll definitely try some of what you posted. I just love me some trader joes!
Cristy says
Your suggestions look great! Unfortunately I don’t have a Trader Joe’s nearby. Is there another type green juice that you would recommend that I may be able to find at my grocery store?
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
This post makes me so happy too! I LOVE TJ’s and I see we have some of the same favorites!! I highly recommend the frozen burritos, especially the veggie one! It has a nice spice to it and is such a easy lunch or dinner when I want to go meatless! TJ’s Mint/Morrocan green tea is the best thing ever! The guiltless popcorn and the dark chocolate almonds are my favorite snacks. I also love buying their frozen waffles and bagged rolled oats as easy breakfasts to have on hand! Oh and their frozen chicken fried rice!! So good. Gosh I could buy the whole store lol. Great post!!!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Stacy says
MINI Ice cream cones! My kids love them and they are the perfect size! Honey goat cheese, peanut butter granola, the perfect bars, dried cherries (no sugar added!)… so many great options. Hard to go wrong with TJs
Ruth says
The mini ice cream cones really are so great!
Jen says
We don’t have a TJ near by but I just have to say, Those chocolate filled croissants are EVERYTHING. SO good. I am going to need them ASAP.
Susanne says
My favorite thing is the Truffle Marcona Almonds. They are the best!!
Shari says
Yes, these are amazing!!
Erin Pieracci says
In the beauty section you MUST BUY the Argan oil and their body butter (usually comes in vanilla but they have seasonal scents). Mix body butter with a few drops of argan oil. Your skin will be SO SOFT and smell unbelievable. Not for face- just body.
Crissy says
Yaaas love the body butter.
Erin Pieracci says
Also, you all need to follow Trader Joe’s List on Instagram. They post new products, faves, etc.
Sandy says
Here is something interesting I learned my last trip to TJ. At the customer service desk they will print out a list of gluten free items they carry or organic items. Maybe other lists too, I’m not sure but that is really cool!
I love their Kringle. It is amazing and you’ll be sorry to know about this! Also those frozen chocolate croissants are amazing! We love the almond ones too. You set them on a baking sheet and let them thaw on the counter overnight. They are so good and you’ll be sorry to know this too!
Their prices on frozen, organic fruit is pretty good too though not always the best price depending on if you go to Costco or buy on sale at say a Sprouts.
Karen says
Oh my ~ where do I start? The pineapple salsa and roasted garlic salsa are our favorites! I use their green salsa verde (2jars) to slow cook pork. Frozen items ~ their white corn ~ the sweetest! the little Bambino pizzas are great (4pk) kids love em. Their French toast and waffles are great! All of their Chinese food. Their hash browns….and shrimp! Their coffee ice cream! I rarely find something I don’t like…..love it there! My newest love is their toasted sesame dressing!
Ruth says
I really love the Herb & Spice Popcorn! Comes in a green bag and is in the aisle with the chips and other bags of popcorn – SO GOOD! I also love the coconut and shea butter hair mask.
Mandy says
*Unexpected cheese
*frozen Mini Croissants
*TJ chocolate milk
*handmade tortillas
*cinnamon graham crackers
*blue corn tortilla chips
*spinach & chive fettuccini
❤️ Trader Joe’s
Becky B says
Get the Lemon curd, it is delicious! It is great plain on crackers or pour it over a goat cheese log (also bought there) and put shelled pistachios (bought there too) over the top. I bring this a lot to gatherings with a box of crackers and everyone devours it and asks for the recipe. So easy and yummy.
Abby says
I love their fig and olive crackers! They’re in a purple box!
Mary Anne Duke says
We love the vegetable fried rice. I add chicken, soy sauce and sesame oil. Makes a meal for two…yum!!
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
Why does Trader Joe’s have to be all the way across town!?! I am never really over that way and never think about it but right now it’s ALL I CAN THINK ABOUT. But it’s also 12:30 and my stomach is growling. So that doesn’t help. haha Jumping over to your ravioli recipe right now! Yumm!!
