Grocery shopping can sometimes be a daunting task. Picture this — it’s the beginning of the week and you realize your fridge is empty. What are some recipes that are quick and easy for those nights of the week when you want something yummy but can’t find the time or energy to make something too time-consuming and complicated? Before I became a regular shopper at Trader Joe’s, I often ran into a terrible routine of pushing grocery shopping off for days until I absolutely ran out of food in the fridge. I absolutely dreaded making the trip. Going to the grocery store isn’t always a quick hit, where you are in and out in just a few minutes. I found myself making these elaborate lists for recipes that call for a million ingredients and before I knew it, I would be walking up and down the aisles for at least 30 minutes. Trader Joe’s soon became my saving grace and honestly has made it exciting to go to the grocery store because of their high-quality, easy to prepare meals — and their insanely affordable prices! Aside from their easy, frozen meals, they have a wide selection of various other foods that can spice up your traditional recipes or go-to snacks. Here are a few Trader Joe’s Must-Haves!
1. Cauliflower Gnocchi
I know that these are one of Trader Joe’s hottest commodities and you have probably heard it countless times, but these seriously are amazing. These are super easy to make and go well with just about any sauce that you would put on pasta. Personally, I find tastiest when I prepare them on a skillet as opposed to boiling them because the consistency can get a bit mushy.
2. Thai Vegetable Gyoza
These are super tasty and probably better than a lot of the gyoza that I have had at several Japanese restaurants. They have no preservatives or artificial flavors and are vegetarian! Boil them or throw them on a skillet with a cooking oil of your choice and they are done in less than 10 minutes!
3. Spaghetti Squash Spirals
These are a really good find! If you are in the mood for a savory, yet kind of sweet pasta dish, these are a super healthy alternative!
4. Gone Bananas!
So I actually learned about these on TikTok and grabbed them on my most recent visit to Trader Joe’s. They are absolutely worth the hype and a really good snack or guilt-free dessert.
5. Coconut Whipped Topping
I have a lactose sensitivity, so I tend to steer clear from typical whipped cream. This is honestly better than whipped cream and goes well with fresh fruit, dessert, or even as a coffee creamer!
6. Health Shots
These are my Holy Grail. Especially with flu season coming, these are a great way to boost your immune system, aid digestion, and improve energy! I have been buying health shots for years, and Trader Joe’s definitely sells them for the best price!
7. Sesame Honey Almonds
These are absolutely incredible. I’ve used them in salads, put them on top of yogurt, and also just eat them as a satisfying snack!
8. Everything But The Bagel Greek Yogurt Dip
I’m sure you have heard of Trader Joe’s infamous Everything But The Bagel Seasoning … This dip is just as good as that. I highly recommend these with cut up veggies or crackers!
9. Pumpkin Butter
This is another product that I’ve seen all over TikTok. I was honestly pretty skeptical about it, but it is definitely worth all that it’s hyped up to be. It is one of those products that you can put on just about anything. I like it best heated up in the microwave and melted onto oatmeal or yogurt in the morning.
10. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
This is another great frozen meal item with a Fall twist. This is a three-cheese blend with butternut squash puree and savory notes of nutmeg and sage, making it extremely unique and flavorful. It honestly tastes like a gourmet mac and cheese that you would order from a nice restaurant. This product is a creamy, decadent comfort food—perfect for a cold day!