My Trader Joe’s Favorites

If there is one thing most people will agree on, it’s that Trader Joe’s has some seriously good finds. Personally, I’ve only ever been to Trader Joe’s a handful of times, because we live in Hawaii and so – no Trader Joe’s for Hawaii residents. So sad! But all is not lost, because I have parents and friends who keep my stocked on all the good stuff that is coming off Trader Joe’s shelves and that means a whole lot of #happymail! 

To be honest, I think I might be overwhelmed in an actual Trader Joe’s store, because I’ve been getting boxes in the mail for so long and I just get and love whatever my friends and family send. It’s pretty great! 

So, all of that being said, I’m sharing my Trader Joe’s favorites today, so if that sort of post is something you are interested in, today’s post is for you 🙂

My Trader Joe’s Favorites

We will get one thing off the table right away – I obviously don’t have access to any of the cold or frozen stuff. I’ve sampled the cauliflower gnocchi (pan fry or else it’s soggy!), pumpkin ravioli and various drink options (like dairy free peppermint creamer…yum!) at my parents and it was DIVINE. I dream of a day I can leisurely stroll the aisles of Trader Joe’s. Anyway, moving on…

TRADER JOE’S SNACKS

Plantain Chips – I have tried the regular, as well as the spicier jerk variety and both are pretty much crack. Deliciously salty and crunchy and no – they don’t taste like bananas. 

Fruit + Nut – These are 100% not something I would ever pick out for myself, which is why they’re such a delightful treat and are so happy our friends introduced us to them. They come in a couple flavors, are made with whole ingredients and satisfy a sweet tooth for those looking to avoid processed sugar. 

Sea Salt + Butterscotch Caramels – This is a no-brainer for yourself or as a gift. These little morsels are deeeeeee-licious! 

TRADER JOE’S SEASONINGS

Chili Lime – This is amazing on tacos/taco salads! I have also sprinkled it on popcorn.

Umami Blend – If there was a must-have item from TJ’s it would be this. I PUT IT ON EVERYTHING. Stir fry, potatoes, seafood, popcorn, vegetables, rice, quinoa — literally everything. It’s so delicious and the only way I know how to describe it is “savory”, which  really doesn’t do the product justice, so you’re going to have to trust me on this one. 

Everything But The – I’m guessing everyone uses this, but it’s “Everything Bagel” seasoning and it’s a good multi-purpose blend. Though, truth be told, you  can buy giant sizes of it at Costco now!

Harissa Chili Pepper Paste – This stuff will light you up, but it’s INSANE in curry!

Yuzu Sauce – I didn’t really know what to make with this until one day we put it on fish tacos and then all of a sudden we were putting it on everything to take it up a notch. It’s one part fruity, one part hot and doubly delicious. My favorite is on fish or veggie tacos or to flavor pan friend green beans!

TRADER JOE’S BREAKFAST

Pumpkin Scone Mix – My friend Casey packed a box of this to make at our rental house when we went to Iceland together last fall, because all you had to do was add water and it was a nice warm treat to enjoy with minimal work. THEY WERE DELICIOUS! It comes with a glaze that is good, but they’re equally tasty without.

Pumpkin Bagels – I am one of those people that wants pumpkin everything once September hits, so these felt extra good enjoying last fall when my mom got them for me as a treat when I was home in PA. They’re not overly pumpkin, but the taste is definitely there! They’re extra good with cinnamon butter on top, just saying 😉

Coconut Granola – This was a surprise in one of my boxes and OH MY GOOD HEAVENS! It’s delicious on acai bowls. Probably one of my favorite TJ items outside that Umami Blend.