That Inspired Chick
Kim says
Kettle Corn!! Dark Chocolate Peanut butter Cups!! Shrimp Tempura! Valentine’s Day Gummy Xoxo’s!! Cookie Butter!! Sourdough Bread!! ?
Gardner Story says
Their frozen items are great– orange chicken is my husband’s favorite! I also had a margarita pizza that I loved. They have dark chocolate covered peanut butter cups and they are the best treat I’ve ever had. HANDS DOWN. I haven’t tried much of their cheese but I’ve heard their cheese is the best!! I love their cards and flowers. g
Stephanie Price says
If you haven’t tried the TJ’s Honey Mango shave cream you must!!!!! It is the BEST EVER!!! I have been using it for years and every time I go I stock up on the stuff!!! 🙂
Sara F says
I love the truffle chips, too! I bought their truffle Alfredo and did not care for it, so I don’t recommend that. One other thing that I love that I don’t see listed here is their Chai Latte mix… YUM and their Cinnamon Croissant bread. It makes the BEST french toast!
Diana says
There’s so much to love about TJ’s, including the PRICES! My husband and I went this weekend and got ingredients for 4 meals and some drinks, for less than $40. You heard me right. I also love buying flowers there because they have a great selection and are SO affordable! Some of my favorite items are the frozen cauliflower rice (mix with frozen veggies, their pre-cooked sliced chicken and seasonings for chicken fried rice), caramelized onion dip, rosemary marcona almonds, chai tea latter mix (during Fall they have PUMPKIN), and so many others!
Marissa says
Cream Cheese brioche pastries (found in the freezer section). To. Die. For.
Stacey says
So many good finds already mentioned.. chiming in on all the cheeses, esp the light brie, brie bites and goat cheese bites. Those are perfect to add to a salad that i’m bringing to work. chicken tikka masala- all the indian lunches really. The chicken sausages are great for quick pastas, frittatas or on a pizza. Pizza dough. Ravioli. MOCHI!!!!! cannot believe no one said mochi, those things are freaking delicious and perfectly portioned. all the chocolates, edamame.
Leslie says
My TJ’s faves:
– Blueberry Green Tea in the bottle
– Dried mango (unsugared type for me, but the kind that is sweetened is highly addictive!)
– Balela (garbanzo bean salad – expensive but worth it)
– Dried Cherries (add to yogurt, salads, granola, or just eat by the handful!). I get the ones that start with “M” but can’t remember how to spell it. Something like “Montmory “.
– Dark chocolate pudding (in the yogurt section)
– Triple Ginger cookies
– Lemon or Coconut wafer cookies
– Anything with dark chocolate
I could go on and on but that’s good for now! BTW- My TJ’s is more than 1/2 an hour away and not in my town. So I have to pack a cooler with ice packs and make the trip. Worth it ?!
Lisa Sears says
Unexpected Cheddar is a must! The fried rice is super easy and yummy! I love their Antioxidant Face Serium. And of course the flowers and wine! Best price on both!
Audrey says
Cauliflower Gnocchi for the win … and TJ’s Garlic Olive Oil. Mmmmmm
Kayla A Bruce says
Love this whole thing! I also don’t go often cause it’s not on my regular route, but I think I need to try. I was just wondering where to get a good green juice, so this is perfect timing. My staples at TJ are the GF Chocolate Chip Cookies. Right amount of salt, right amount of sweet. I also love the dried mangos. Perfect to snack on any time of day!
Stacy says
My Trader Joe’s told me that those scallop trio crackers are seasonal and won’t be back in until November.
Krista says
Roasted red pepper tomato soup, potstickers, frozen broccoli (it’s all florets), and mint chocolate chip ice cream sandwiches.
