Hey, hey, hey!
What better way to kick off a Monday than with a Trader Joe’s post!!
I did my first “what I buy at Trader’s Joe’s” post back in February. You can see it…
…right HERE.
I still swear by all of these items, and we continue to buy them over and over again, but as the seasons change and you guys give me more recommendations, we’re now buying even more great stuff! I try and hit Trader Joe’s about once a week to every 10 days. I still do my “main” grocery shopping for household staples at my neighborhood store, but now supplement with TJ.
Today, I’m showing you some of the new things we’ve been buying. Of course, I want to know what else I should be throwing in my cart!!
A full cart and happy heart.
Here’s what’s been coming home with me from Trader Joe’s lately…
I love a slaw and this one here is a keeper! Add on whatever dressing you like and it’s delish!
Sheaffer insisted I buy this and now, I can’t stop. It’s this delicious mango sauce that we like to use when grilling chicken. The picture probably doesn’t do it justice because the pouch is large (not Applesauce size…like much larger). You could do a million different things with it, but we like to put it on chicken and then throw it on the grill. Easy!
Just buy it.
YES, YES, YES, YES!!!
Anytime they have truffle cheese, I buy it. Yessssssssssss!
They have really great fruit for smoothies! I like to get the tropical flavors this time of year.
Guys! Have you had their Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips yet?! Try it with their fresh pico! You will love both!!
I’m not really a cookie person (I’d rather have that cheese or bacon dip up there), but I really love these!! I bought them for my kids, but I have to say, that strawberry creme filing makes me happy too!
I looooooove this tartar sauce!! The dill and jalapeño make it so much better than any other store bought brand I’ve tried!
Yes, yes and YES. You will love this dried mango and your charcuterie board will instantly be elevated with the addition of these two nuts!
These were both new purchases for me (I’m pretty sure they’re seasonal items), but since taking the pic, I’ve been using them. Guys, that coconut body butter is fantastic!! It smells like you’re on vacation and it really moisturizes! And every time I use that hand soap, it makes me happy. It smells so fresh!
Trader Joe’s has the prettiest flowers at the most affordable prices.
I love both of these!! This is a very typical lunch for me on weekdays.
This too!
I talked about this shrimp just last week when I shared this recipe…
…this is now the only frozen shrimp I buy. When I went last week, I bought four bags!
I buy the hazelnut flavor too!
Whew!
Also, don’t forget…if you haven’t tried any of these recipes, you should…
The famous Trader Joe’s Meatballs and this one…
…Quick Trader Joe’s Gnocchi with Meat Sauce or…
…my Quick Ravioli Ragu!
Plus, see all of my other favorite TJ picks…
Okay, what are you buying this time of year at Trader Joe’s! Friends, I need to know so that I can add it to my cart!! Please comment and share!!
Happy Monday! I can’t wait to read your suggestions!
Becca says
We love getting there already seasoned spatchcock chicken quick and easy dinner!
Erika Slaughter says
Okay, now I want to head to Trader Joe’s TODAY! Maddie made a lemon cake that she said is a seasonal item at Trader Joe’s…came with the icing and everything-it was SO GOOD!
Eileen says
That Bacon Cheddar Ranch dip is the best! Just so good. Some of our other favorites are:
– pre-made salads – super easy for lunch.
– frozen Orange Chicken – quick and easy dinner on a busy night
– regular fries and sweet potato fries
– frozen rainbow cauliflower
– frozen green beans
– cheese sticks
– Rainbow’s End trail mix
– strawberry applesauce pouches
– bacon
– shredded hash browns
Narci says
I’m so intrigued by it all! I need to run by Trader Joe’s ASAP! What fun!
Tish Ferry says
Gosh, these posts make me wish we lived near a Trader Joe’s! I do order their seasonings off Amazon because you can’t go wrong with Chili Lime and Everything But the Bagel! I’ll have to grab some of those chips the next time I am near one. They sound delicious! Simply Tish
Cynthia says
You have to try the blueberry vanilla goat cheese with the lemon thin cookies/crackers! Perfect for a spring/summertime cheese board!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh that sounds so good!!
Mary Anne says
* Bite size Everything Crackers – yum!
* Organic Creamy Cashew Fiesta Dip
* Organic Spicy Avocado Hummus
* Spanakopita – rectangular box, buy it every time!
* King Pao chicken on their stir fry cauliflower rice
* Umami seasoning blend
* Green onions fresher than anywhere else
* Unexpected Cheddar Cheese
* Spicy Jalapeno chicken sausage
* Hatch Valley Salsa
* Miso Ginger broth, with Mini Chicken & Cilantro Wontons
*Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups
* Bagged Baby Spinach – lasts longer than most, when air is compressed out
* Winter Wake up Tea (seasonal)
* Canned Turkey Chili
Many more, but that’s a long enough list. I’ve given up on their breads, as they mold too quickly.
