10 TRADER JOE’S PRODUCTS THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Guest post by Natalie Merrill

Our favorite store for all things healthy, easy to cook, and best of all, inexpensive? Trader. Joe’s. TJ’s is the key to eating like a Queen even if you’re tight on time, energy, or money. So without further ado, here are some favorite items you can’t forget on your next shopping trip!

1. Everything But The Bagel Seasoning

This mix is exactly as is sounds- it’s everything but the bagel with a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sea salt flakes, diced garlic and dried onions. We love this on eggs, avocado, in stir fry, with tofu, and even on salads. A must-add to your pantry!

2. Pepita Salsa

Pepitas, also known as pumpkin seeds, are a tasty, slightly nutty, and nutritious treat. Mix that with traditional salsa flavors and we’re talking ~magic~. 

3. Movie Theater Popcorn

No movie necessary! This tasty snack has the perfect salty, buttery flavor you love from the theatre, with only 4 ingredients: popcorn, sunflower oil, butter, and sea salt. With such simple, organic ingredients, you can definitely feel less guilty about snacking!

4. Cauliflower Gnocchi

We know this product already broke the internet, but months later we are still here for it! If you’re trying to cut down on the carbs or avoid gluten, the Cauliflower Gnocchi is exactly what you need. You can cook it via microwave or stove-top, and it is tasty with any of your favorite pasta sauces. Talk about #gourmet.

5. Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto

Now we know going vegan isn’t for everyone, but this is an item anyone can get for it. This pesto is much lighter than a traditional pesto, and is amazing on eggs, pasta, or even mixed with olive oil for a dressing! It is certified vegan, gluten free, MORE.

6. Speculoos Cookie Butter

This product is a true Trader Joe’s original. As TJ’s biggest selling item of 2016, this item is like no other and has a unique gingersnap, biscuit flavor. To make matters better, Trader Joe’s now carries a Cookie Butter ice cream flavor! 

7. Mandarin Orange Chicken

Save yourself the $20 you would spend on takeout and opt for these bad-boys instead. With a spicy ginger kick, and true homemade flavor, all that is required for preparation is an oven set at 400 degrees and 20 minutes!

8. Mochi

Have a sweet tooth but trying to limit your sugar intake? These mochi will save you! Each ball of mochi ice cream is small enough to help with portioning, but satisfying enough that you won’t be tempted to finish the whole box (like we would with ice cream). Better yet? Trader Joe’s carries some mochi options that are dairy free! Green Tea, Thai Ice Tea, and Mango are just a few of the many yummy flavors they carry. 

9. Sparkling Watermelon Juice

Soda is a thing of the past with this sparkling Watermelon Juice! Add some lemon or lime juice to make this a refreshing summer drink. Also check out the Mango Kombucha and Lemon Elderflower Soda for more delicious alternatives to soda.

 10. Chile Lime Chicken Burgers

Easy to prepare protein for women on the go! These chicken patties come pre-cooked, so with a quick heat up in the microwave, on the stove, or in the oven, you are set to enjoy! We recommend adding this lean meat to salads, in tacos, or eating in traditional burger form.

Have any favorite products we’re missing? We want to know! Tell us on instagram by tagging us @theshefactor.