Dena says
Great post! I love TJ’s and do the majority of my shopping there. I love it even more because every.single.employee is so so nice! I was checking out once and the cashier (William) was telling me about these new protein bars they carry near the produce – I hadn’t heard of them. He called another employee over and said “please bring me 3 diff’t flavors of the protein bar”. The guy brought them over and William asked me to pick one and open it and try it. It was delicious and now I keep them stocked in my fridge for emergencies. It’s called The Perfect Bar and my favorite flavor is Dark Chocolate PB…..tastes a bit like cookie dough.
Kelsee says
Great haul! We love their:
-Dark chocolate peanut butter cups
-Bite Sized Everything Crackers
-Riced Cauliflower (perfect for making rice and so much easier than ricing it yourself!)
-All of their cheese! Literally best place to get cheese
-Butternut Squash/Corn Ravioli (sounds weird but oh so good!)
-Frozen dinner Mac n Cheese (so bad but sooo good)
-Corn and Chile Salsa (love using this to spice up taco meat)
-Salad Bags! Love them and so affordable
Rachel says
I love TJ posts!! They are so fun! Can’t wait to read the comments too 😀
Sherry says
I can’t really add anything except that for those of you who don’t have a TJ’s nearby, I’m sorry.
Candice Ibarra says
Cookie Butter! Especially the cookies and creme flavored one 🙂
Kelly says
I have never seen the chocolate croissants before! Those will be in my cart this week for sure! Thank you for sharing!
Christy says
We love the pepper jelly as well, and always have a jar in the pantry. Seasonally, TJ also carries pumpkin butter–delsih! Trader Joe’s sells a great organic coconut aminos that I use when cooking for my daughter who is allergic to soy sauce.
Katie M Stuen says
Obsessed with Trader Joes and I have saved so much money by switching from Vons/ Ralphs/ Albertsons to strictly shopping at Trader Joes. I love their Chicken Jalapeno, red pepper sausage, orange chicken, Already diced onions, pre cooked Bacon, citrus body wash, chili and lime chicken burgers and unexpected cheddar.
Elizabeth says
I always buy EVOO or Sunflower oil at TJs and always buy several packages of dried mangos (unsulfered/unsweetened), Sirarcha Ranch dressing (on the shelf section by the spices), Cilantro dressing (in the fridge section by the other cold dressings), Frozen bell pepper blend, frozen cauliflower fried rice, frozen chili lime chicken burgers and other frozen fish… among several of the items you mentioned!
Laura says
I absolutely love TJ! I love their pita chips, spinach dip, the BBQ chicken salad (prepackaged), their orange juice, granola, granola bars, little chocolate chip cookies, almond croissants, shrimp tempura, and my husband likes their coffee beans.
Ashley says
I am SHOCKED that no one else mentioned the frozen hash brown patties! Love them for our big weekend breakfasts, and there’s always a battle for the last one. We let them crisp up in the oven a little longer than the directions say and they taste like mashed potatoes in the middle! It’s also worth mentioning that TJ’s really brings their A-game when it comes to seasonal and holiday items, EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
Jenna says
My fave things at Trader Joe’s are the cauliflower gnocchi (in freezer aisle and so good with some herbs and browned butter), red Australian licorice, Oatmeal Cranberry Cookie dippers, Pita crackers, and carmelized onion cheese (in a block perfect for the meat and cheese boards!!!)
Tiffani says
Their tomato soup with a little pesto and parmesan cheese added in. Also, their guilt free mac and cheese is so yummy.
Samantha Barnett says
•Dark chocolate peanut butter cups
•caramels (hubby’s fav)
•riced broccoli
•frozen French green beans
•frozen sliced peppers
•frozen brown rice
•frozen turkey burgers
•cookie butter
•cookie butter/chocolate swirl (son’s fav)
•coconut body butter
•facial wipes
•laundry detergent
There’s so much more. Love me some TJ’s
Lisa De says
Try the pub cheese! The Kringles are seasonal but so so good with coffee or tea. They have the best flour tortillas that bubble up when you warm them in a skillet. The vegetable fried rice is so good too!