Nicole says
Do you not use the dressing in the salad packet?! Also, what does a day of your eats look like? Thanks!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Sometimes, and then sometimes, add another one depending on what we’re eating.
Ann Thompson says
Check out the frozen section with burritos and enchiladas. We have never had one we didn’t love. Different variety available. This makes a quick dinner on one of “those” nights.
Alexis deZayas says
The new jerk style plantain chips are incredible!!
Karen says
Yes, the slaw is AH-mazing!! If you like mushrooms, the UMAMI SEASONING is great. The ONION SALT is good, too, and contains a few types of dried onion. TJs canned COCONUT MILK, COCONUT CREAM, and RAW ALMOND BUTTER (crunchy or smooth) are delicious and don’t contain any unnecessary ingredients ?. The COCONUT AMINOS and TOASTED SESAME OIL are wonderful in Asian recipes. The frozen WILD ALASKAN SILVER COHO SALMON is tasty with maple syrup, coconut aminos, garlic powder, S&P. I also like JUST ALMOND MEAL for “breading” fish & chicken.
Sheaffer Sims says
I’m grabbing the tartar sauce next time for sure! I think their frozen mango is the best. It gives the best consistency to smoothies, and I like to defrost it just a tiny bit and eat it for dessert as well! I love their Asian mixed veggies that come in a bowl in the fresh produce section. I add those to their cauliflower rice and have a great lunch for at least 2 days!
Melinda Penny says
I love their Unexpected Cheddar Cheese! (Aged white cheddar with hints of Parmesan!) We use it on everything and love it on our homemade pizzas!
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!!!!!!!!
Lauren says
I also love their fresh flowers! I wrote about my favorites a few months ago here:
http://www.allaboutthatmommylife.com/2019/02/my-trader-joes-favorites.html?m=1
Emily Harrison says
I love the body butter but their honey mango shave cream is my favorite.
Nicole says
My husband and daughters picked me up their key lime pie in the frozen section and it was DELICIOUS!
Ann says
YEs!! Frozen key lime pie all the way. They only have it in the summer at my TJs so you’ve gotta take advantage while it’s there!
Lauren Green says
I travel an hour to get to Trader Joe’s! But, it’s SO worth it! Have you tried the scallion pancakes and their soy sauce? Their chicken ginger spring rolls are a hit, and we always have to have the garlic dip and I buy Persian cucumbers or the fig and olive crackers to dip it with. Also, love their fresh pizza dough and pizza sauce for make your own pizza night! Enjoy!
Julie says
The organic corn dippers are a favorite in my house! Really amazing corn chips (kind of like thick Fritos) that are good alone, with guac, or salsa! I always buy their unsweetened vanilla almond milk and my kids are obsessed with their fruit and cream yogurts…apricot, blueberry, etc.
Mix and Match Mama says
I need to try both!!
Karly says
Have to try their frozen chocolate croissants (or the almond ones). They are delicious and fun for the kids to prepare! I love their egg white frittatas (also in frozen section by quiche). They taste like the egg bites from Starbucks. My kids also like the frozen chocolate bananas and strawberries or the mini dipped cones. They are all addicting and perfect for summer!
Kasie Miller says
Oh I love Trader Joe’s and hate that the closest one is almost 2 hours away! Saving all of these for the next time I go and stock up (but those Neopolitan Joe Joe’s just might be worth a trip!!).
Nance in Reno says
The sweet and salty benne wafers!!!! Love sesame seeds and the fun-size wafers (little bigger than a quarter). Delicious!!! Hope this becomes a regular item. Still sad that the mango black tea and the carrot/pea veggie patties are gone.
Also bought the Georgia peach and pecan wafers but haven’t opened up the bag, yet
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
So many great things to stock up on!! I gotta try the mango sauce with chicken! I’m the biggest fan of the small ice cream cones as treats at night. Just the right amount for an after dinner desert!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Ali says
My question has nothing to do with the post, but I am curious, do you put essential oils on your bracelets? I saw bracelets advertised for that purpose and wondered if you had any thoughts. Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t…yet, but I might try!!
Jamie Christian says
That body butter is there year round… I LOOOOOOVE IT! And side note, ALL of their bath/body/face products are phenomenal! 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
It is?! I really loved it!!
Caroline says
In the fall, get the pumpkin body butter. It flies off the shelf, so hurry. You’ll smell like a pumpkin dessert.
