sidechef.comHaving worked at Trader Joe’s, I’ve seen firsthand which products garner all the excitement and which ones might not be worth your time or money. Trader Joe’s has an extensive range of products, and while many are deserving of their hype, others may not live up to expectations. With this guide, you can make informed choices on what to pick up for your next shopping trip. Happy shopping! Here’s a rundown of six popular items that truly deserve their hype, along with four that I would recommend skipping.
6 Popular Items Worth the Hype
Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
Why It’s Great: This seasoning blend is a fan favorite for good reason. It combines sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and salt, creating a versatile mix that elevates a wide variety of dishes.
Tips:
It also makes a fantastic seasoning for popcorn or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Use it on avocado toast, scrambled eggs, or roasted vegetables for an instant flavor boost.
sidechef.com
Cauliflower Gnocchi
Why It’s Great: Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi has taken the health-conscious community by storm. It’s gluten-free and made primarily from cauliflower, offering a lighter twist on the classic dish.
Tips:
Pair it with a simple sauce like pesto or marinara for a delicious meal.
Sauté it in a little olive oil rather than boiling for the best texture.
globe-gazers.com
Unexpected Cheddar Cheese
Why It’s Great: This cheese surprises with its rich, complex flavor, combining the sharpness of aged cheddar with a creamy finish. It’s great for snacking or adding to recipes.
Tips:
Use it in mac and cheese for a gourmet twist.
Serve it on a cheese board alongside dried fruits and nuts.
Trader Joe’s
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Why It’s Great: These treats are the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and rich dark chocolate, making them an indulgent yet satisfying snack.
Tips:
Pair them with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Keep a few in the fridge for an extra cool treat.
Trader Joe’s
Jo Jo’s Cookies
Why It’s Great: Trader Joe’s version of Oreos, Jo Jo’s come in several flavors and have a satisfying cream filling. They’re crunchy, creamy, and downright addictive.
Tips:
They’re great for dessert or as a sweet treat in lunch boxes.
Try the seasonal flavors when they come out for something new and exciting.
Trader Joe’s
Spicy Lentil Wrap
Why It’s Great: This ready-to-eat wrap is packed with flavor and has a great texture, making it a quick and healthy meal option.
Tips:
Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Microwave it for a few seconds to warm it up, enhancing the flavors.
whatsgoodattraderjoes.com
4 Items I’d Skip
Frozen Mashed Potatoes
Why to Skip: While convenient, the flavor and texture of these mashed potatoes often fall flat compared to homemade or even some other frozen alternatives.
Tip: If you’re looking for quick potatoes, try the fresh pre-made options instead.
Trader Joe’s
Mango Joe-Joe’s
Why to Skip: While some people enjoy them, the flavor of these cookies can be overly sweet and artificial, leaving a lot to be desired.
Tip: Stick to classic Jo Jo’s or seasonal flavors that have better reviews.
kmartinelli.com
Mini Brie Bites
Why to Skip: These can be hit or miss in terms of quality. Some batches are great, while others can be underwhelming and lack the creamy texture expected from brie.
Tip: Opt for a whole wheel of brie instead, which tends to be fresher and more flavorful.
recipesorreservations.com
Soy Chorizo
Why to Skip: Though popular among some vegetarians, many find the flavor lacking compared to traditional chorizo, making it less satisfying in dishes.
Tip: If you’re looking for a meat substitute, try the lentil or quinoa options instead for more depth of flavor.
Ghazalle Badiozamani