Dana Jackson says
Love this post and seeing all of the TJ faves!! I don’t have one very close so I stock up when I go! A few of my faves are: Vegetable Bird Nests in frozen section SO good! Sparkling pink lemonade, the canned artichoke hearts are the best for dips and casseroles, etc., love all the same spices as you, cauliflower gnocchi, and the asparagus risotto!! Now I need to go to TJ’s!!
Emily says
Unexpectedly Sharp Cheddar by TJ’s cheese… EVERY party we go to people ask where it’s from! It’s always a favorite.
Ashley says
Just some of my favorites….
-Sweet potato fries (seriously, I have to make two bags for dinner they are so yummy
-TJ Greek Yogurt, I’m not a fan of Greek yogurt but I tried these and I was hooked!
-Basalmic Steak Tips – Again, I’m not a steak fan but this is the most tender steak and its so easy to make in a skillet for a quick meal. Pair the steak tips with…
-TJ Frozen Fettuccine Alfredo!!! OH MY WORD. This is amazing. Addicting. You won’t regret it.
-BBQ Teriyaki Chicken – Super quick meal, but delicious.
-Manderin Chicken – Another quick easy meal
-Jasmine Rice – Best Jasmine Rice ever!!!!
-Peanut Butter Cups – Both Dark Chocolate and Milk Chocolate. Also put these in your freezer, they will also keep you from eating the entire container 😉
-I find that their fresh produce is better than my major chain grocery stores, their bananas are priced well!
Jan says
Their bread and butter pickles are to die for.
Kacy says
Their salsa!
Crissy Fabian says
Apple Cider Jam. Pumpkin spice tortilla chips (seasonal) with the spicy Peach Salsa Actually I think the apple cider jam is seasonal too but still in my store. Sweet plantains. Specaloos cookie butter on Cinnamon graham crackers. The caramel popcorn can’t remember exactly what it is called. Body butter. All the liquid hand soaps especially grapefruit. Tear free face wash. I can literally eat the full bag of cheese puffs lol. I buy one for me and one for my husband. Cheese flavored air we call it.
Liz Even says
Hey Shay!! We love Trader Joe’s!!! Some things we love
-flowers -whatever is cheap and catches my eye
– butter-such a great price and delicious
-organic chicken breast
-ground turkey because grace doesn’t do red meat and they have great quaility for price
-nuts-David is into raw nuts and they have a mix
of raw nuts. Great mix and great price.
-we do love their almond butter and 21 spice
– their Aragon oil in the beauty section is AMAZING. I wear waterproof because all my emotions come out my eyes and it takes it right off and in the winter I use it all over my face and neck. Great price.
-cheeses-I am with you. Are amazing
-burritos and salads. All amazing
-we’ve had great luck with their fruit.
Love love them.
Dawn says
Oh Gosh! Definitely have to come back and read all the comments!
Some current faves:
Juices: To the Power of 7 Green Organic Juice Blend & Organic Pomegranate Juice
Desserts: Dark Chocolate covered bananas (just discovered!); (Strawberry mochi is nice too); sipping chocolate (holiday fave);
Frozen: Seafood paella, veggie masala burgers, riced cauliflower, had the shrimp tacos in the past, they were decent, reduced guilt mac and cheese lol
Past staples: Multigrain bread and yes, the french brioche is incredible! enjoyed it with their Raspberry Jam; Greek yogurt with honey. Marinara sauce. Celery!
So much more I can’t think of now, but it’s hard to go wrong at TJs.
Kim says
-Cilantro Lime dressing (refrigerator section). It’s great as a sauce for fish tacos and also great on salads.
-Hatch Valley Salsa. It’s green and has just enough spice.
-Mandarin Orange Chicken
-Potstickers & sauce
-Veggie fried rice
Mary Flynn says
Love that pepper jelly! Haven’t seen charcuterie boards in a couple of years, glad to see someone making one!
Jo says
Cookie Butter!!!
And in the fall they have an amazing selection of all things pumpkin!!!