Shari Florio says
I really love these posts! The pineapple and mango are my favorites to add to smoothies! I’ll have to try out the spring roll next time for lunch!
Molly says
My husband is training to be a pilot and our future living location is unknown. My only requirement is that we live within driving distance of a Trader Joe’s!! I’m a vegetarian and the options for my meals are SO GOOD!
Cindy Vernon says
Shopping at Trader Joe’s is always enjoyable experience for me. So many unusual items and the staff are just the best! I was told that their Orange Chicken is the top seller of all their frozen food items. Of course their cheese selection is the best as well. If you haven’t tried their individually bagged Light Kettle Corn and their Kettle Chips, you should. They are both very tasty.
Heather says
I love Trader Joes! Have you tried this recipe: https://www.traderjoes.com/recipes/dinner/gnocchi-with-bacon-brussels-sprouts
It is sooooo good.
Angie says
I will be checking out All. The. Things! Thank you! I have an unrelated question. Can you share where you got your cute tote/purse in the picture? I love it!
Sarah says
I love TJs but I worry about all the packaging going into the landfill. What do you think about this?
Addison says
I make a weekly trip to Trader Joe’s because it’s that good! My favorites include their creamy almond butter, pure maple syrup, cole slaw mix, turkey breasts, RX bars and their cashews!
Barbara Njos says
I’m vegan & Trader Joe’s is my main store. I love that most of their body products aren’t tested on animals. That’s huge for me. The moisturizing lotion is the best ever. I also buy shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc. (none test on animals). Their vegan mandarin orange chix chunks is as good as the traditional. I could go on & on but you get the point. Try the rolled tortilla chili lime chips. Very hot & spicy. Dip in guacamole on the go. I first tried that when it was one of the food samples there. Free coffee & treats, is a fun perk. T J’s has everything I normally buy. Not real crazy about all the pre packaged veggies but do buy them when I don’t have time to go to Sprouts. Thats my second store for veggies & cheese. T J’s vegan cheeses are terrible, sad to say. The prices are wonderful for the products I buy. Service is wonderful & it’s always fun to go there.
Carolyn says
I love the Green Tea Mints! They come in a little tin and are by the registers. Great to keep in your purse or car!
I.S. says
My Trader Joe’s has the coconut body butter year-round! Their seasonal body butters are pumpkin spice (around the same time everything else pumpkin spice gets released) and vanilla (in the winter months, I think it comes in when pumpkin spice gets phased out).
Debbie K says
So jealous because the nearest TJ to me is 2 hours away. I ask my daughter to bring me things when she comes home for a visit. Keep hoping we are getting one near us and hear it’s in the works, but that doesn’t help me now when I’m needing so many of the things in this post.
Laci says
I am a fan of all things Trader Joe’s!
Christina Adams says
Now they have itty bitty avocados- gamechanger!!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Ugh, I want to go to the US now to check out a Trader Joes store! Haha! 😛
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Debbie says
Love this! Buy the new gel moisturizer, it’s fabulous. We also love the dark chocolate almond butter cups, blistered peanuts, buffalo hummus, oatmeal dunkers.
Nicole Silva says
You can get a better bang for your buck at Costco for frozen fruit I heard. You get a lot more fruit for not too much more in price. But really TJ’s for life. Greatest place on earth!!
Lauren R says
The sea salt butterscotch caramels are to die for! I also love the speculous cookies, cookie butter, almond butter and am dying to try the new dark chocolate covered almond butter cups! Also, the Everything But the Bagel seasoning is amazing.
Also, not TJ’s related at all, but what size is your LV Neverfull? I’m debating between MM and GM. Thanks! 🙂
Elspeth Mizner says
All of these foods look so good. I love trying new things, thanks for the suggestions!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Mary says
Thanks to you I have Trader Joe’s meatballs in my crockpot right now ?
Mix and Match Mama says
Yay!!!!
Nicole says
Perfect Bars are so, so yummy!!! And their Vegan pesto is super good too! My husband loves the dunkers too!!
Marissa says
Get a jar of Trader Joe’s Corn and Chile tomato-less salsa…put feta cheese on it and cut up an avocado…mix together and serve with chips. Everyone always requests I make it and they think it’s so difficult to make until I show them how easy it really is. It’s the BEST!
Sara says
Their assorted flavored frozen macaroons are delish!! And I love buying the package of shredded brussel spouts this time of year and making a brussel sprout salad. Their frozen brown rice is so easy and really good (great short cut for chicken fried rice on week nights).
Laurel M says
We love their pajama coffee! Also love following @traderjoeslist on IG. She shows what she buys and what dishes she makes with them. Yummy and so creative!
