I don’t know about you, but I always like reading about new food finds. I shared a few of my favorite healthy snacks (post here) with you a few months ago and now I’m back with a Trader Joe’s edition. As much as I love sharing new recipes with you each week, all the recipes start with some of my favorite ingredients and this post gives me a chance to share a few of the products I’m loving. We have a Trader Joe’s pretty close to our house and I always love checking out their newest selection. Although I don’t find Trader Joe’s to be a great place to find your “everyday” groceries, it is good for specialty products and snacks. Here is my Trader Joe’s top five products.
Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers
I have always been a fan of veggie burgers. While I was perusing the frozen food section, I came across these Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers and knew that I needed to try them. I love the Southwestern flavor of these burgers and while they are great as a traditional veggie burger, I like to chop the patty and serve it over a salad for lunch. These are super tasty!
Cruciferous Crunch Collection
Speaking of salads, this is the mix that I typically like to pair with the Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers (above). I love that Trader Joe’s has already done all the hard work of preparing the vegetables and that it’s a different take on the usually bagged lettuce. Brussels sprouts are one of my favorite foods and I love that they are included in this mix. I usually like to pair this mix with the veggie burger and the Trader Joe’s Cilantro Dressing. It’s such a yummy Southwest salad!
Reduced Guilt Chunky Guacamole
Arguably my favorite Trader Joe’s find, this guacamole is addictive! Made with Greek yogurt, this guacamole gives you that creamy texture without as many calories. I hate to even say it, but I can eat the entire container in one sitting. It’s that good. Don’t get me wrong. I typically do not discriminate when it comes to guacamole, but this stuff is the real deal. Dip your favorite tortilla chips, veggies or pretzels into this dip and you will have a hard time going back to the traditional, higher calorie guacamole.
Pretzel Slims
Speaking of pretzels, these Pretzel Slims are one of my favorite snacks to keep on hand. Super similar to the Pretzel Crisps you buy at the grocery store, for some reason the Trader Joe’s version tastes better! Maybe because it’s cheaper?! I love to pair these pretzels with the reduced guilt guacamole, hummus or even honey mustard (I’ve been obsessed with this combination since college!). A pretty simple snack, these Pretzel Slims are one of my go-to snacks.
Reduced Gilt Mac and Cheese
Oh, Mac and Cheese. I first discovered this microwaveable dinner while looking for the veggie burgers a few months ago. After checking the calories, I decided to give it a go. My husband was out of town and I didn’t have to make dinner so I thought a Stouffer’s-esque mac and cheese was the perfect dinner idea. To be honest, when I see things that say “reduced gilt”, my expectations are not terribly high. But, much to my surprise, this microwavable mac and cheese was GOOD. I paired it with a salad for dinner and I was instantly hooked.
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Do you shop at Trader Joe’s? What are some of your favorites? I would love to hear in the comments below. Thanks for reading and have a great Tuesday!
These things look so good. The reduced gilt mac and cheese sounds like something I would eat.
http://sugarcoatedbears.blogspot.com/
You nw how much I love this post as I am still on my TJ’s high from last week. The quilt free quac has me wanting to drive the hour back there just to get more!! I devoured it in 2 sittings. Would love tho try the veggie burger and pretzels, putting them on my list for next time!! Have a great day!
Totally agree on the guacamole! Have you tried their plantain chips with it? I love their merlot soaked cheese. Their price on Boursin cheese is un beatable and with their brioche toasts! Patio happy hour at my house with those snacks is calling my name! I’m excited to try Mac and veggie burgers! Thanks!
Thank you so much for sharing this! I love a good TJ find and I’m going to add these to my list!
Katherine | http://www.oneswainkycouple.com
Oh TJ’s, I love your store. I also live close to one and do most of my shopping there. I just picked up some Sriracha cheese that was outstanding! Can hardly wait to try all of your recommendations! Thanks for sharing!
All the more reason for me to wish we had a Trader Joe’s near by!
Great top five list! Try the frozen mangos chunks. They’re great for snacking!
I LOVE those pretzel slims! Especially the everything flavor. And the cruciferous crunch i buy multiple bags- i make a big massaged salad with it, after a few hours it softens a bit. I also love to just sautee it with some garlic and a splash of soy sauce and toasted sesame oil ontop when it’s done cooking.
My long list of additional favorites include the soyrizo (awesome for tacos, chili, and with scrambled eggs), the 50/50 corn and flour tortillas, cowboy caviar salsa, the meatless balls, pumpernickle pretzel sticks, and mixed nut butter…. haha, i love the place!!
Hope you are having a great week and thanks so much for sharing your awesome post with Full Plate Thursday!
Miz Helen