Ali J Bishop says
The HERB POPCORN!!! <3 <3 <3 also, the Sriracha BBQ sauce is incredible, hot and spicy dill pickles, and vegan oatmeal chocolate chip cookies (so soft)
Debbie Lang says
Love Trader Joe’s. Favorites the ‘corn relish’ perfect on tacos or fajitas, and the ‘mixed nut’ butter (no peanuts) so it’s whole 30 compliant it is so good. You can’t beat their produce – broccoli slaw; crunchfied salad, sweet potato strips, riced cauliflower; stir fry mixes, etc. Freezer section – turkey corn dogs; orange chicken, chili lime chicken burgers; jasmine rice; tamales, cauliflower pizza crust. Spices galore, raw nuts, coconut chips, dried fruit.
Andrea says
If you are a gluten free ??♀️ Dairy free ??♀️ Person like me and you grew up in a heavy heavy Italian home you may or may not have stopped in your tracks and did some literal praise hand emojis right then and there … what did I find … the cauliflower gnocchi…friends it’s amazing!!! Takes likes real gnocchi!!!
Cindy Vernon says
TJ’s Rasberry Jam is very yummy. My kids love their 6 pack of light Kettle Corn. I grab a bag when I leave for school pickup to snack on. Also, TJs dried nuts are very good. I have a jar full of their roasted almonds to grab a hand full for a quick snack.
Sandra says
What do you use the Chili Lime seasoning on? I have some and I haven’t used it since I don’t know what to put it on.
Mix and Match Mama says
Chicken and fish! We use it a lot during the summer when we grill and smoke our meats. It’s good on shrimp too!
Stephanie Anderson says
You have got to try their Cookie Butter. Seriously it’s like a ginger snap cookie but the consistency of peanut butter. If you go back to where they give out samples ask to try it, I promise you will be buying a jar every week.
Maggie Jensen says
Ghost pepper salsa, the orange chicken, fried rice, chimichurri rice, peanut butter chocolate candies, party meatballs, but my hands down favorite is their taco seasoning! It has the best flavor and natural ingredients!
KIM T says
Oh gosh, love me some Trader Joe’s! Where do I begin? Love the flowers, the organic Fuji apples are the best! I love the sour cream and onion corn puffs so much! THE dark chocolate peanut butter cups are amazing!, the organic cherry tomatoes are super sweet and I eat them like candy! Moroccan mint tea bags are nice and refreshing.
Ashley says
My two favorite combos:
TJ’s Bruschetta mix, Feta, Orzo – mix them together to make a delicious pasta salad!
And
Middle Eastern Flatbread, Grilled Chicken, Tzaziki and Feta – perfect easy lunch!
Nicole says
I live almost 6 hours from the nearest Trader Joe’s so if I know I will be near one I bring giant insulated bags packed with ice and I stock up! I have it down to a science!
My staples are:
• ORANGE CHICKEN! I buy 20 bags at a time and store them in the deep freezer. It’s our favorite!
• Coffee concentrate
• Peanut Butter Cups
• Maple Cookies
• Lite Mozzarella
• Tomato and Roasted Red Pepper Soup
• Dried Mini Ravioli and Pesto Tortellini
• Lobster Ravioli
• Vodka Sauce
• Spinach Artichoke Dip
• Face Serum and Moisturizer and…..
• Spiced Cider
I wish I had a TJ’s close by!
Nikki says
Love, love, LOVE the Rainbow Wrap…I could eat one every.single.day! Also love their cards..I stock up every time I go. And the fresh flowers. And the rose. And the cheese!
Sarah says
I didn’t have time to read all the comments (but I’ll have to circle back to them another time!!) but my top suggestion is: COOKIE BUTTER!!!!!!! Delicious on crackers, pretzels, or just plain on a spoon. 😉 SO YUMMY!!!
Robin says
My kids love their little frozen pizzas (my husband likes them too!). And my son has a sesame allergy so we buy the frozen Mandarin Chicken to make at home with the frozen Jasmine Rice. So good! And no sesame seeds!
Lauren says
We love TJ’s Tzatziki creamy garlic cumcumber dip…it is amazing on a wrap with grilled chicken.