Ashley says
Have you tried the chicken and poblano ravioli yet?? So good! I like to make a jalapeno pesto cream sauce to go with it but it is also good with pico sautéed lightly and then tossed with it. I am trying your meatball recipe out this week!
Mary says
The garlic spread dip is AMAZING. Vegan and non Vegan eaters will love it. The cashew fiesta dip is also so good. (can you tell I am dairy free) 🙂
Brittany says
1. The shaved brussel sprouts are so good! I sautee them with some chicken and make a sauce using TJ’s Garlic Aioli Mustard (which is good on so much stuff!) and balsamic vinegar (I usually add some pepper too). Then mix the sauce in with the chicken and brussel sprouts.
2. Their frozen brown rice is soooo good and you can cook it in the microwave
3. The Jalepeno Lime Almond dip
4. The vegan pesto (I usually add a few tablespoons to jar spaghetti sauce and it takes it to a new level 🙂 Or use it with some of the Cauliflower Gnocchi and some alfredo sauce.
5. The Zhoug Sauce (it’s a cilantro base but has a kick. It’s so good!) I usually cook chicken in it.
Kristi McDaniel says
The mini chocolate hazelnut biscotti are absolutely wonderful! And perfect dunked in a cup of coffee!
Shannon says
Wow, where to start! Trader Joe’s is a treasure trove of good stuff, but one of our favorites is the roasted corn with cotija cheese in the freezer section….Taco Tuesday isn’t complete without it. My son loves their soft pretzels (freezer section,) which are so fast and easy to prepare for an after school snack. The avacado tzatziki dip and their zhoug sauce are amazing, as well as their fruit and cream yogurts. I could go on forever…..
Kelly Davis says
Last week they were sampling a new jalapeno sauce (50/50 combined with sour cream) over their chicken – chipotle ravioli. Oh my goodness. Out of this world. Ridiculously easy dinner!!
Also love the grapefruit soap and buy it in multiples… and their season candles are so fun and great to scatter around.
Michelle says
I buy a lot of what you mentioned – but need to add the bacon ranch dip to my list. I buy the Marsala sauce to have on hand for a relatively easy chicken Marsala. I sauté their bagged spinach, sliced mushrooms and Dorot frozen garlic in TJ’s vegetable broth then add their riced cauliflower and chicken fried rice from the freezer section.
Jessica says
I’m obsessed with their pick de Gallo salsa. It’s so fresh and good with chips or on chicken. My husband loves it too!
Megan S says
Love their Kung Pao Chicken, Broccoli and Kale Slaw, Spicy California Sushi Rolls, Cheese Tortellini, Avacado’s Number Guacamole To Go, Roasted Garlic Hummus, and dog treats!
Abbey says
The chocolate coconut almonds will change your life…. trust me!!!
Tarryn says
I have a toddler and baby so I try to only go to one grocery store a week and buy 90% of our food at TJs! Our favorites are: pecan praline granola, honey Greek yogurt, freeze dried strawberries, applesauce pouches, dark chocolate peanut butter cups, English butter fudge, chocolate salted caramel balls, cowboy caviar (easy dinner is this plus chicken in a crock pot), cinnamon rolls, frozen naan, organic marinara, vegan pesto, all the raviolis, Italian turkey meatloaf… I’m sure I’m forgetting a bunch. Also love the body butter you mentioned. And the bagel seasoning that everyone loves.
Samantha Carfi says
You neeeeeed to try the Organic Elote Corn Chip Dippers! They are the Mexican street corn version of the chip dippers! Kind of tastes like a Cool Ranch Dorito but spicy! Shay you will thank me!
Kat Moyer says
I drive 30 minutes once a week to stop at a TJ’s. Here are a few of my must buys:
– Jerk Style Plantain Chips
– Three Layer Hummus
– Fruit Jellies
– Birthday Cake Popcorn
– Salsa Verde
Nancy says
Frozen lemon bars, beyond good. Frozen tamales with a chop salad, chips and salsa, ummm! So many really yummy things at TJs. My daughter takes me about once a month, really have to pace myself so I don’t eat it all in a week.
Stephanie Anderson says
You have to try Cookie Butter. Don’t let the name turns you away. I promise you will love it! If you go to the back by the samples and ask for one they have all the options you can try. I like the crunchy.
Mix and Match Mama says
Okay, I always see it, but then I always don’t know what I would put it on. What do you put it on???
Nicole says
A spoon ???
Mix and Match Mama says
I just LOL!! Hahaha!
ERIKA MILLS says
Cookie butter with banana, with the banana chips, over ice cream, and actually really good to make cookies with!
