These are a few of my favorite things…
Cheers to a grocer that understands the FOODIE in us! Trader Joe’s has what I would like to call Michelin worthy, pantry ready finds… these are some of my favorites…
I don’t know about you but I truly appreciate that the second I step foot into a Trader Joe’s, I know that I will be in and out in under 45 minutes. EVEN with all the exploring and excitement of new product finds!
Here’s how my shopping trips at the Joe’s goes…
Kick off your grocery shopping with a fresh start… literally. The flowers get me every time, the arrangement I just purchased was two packs (one for $7.99 and the other for $3.99), A BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET for under $13, yet everyone keeps asking what flower shop they came from. SORRY HUBBY, though you usually get the flower credit, this one’s on Joe. (TRADER JOE’s that is).
Alright here are my hot finds of the time. Some are here to stay, and others passing through… so if you find you love a product as much as I do, don’t be afraid to buy the store out. It’s worth it.
The plant and the flowers pictured above are both Trader Joe’s finds!
SNACK FOODS
Let’s start by saying, I have a huge CRUNCH on the snack isle at Joe’s. So many delicious treats stop me dead in my tracks every time!
I do have some award winning picks that I’d like to share… so here goes: The Hawaiian Salt and Vinegar Chips are FABULOUS. They are also on their way out the door (FOREVER) so I highly recommend snatching EVERY LAST BAG if you come across them. These are a favorite snack item in our household. They have a slightly sweetened tang to them. The crunch is on point, and they are hands down the best salt and vinegar chips I have ever tasted.
Spicy Chakri Mix is also a fun snack item to try. I just keep these on hand for when my mother-in-law doesn’t have any of her homemade Indian snacks made up. They have the perfect crunch and heat. I even add them to my salads (my hubby thinks that is a little strange) but it’s delicious. TRY IT!
New to the Joe’s line-up are these delectable Carolina Gold BBQ chips. They are sweet, tangy, and salty, and even if you are not a BBQ fan, I think these ones could win your heart.
Plantain Chips are my go to when we have people over. They are awesome alone or mixed in with nuts or a trail mix. The Jerk Style is new and also a fun little kick to try.
I prefer the plain ones over the Jerk, but they each have some winning notes!
LUNCH BUNCH
Reuben Sandwiches are a big hit in my household, and Trader Joe’s has some top notch products to melt your taste buds!
Pumpernickel, Swiss, Pastrami, and Sauerkraut… then instead of Thousand Island, give this MAGNIFISAUCE a shot! It’s a melt that will melt your heart… if you know what I mean!
Another great lunch find… beets! Ready to eat! Add them to a salad, and it’s like you’re sitting on a patio at your favorite water view restaurant. That simple… and tasty!
LETTUCE
TURNIP
the
BEET.
DINE AT HOME – AROUND THE GLOBE
Here are THREE of my favorite meals that I can quickly whip together when my hubby (the chef) is unable to cook. And they taste good, REAL GOOD!
Gyoza’s and Gyoza Dipping Sauce! We prefer the vegetable or chicken Gyoza’s, but they also carry a shrimp variety. Scallion Pancakes make the perfect side!
For a quick stir fry, try the Asian Vegetables paired with the microwavable Jasmine Rice, Stir Fry Sauce, and Sweet Chili Sauce.
We also love the Yellow Tadka Dal, which I personally pair with Jasmine Rice, but you wouldn’t need to!
We’ve all raved about the frozen Cacio E Pepe, and the Ravoli version, but now our dinner hour has gotten all the more authentic with this Cacio E Pepe Pasta Sauce! We prefer to pair it with Ricciolo noodles. We have even used it as a PIZZA SAUCE, and oh my my my was that fabulous. Whichever route you take, this sauce takes the cake!
WINE NOT CHEERS TO TRADER JOE’S?
Last three items to rave about… drum roll please… Sancerre Wine, Almond Butter Almonds, and SPICY Mango Lemonade. Time to put your feet up and relax.
I almost hate to share this secret in fear that the bottles will sell out, but this Sancerre from Joe’s is a brilliant wine! This
is basically a Sauvignon Blanc (perfect for summertime) and less of the grapefruit acidity so it really leaves your palate feeling crisp and refreshed!
Pair these Almond Butter covered Almonds with your favorite glass of wine, or just grab a few for a late night treat! PERFECTION!
Here’s the perfect mixer, Spicy Mango Lemonade! I prefer making a margarita with two parts tequila, three parts of the mix, and a nice dust of Tajin on the rim! CHEERS!