Barbara Parnell says
Oh! I forgot…the marcona almonds with rosemary are very good and at Christmas ,they sell crackers enrobed in milk chocolate sprinkled with toffee..completely addictive! Glad it’s seasonal or I’d be in serious trouble!
Elizabeth Takla says
OMG I love TJs. It is a madhouse though. And my cart is a madhouse afterwards, too. I love to get:
Easy dinners:
Fresh Pizza dough + TJ sauce, etc
Orange Chicken Frozen meal
Chicken Dumplings with the Gyoza dipping sauce with a bag of frozen vegetable rice for dinner! YUM.
I also adore to get their scallions and honeycrisp apple bags, I think they’re a great value and quality.
All the wine. All of it. My favorite is their Vino Verde in the tall green bottles.
Molly Harper says
Please tell me you buy their cookie butter! It’s the most delicious dip/spread! 🙂
Jennifer Doublesin says
So many of my favorites already listed, but love the new ideas, too! The chocolate croissants are st the top of my list! Try the frozen French Toast too (right next to croissants)—easy, quick breakfast on school days! Also fun for the charcuterie board are the grilled artichoke halves (jar), olive tapenade, and sweet and spicy pecans (also delicious sprinkled on a mixed green salad with fresh strawberries!). The Soyaki sauce (regular and tropical pineapple one) are delicious for a quick marinade on grilled salmon. I always have a bag of their sliced almonds to sprinkle in salads, or in other recipes, too. My kids of course love the Mandarin Chicken and Veggie fried rice, and devour the mini chocolate chip cookies (in tub). The 4 cheese ravioli (refrigerated) easy and good, too! If you like spicy, try the chicken andouille sausage! Delicious added to gumbo or shrimp and grits! Glad someone mentioned the Chai tea latte mix—delicious, too! My list could go on and on, but headed to TJs now!
Tins Spork says
SYRAH SOAKED CHEDDAR! CANDIED PECANS! FRESH GROWING HERBS! GREETING CARDS! FLOWERS….I could go on and on, but you are probably getting tired of reading ALL the comments. 😉
Ashley says
I love TJ’s! Some of my favorites are:
– Mandarin Chicken
– the root vegetable chips
– Hatch Chili Mac and Cheese (really, all of their frozen mac and cheese is good)
– lite shredded mozzarella
– Miso Ginger Broth (great with the Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings or the mini chicken wontons!)
– Chicken Fajita meal (in the fresh meals section)
– Cauliflower Gratin and Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole (sadly, these are seasonal)
– Tomato and Roasted Red Pepper soup
– Garlic Naan
– And I LOVE buying fresh flowers from TJ’s! They are inexpensive and last a long time.
– Spiced Cider
– Roasted frozen corn (so much better in casseroles and soups than regular frozen corn)
– Just Grilled Chicken Strips
Jenna says
We love making homemade pizza and they sell balls of dough that make it super easy and fun! The whole wheat isn’t great but the plain and herb one are delicious!
Jenna says
We love making homemade pizza and their dough balls make it so fun and easy! The whole wheat isn’t great but the plain and herb ones are delicious!
Susie says
Unexpected Cheddar Cheese and caramelized onion dip ?
Shari says
They have so many amazing things, but the dark chocolate sea salt caramels are my absolute favorite!
Courtney says
I was introduced to their lavender dryer bags that also double as a carpet deodorizer – smells wonderful! My mom is Gluten Free and loves their GF Mac and Cheese. Cauliflower Tabbouleh, chicken breasts in refrigerated section, turkey dogs, frozen Basmati rice, mango shave lotion, mini frozen tacos, frozen rellenos are always on my stock up list!
Danielle says
New spice they have called “Mushroom and Company” is VERY yummy- unique. Love it on my roasted potatoes or tofu.