Chelsea says
Roasted plaintain chips are the best! The dark chocolate sea salt turbinado almonds are also a huge it! And the cauliflower and butternut squash pizza crusts are fun!
Mara Kreiling says
I love everything you listed! The bacon, ranch and cheddar is so good… but easy to just make at home! Container of Sour cream (could mix with Greek Yogurt), bacon bits, a packet of ranch seasoning and shredded cheese 🙂
Vy Garcia says
TJ has this curry sauce in a jar called Thai Green Curry Simmer Sauce that I absolutely love! My husband always request this for supper. I saute about a pound of cut up chicken breast with minced garlic and chopped onion. Pour the sauce over and add in a can of coconut milk (TJ’s brand is great!), a dash of salt, and I serve this over rice or noodles. Top off with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice. The lemon makes it so much better! I know you like Thai food so I thought I’d share this quick recipe with you. Have a great day!
Lynne says
Ok, I can’t wait to try some of your favs! Thank you! Here are a few things always in my cart:
*Giant pretzels (frozen section-great for son who doesn’t eat deli meat and nut free school)
*100%pure maple syrup- large jug, red top
*case of alkaline water bottles
* shishito peppers (near bag salads)
*cruciferous crunch salad blend-just don’t ask me to pronounce it 😉
*chocolate covered chocolate mouse presents or eggs depending on season – Insanely good!
Miranda Foster says
I love roasting the organic kale, cruciferous crunch, sweet potato spirals, carols spirals and adding grilled chicken with the vegan cashew pesto. I make it weekly for a healthy lunch all week! I also live 5he cashew cheese dip with planton chips!
Randi says
The frozen Kimchi Fried Rice is SO GOOD!
Mary Wilmot says
I haven’t been forever but I’m thinking I need to go now!
Pat says
We stopped at Trader Joe’s in Gainesville, FL on our way home from Orlando to Panama City just this past Sunday. We picked up Thai Chili cashews, white cheddar popcorn, and my personal fav: Almond Windmill Cookies.
Misty S. says
Not fair!!! I closest Trader Joe’s is 3 hours away! Sadly I have only been to Trader Joe’s one time.
Nicole says
The last time I was there I saw a women scrolling on her phone and I couldn’t help but think I bet she’s checking Shays blog for suggestions!! Lol
Mix and Match Mama says
Hahahahaha!
Lisa Baron says
That was me yesterday in TJ’s – lol! I also took pics of some stuff…
Lily says
Have you tried TJ’s boxed Mac and cheese? It’s the same thing as Annie’s boxed Mac and cheese but it’s their own brand! My kids love it!
Kimberly Hamilton says
I love Trader Joe’s and love this post . You must try
• the SALMON DIP ( Delicious … in the same area with the bacon cheddar ranch dip )
.• stir fry. CAULIFLOWER RICE ( so tasty . can be found next to the other stir fry combos ..Trader Joe’s just received more last week after being g sold out for 3 months !!! I add sautéed shrimp to mine yummy
Nerine says
Ok I went yesterday and bought their Hot Pepper Jelly per your recommendation (from the first TJs post) and, oh my! It’s life changing!
Also, I can’t believe no one mentioned their Pastry Bites with Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onions! (in appetizer freezer section) Best best ever! I always serve these as appetizers at my dinner parties and everyone loves them!! I could eat them for every meal for the rest of my life 🙂
Morgan says
My kids LOVE their frozen mac & cheese (regular or gluten free)! I always stock up and buy 4-5 boxes. Now they’ll hardly eat any other kind.
CAROLE says
oh my yes…..i kept reading through the comments waiting for someone to mention the new organic elote mexican corn chips!! i agree, they are fantastic! we have an entire shelf in our pantry of them because i am so worried they will not have them next time so i keep buying more bags.
Debbie says
The never ending post! ??? I have to share another amazing find! In the refrigerated section, try the lemon basil pasta salad. It’s absolutely amazing! I squeeze extra lemon on it, even though it already comes with a wedge. It’s fab! ???????????. You’ll thank me later! ???
Katie says
The Sweet Potato Crackers..delish!
They have an awesome Orzo Salad with sundries tomatoes, feta..etc!
Curry Chicken Salad!
ERIKA MILLS says
First cookie butter. Makes a banana snack so much better. Second: their bruchetta sauce is SO GOOD!!! Some grilled chicken, pasta and a scoop of that makes a super quick and easy meal! I also love their garlic dip! We use it as a dip (with the bruschetta!) or spread on fish or chicken before baking/griling! It gives such a great flavor. I love the banana chips for dipping too!