MORE! What You Should Buy at Trader Joe's, Part 3

Author:

Natalie Mason

June 28, 2013

It's about time for a Part 3 to my round-up of favorite treats at Trader Joe's. It can be really overwhelming there so I always appreciate recommendations from others. These are some new items that I have tried lately and love. They all seem to make their way to my basket every time I am in there!

(Here's Part 1 and 2 if you missed them.)

PARMESAN PASTRY PUPS

These are the best pigs-in-a-blanket ever. I love the puff pastry aspect; it pairs so well with the hot dogs. I prefer them to regular pigs-in-a-blanket—perfect easy app for entertaining or meal for your little one. Sterling gobbles these up.

SPICY BLACK BEAN DIP

This literally cost a $1.50 so I figured why not try it out? It was way better than I expected it to be, even Matt loved it. It has incredible flavor. I served with sliced fresh veggies and Lavish Chips (see below). A great healthy snack to keep on hand.

WHOLE-WHEAT LAVISH CHIPS

If you are getting tired of pita chips, try these out. They are thinner with great crunch and salty flavor. I dip them in hummus or the black bean dip.

CHILE RELLENOS
I have to admit I am not a big frozen meal person. Most are disgusting and I can easily whip together something way tastier. However, enter pregnancy number two and I am just plain exhausted come dinner time, I just can't cook every night. I decided to give these a try—I liked that they were vegetarian. Frozen meat grosses me out (I have meat issues). They were actually really good. Filled with lots of cheese and the salsa on top was very flavorful. I did have to add more salt and hot sauce. But overall, a great easy meal and only 350 calories. I would make them again.

MANGO LEMONADE

I got sucked into tasting this last time I was shopping and I loved it. I have been on a real lemonade kick and this hit the spot with pulp of fresh lemon and not too sweet. Sterling loves it too, great for kids.

SPINACH KALE BALLS

My mom and sister raved about these, and for a long time, our store didn't have them in stock. But they are back in and so good! A great meal served with a side salad or as an appetizer. They are delicious served with marinara or roasted red pepper sauce.

MAC & CHEESE BITES

I don't think I even need to describe these. Mac & Cheese Balls... enough said.

TEMPTING TRAIL MIX

Thanks to my sister, I am addicted to this trail mix. I keep a bag in my purse or car at all times. It is the perfect combo of salty and sweet, filled with nuts, dried cherries, chocolate chips, and pb chips. Such a great snack.

SALSA AUTENTICA
This salsa is only $1.99 and I buy several each time I am at Trader Joe's—that is how much I am addicted to it. I heard the Salsa Verde is great, too, so I need to try it next time.

MARINATED FRESH MOZZARELLA BALLS
With cherry tomatoes in prime season right now, I have been really into caprese salads. This small container mozzarella balls costs a small fortune at other grocery stores but at Trader Joe's, they are $4.99. You really can't beat any of the cheese prices at Trader Joe's. I love that they are already marinated with tasty spices. I use them in pasta salads, to snack on, or caprese salads.