Mary says
Thanks Shay, Love this post! My top 3 faves right now…. the TJ’s banana chocolate chip power muffins are packed with protein but taste like banana bread. I always grab 2 packages but they don’t have many preservatives so I keep one on hand in the freezer. The Carne Asada (in the meat section) is similar to a flank steak. Put it on the grill and it makes the best fajitas!! And I CANNOT stop eating the TJ’s lemon curd….it’s so good! I put a dallop on coconut flavored Greek yogurt with some granola and fresh raspberries or blueberries….yum!! ?
Emilee Baldwin says
Creamy Toscano soaked in syrah cheese! MY FAV!
Dina says
We LOVE Trader Joe’s!!
* Avocado oil (Costco has a better price though)
*Organic Blueberry Jam
*Cheese Fondue
*Dried Apricots
*Candy Cane Peppermint Tea
*Greek Yogurt
*Frozen Brown Rice
*Mandarin chicken
*Pizza dough
*Kringle bread (during the holidays)
LOVE Trader Joe’s!!!
Sarah B. says
You MUST try the Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches! So delicious and the perfect size. I always stock up on them.
Cara says
I do all my grocery shopping at TJs. Everyone hit most of the favorites and staples but was surprised no one mentioned the breakfast chicken sausage. It’s a staple in our house. My kids won’t eat any other sausage now!
Julie says
1) the lemon cookie candle! Smells amazing
2) baked cheese crisps. They’re like little Parmesan crisps good alone or as croutons in a salad. We use in our Caesar salads.
3) the unsweetened vanilla almond milk
4). Believe it or not, they have the best frozen potato pancakes! A lifesaver as those are a pain to make
Jennifer says
I alway have the frozen jasmine rice pouches on hand, so quiz and easy to make tons of dishes or I sometimes just eat with butter, salt and pepper.
Onion feta bites are beyond amazing. The goat cheese covered with fruit(seasonal) is so good. The fig crisps are a staple item in my pantry. Lime chicken burgers, yum! Have you tried the buiscuts and cinnamon rolls in the pop tubes- the best around and a great go to for the weekends or a quick breakfast during the week!
Caitlin says
I love Trader Joes! A few things we like to get are the sourdough bread, frozen oatmeal, tea tree shampoo/conditioner, lavender scrub, soy crackers, rainbow trail mix, semi sweet chocolate chips, frozen brown rice, bruschetta, roasted red pepper tomato soup, vodka pasta sauce, cheese ravioli (kind you boil), Raisin Bran, shredded mini wheats, orange flavored cranberries, veggie straws, seltzer water and so much more!
Kelly says
Love these kind of posts!
Some that haven’t been mentioned: frozen jasmine rice, their Siracha ranch is life! I drizzle it over a bowl with chicken, sweet potato, broccoli and feta cheese.
All their frozen cauliflower products, mushroom truffle pizza. – my kids LOVE! And their Italian truffle cheese is so darn good!!
Arielle Cinalli says
Have you ever tried the Fig Butter? Its in the jam and jelly section, it is sooooo good on toast or to put on your cheese board! Its so yummy on brie or a sharp cheddar! Also their frozen brown rice and frozen quinoa is life changing!
Felicia Nguyen says
I used to drive 1.5 hrs every month to do a HUGE SHOPPING TRIP but now they have one near me. So I do my weekly shopping there now. I used to spend $500-600.00 per week …now my weekly grocery is less than $300.00. I did a post on Trader Joe’s also on my blog..I LOVE THEIR FLOWERS and HERBS plants. The BASIL is huge!! They have the BEST orchid prices in town.
I buy the Mac n cheese (guilt free one..blue box),pork potstickers, pork buns, party size meat ball, frozen spinach dip. They have this yellow curry in a jar..you add the party meatball, the bottle of yellow curry and 1 can of the coconut cream in a crockpot ..low for 4 hours and it’s AMAZING!!! You can eat it over their jasmine rice.
Love the coconut oil packet!! Best yo travel with..especially if u r cooking on vacation..like when u rent a cabin or have a RV!! They also sell coconut oil spray can/bottle!!
