22 Essentials From Trader Joe’s for Every Food Lover

Walking into Trader Joe’s is like stepping into a culinary wonderland where unique products and budget-friendly prices coexist harmoniously. Known for its eclectic mix of gourmet goodies and everyday essentials, this beloved grocery chain has cultivated a loyal following of food enthusiasts. Whether you’re hunting for the latest foodie trend or simply restocking your pantry, Trader Joe’s promises delightful discoveries at every turn.

From the tantalizing aroma of fresh-baked sourdough to the vibrant colors of seasonal produce, the store is a sensory feast. Join us as we explore the 22 best things to buy at Trader Joe’s, guaranteed to enhance your culinary adventures.

Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Seasoning has taken the culinary world by storm with its perfect blend of sesame seeds, sea salt, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds. Originally designed to mimic the flavor of an everything bagel, this versatile seasoning can elevate a wide range of dishes. Sprinkle it on avocado toast for an extra kick, mix it into scrambled eggs, or even use it to season roasted vegetables. Its popularity has spawned countless recipe ideas, making it a must-have pantry staple.

Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi offers a delicious, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta, featuring a blend of cauliflower, cassava flour, and potato starch. This low-carb option is beloved for its versatility and ease of preparation. Pan-fry for a crispy texture, or boil for a softer, more traditional gnocchi feel, then toss with your favorite sauce. Whether you’re looking for a healthier twist on Italian comfort food or a quick weeknight dinner, cauliflower gnocchi is a game-changer.

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is a freezer aisle favorite, combining tender, battered chicken with a tangy-sweet orange sauce. It’s a quick and convenient meal that rivals takeout, ready in just minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a side of veggies. This dish’s balance of flavors and ease of preparation make it a staple in many households.

Speculoos Cookie Butter is one of Trader Joe’s most iconic products, transforming the beloved Belgian cookie into a creamy, spreadable delight. Its warm, spiced flavor and smooth texture make it incredibly versatile. Spread it on toast, drizzle over pancakes, or use it as a decadent dip for apples. With endless culinary possibilities, it’s no wonder this treat has a dedicated fan base.

Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are a decadent treat that perfectly balances rich, dark chocolate with creamy peanut butter. These bite-sized delights are a favorite among chocolate lovers and make a great gift or indulgence for yourself. The quality ingredients and perfect portion size ensure that each bite is a moment of pure bliss. Keep them in the fridge for an extra refreshing treat on warm days.

Trader Joe’s Organic Riced Cauliflower is a fantastic low-carb, gluten-free substitute for traditional rice. This versatile ingredient can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to grain bowls, adding a healthy twist without compromising on texture or flavor. It’s pre-riced and ready to cook, making it a convenient option for busy nights. Incorporating riced cauliflower into your meals is a simple way to boost your veggie intake.

Trader Joe’s Sourdough Bread stands out for its authentic tangy flavor and chewy texture, thanks to its traditional fermentation process. This artisanal bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter. Its sturdy yet soft interior makes it ideal for soaking up sauces or accompanying hearty soups. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a customer favorite.

Trader Joe’s Greek Yogurt is a creamy, protein-packed option available in a variety of delicious flavors. This thick, rich yogurt is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a base for smoothies. Its high protein content helps keep you full and satisfied, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. With both sweet and tart options, there’s a flavor to suit every palate.

Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar combines the smooth creaminess of aged cheddar with the tangy, nutty notes of Parmesan. This unique cheese is perfect for snacking, melting over dishes, or adding to a cheese board. Its complex flavor profile makes it a hit at parties and a staple in cheese lovers’ refrigerators. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with crackers, it’s sure to impress.

Trader Joe’s Frozen Mac and Cheese offers the ultimate comfort food experience with minimal effort. This dish is incredibly creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Just pop it in the microwave or oven for a warm, hearty meal in minutes. Its rich, homemade taste has made it a go-to for busy individuals and families alike.

Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing is a creamy, herbaceous blend of avocado, green onions, and lemon juice. This versatile dressing adds a fresh, zesty flavor to salads, wraps, and grain bowls. It’s also great as a dip for veggies or a marinade for chicken. With its healthy ingredients and vibrant taste, it’s a refreshing addition to any meal.

Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels are a snack sensation, combining crunchy pretzel shells with creamy peanut butter filling. These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying salty and sweet cravings. They’re an ideal snack for on-the-go, parties, or just relaxing at home. Once you start eating them, it’s hard to stop, thanks to their addictive flavor and texture.

Trader Joe’s Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones are the perfect bite-sized dessert, offering a delightful treat in a convenient size. Available in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and seasonal varieties, these mini cones are a hit with both kids and adults. Their small size makes them an ideal portion-controlled indulgence. Enjoy the creamy ice cream and crunchy cone without overindulging.

Trader Joe’s Chocolate Lava Cakes are a dessert lover’s dream, featuring a rich, molten chocolate center that oozes out when heated. These individual-sized cakes are perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat at home. Just pop them in the microwave or oven for a few minutes to enjoy a restaurant-quality dessert. Pair with a scoop of ice cream or fresh berries for an extra indulgent experience.

Trader Joe’s Chili Lime Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips pack a flavorful punch with their spicy and tangy seasoning. These crunchy snacks are perfect for dipping in salsa, guacamole, or enjoying on their own. Their bold flavor and satisfying crunch make them a popular choice for parties and casual snacking. If you love a little heat and zest, these chips are a must-try.

Trader Joe’s Organic Joe’s O’s are a wholesome, organic version of the classic O-shaped cereal. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients, this cereal is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a crunchy snack, with or without milk. Enjoy the nostalgic taste and feel good about the organic ingredients.

Trader Joe’s Almond Butter is a creamy, natural spread made with just one ingredient: almonds. This smooth and nutritious butter is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to smoothies, or using in baking. Its rich, nutty flavor makes it a versatile addition to your pantry. Whether you prefer it smooth or crunchy, it’s a delicious and healthy alternative to peanut butter.

Trader Joe’s Frozen Acai Puree Packets are a convenient way to enjoy the superfood acai at home. These packets are perfect for making smoothies, bowls, or healthy snacks, packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Just blend with your favorite fruits and toppings for a delicious and nutritious treat. They make incorporating acai into your diet simple and accessible.

Trader Joe’s Sparkling Mineral Water is a refreshing, calorie-free beverage available in a range of flavors. This fizzy water is perfect for those looking to stay hydrated with a bit of flavor and no added sugars. Enjoy it on its own, as a mixer, or as a base for homemade sodas. It’s a healthier alternative to sugary drinks, with all the sparkle you crave.

Trader Joe’s Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate delivers a smooth, rich coffee experience with minimal effort. Just dilute with water or milk to your preferred strength and enjoy a refreshing cold brew at home. It’s perfect for busy mornings or a midday pick-me-up, providing a convenient and cost-effective alternative to coffee shop cold brews. With its bold flavor and ease of use, it’s a staple for coffee lovers.

Trader Joe’s Triple Ginger Snaps are a spicy-sweet treat, featuring fresh, crystallized, and ground ginger for a burst of flavor. These crunchy cookies are perfect for snacking, dunking in tea, or using in dessert recipes. Their bold ginger taste makes them a hit during the holiday season, but they’re delicious year-round. If you love ginger, these cookies are a must-try.

Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookies are spiced shortcrust biscuits that are perfect for enjoying with coffee or tea. Their warm, cinnamon and caramel flavors make them a comforting treat on their own or as a base for various desserts. Crumble them over ice cream, use them in pie crusts, or enjoy straight from the box. These cookies capture the essence of traditional Belgian Speculoos in every bite.