The SPICY PEANUT dressing in the vegetable section is so yummy!! TASTE like satay …so good if u use a little on your chicken kabob!!
They have the best coffee beans..and u can grind it there also. The pita chip with their salmon dip and spinach dip in the refrigerator section.
Large EGG..$1.99 a dozen!!
They have this SPREADABLE cream cheese!!! Amazing ..goes great with the GARLIC bagel!!
They have the gelato right now..amazing!! Their mango bars are yummy. Sweet and spicy jalapeño in a jar!!!
They have this peach Bellini n mango drink (alcohol section) cheap 5.99 and it’s is yummy. Great for party!!
Brie in individual size (great for kids lunch) they have this chicken pate in the cheese section!!! TO DIE FOR!! I can’t list it all!! I have so many!!
Season items: they have this rose lotion right now!! Smell heavenly!!
C Matt says
You received so many great replies & product info! In case this hasn’t been posted yet, here’s a link to TJ’s 10th Annual Customer Choice Awards: https://www.traderjoes.com/digin/post/10th-customer-choice-winners
Most of these have already been mentioned, but it’s an interesting list!
Sara Robinson says
The rose water face mist is my go to every morning – LOVE it. And power berries are my kryptonite. 🙂
Stephanie says
Hi!
Japanese fried rice (I add a few eggs to this, so so good)
Honey yougurt (the best thing on my list)
Pasty pups (love these)
Rolled oats
Cream yogurts ( bananas & cream etc.)
Carne Asada (on the grill)
Kefir
Sesame Sticks
Corn tamales (freezer section)
Orange chicken
DG says
I don’t know that I saw these on the list—–the Mini Chicken Cilantro Won-tons in the freezer section. They are perfect to eat on their own, or mix them with a stir fry. And they are not a lot of points on Weight Watchers!
Jordan Haney says
The unexpected cheddar from TJ is amazing. It would be a great addition to your charcuterie board. I’ve never had someone over that didn’t love it.
Michael says
Can i be honest? I NEVER shop at TJ’s because the store is always CRAZY packed, the parking lot is a nightmare, and the whole event completely frustrates me. Maybe I should check when they open and go FIRST THING. People are always finding great stuff and I have a bit of FOMO because it’s a good price
Karen says
We love Trader Joe’s for our groceries (and wine) but get very sad/mad/ cranky when they discontinue items that we love and rely on…but as they say…it’s just the nature of the store.
I buy their fresh flowers weekly and many of their seasonal gift items at the holidays…
Carrie A says
Wow the comments might be better than the post (which is great as well!) One thing that may be easily overlooked – I LOVE the TJ Stevia packets for my butter coffee or tea. A little goes a long way, great if trying to cut down on sugar.
Sue K. says
* Margarita mix
* Green goddess dressing
*chocolate mint mini stars (I note they have chocolate mini hearts now for VD)
*hand lotion ($4.99 – blue/red/silver tube comes in a box)
*organic tortilla chips
*salsa verde
*lemon cookie candle
*fresh flowers
*Kalamata olive hummus
Jeanine says
Oh my, so many great ideas here – thank you! We love TJ’s mango chutney on any of the Indian food in the frozen section. Also, love the Churned wine, which is a lot like Butter, but less than half the price!
Beth says
I have GOT to mention their ice cream!!!! Their chocolate ice cream is the best ever, so rich and delicious. Their coffee ice cream has little tiny bit of coffee bean and it’s the best ever. Also the tea section is great! I love dark black tea so I do two tea bags of their Irish Breakfast tea, tastes just like when I was in Ireland. Other teas are great too.
Alex L. says
You have to try the Unexpected cheddar! My favorite cheese of all time!
Jaime says
You have to try the frozen peppers onions and potatoes. They are the best breakfast potatoes ever!
Michelle Parsons says
I have you tried unexpected cheddar? It is SO good – my favorite cheese they sell! It’s like a combination of cheddar and Parmesan!
Mix and Match Mama says
I just did thanks to you guys!!!!