Trader Joe’s: A Wonderland of Culinary Delights!
Transatlantic Treasures 10 Must-Have Finds at Trader Joe's for British Expats in the US
As a Brit who moved to the US, Trader Joe’s quickly became my go-to store. Here are my top 10 things to get there.
Image: Trader Joe’s Store Selfie of the writer in front of Trader Joe’s. Emma Kershaw
Ah, Trader Joe’s! The holy grail of grocery shopping. Moving from the UK to the US, I knew I had found my new fashion-forward food haven. It’s like stepping into a magical wardrobe filled with tasty treasures and fabulous finds.
Now, let’s dive into the wonders that await us at Trader Joe’s. Buckle up, fashionistas, because we are about to embark on a shopping journey like no other.
1. Teeny-Tiny Avocados: The Avocado Love Affair
Who doesn’t love avocado? But let’s face it, they always seem to go bad before we can finish them. Well, fear no more! Trader Joe’s has come to the rescue with their teeny-tiny avocados. These little gems are perfect for those of us living the single life. They make single servings a breeze!
Grab a pouch of these mini avocados, add some lime juice and seasonings, and BAM! Guacamole time! Slice them up for salads and sandwiches, or simply enjoy them as a snack. At just $3.50 a pouch, your avocado dreams have come true.
2. Mandarin-Orange Chicken: Takeout at Home
Craving takeout but don’t want to break the bank? Trader Joe’s has got your back, my fashion-forward friends. Their Mandarin-Orange Chicken is the answer to all your takeout desires. The perfect blend of sweetness and spiciness, this chicken is a taste sensation. Cook it on the stove, and the battered meat crisps up beautifully. Serve it alongside Trader Joe’s vegetable fried rice for a complete meal. And all of this deliciousness for just $5. Your taste buds and your wallet will thank you.
3. Green Goddess Dressing: The Salad Connoisseur’s Secret Weapon
Move over boring salads, it’s time to elevate our lunchtime meals. Trader Joe’s Green Goddess dressing is here to save the day! Creamy yet light, this dressing contains avocado, green onion, lemon juice, and a whole lot of flavor. Drizzle it on top of salads or use it as a dip for your favorite veggies. It’s like a fashionable makeover for your greens. Trust me, this dressing will become your new refrigerator staple. Get your bottle of style for just $4.
4. Lemony Arugula-Basil Salad Kit: Quick and Delicious
When the summer heat is unbearable, but you still want something fresh and flavorful, Trader Joe’s lemony arugula-basil salad kit comes to the rescue. No more chopping ingredients! This kit has got you covered with arugula, carrots, almonds, Parmesan cheese, and a mouthwatering basil-lemon vinaigrette. Mix it all together, and voila! Instant deliciousness for those lazy summer days. Top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for that extra oomph. And for just $4, it’s a steal!
5. Garlic Naan: Get Your Pizza Fix
Who says fashion and pizza can’t go hand in hand? Trader Joe’s garlic naan begs to differ! Sure, it’s great as a side dish for curry nights, but let’s take it to the next level. Cover a piece of naan with marinara sauce, your favorite shredded cheese, and all the toppings your fashionable heart desires. Pop it in the oven and watch as the flavors mingle to create a pizza masterpiece. At just $3 for a package of four, you’ll be having a pizza party every night!
6. Cauliflower Gnocchi: Comfort Food Redefined
Who says comfort food can’t be healthy? Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi is here to prove us wrong. Swap out the traditional potato gnocchi for this lighter alternative. Pair it with your favorite pasta sauce or pesto, and you’re in for a treat. Or get adventurous and try a quick and easy soup recipe, because who doesn’t love a good TikTok find? Just add chicken sausages, spinach, and a package of cauliflower gnocchi to a tomato-soup base, and you’ve got a cozy bowl of deliciousness. All of this for just $3.30! Comfort food that won’t weigh you down, it’s a win-win!
7. Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers: Bite Into Flavor
When you’re in the mood for a veggie burger that’s not afraid to pack a punch, turn to Trader Joe’s quinoa cowboy version. These patties are a fashion statement on their own. Made from multicolored quinoa, corn, red pepper, and black beans, they offer the perfect balance of heat and satisfaction. Bake them in the oven for that delightful crunch, and top them with avocado, onion, tomato, and cheese. A quick, delicious weeknight dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. And all of this fashion for just $4.
8. Gluten-Free Breaded Shrimp: Seafood Delight
Calling all seafood lovers, Trader Joe’s has something special for you. Their gluten-free breaded shrimp is a game-changer. These succulent shrimp come pre-breaded, making them the epitome of convenience. Cook them to crispy perfection on the stove, and you’ll have yourself a feast fit for a fashionista. Dip them in your favorite sauce or create some banging shrimp tacos. The possibilities are endless. Get your seafood fix for just $10.
9. Italian Tomato-and-Burrata Ravioloni: Pasta Paradise
Craving a taste of Italy? Look no further than Trader Joe’s tomato-and-burrata ravioloni. These heavenly pillows of pasta will transport you to the streets of Rome with just one bite. Cook them up in a pot of salted water for a mere five minutes. Pair them with pesto and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a traditional experience or create a prep-ahead-of-time pasta salad. This dish is versatile, delicious, and only $4. Fashion and flavor have never looked better together.
10. Silver Dollar Pancakes: The Pancake Diva’s Dream
Calling all pancake enthusiasts who just can’t seem to make a perfect stack themselves. Trader Joe’s silver dollar pancakes are here to save the day. These bite-sized beauties are versatile for any time of day. Add some fruit and chocolate sauce for a sweet dessert or go for the classic combo of crispy bacon and syrup for a brunch extravaganza. Pop them in the microwave for one minute, because who has time to waste on cooking? At just $3.30 a package, you can have a pancake feast without breaking a sweat.
So, my fellow fashion-forward foodies, I hope this journey through Trader Joe’s culinary wonderland has made your taste buds tingle and your fashion sense sing. These gastronomic delights are just a sneak peek into the world of possibilities waiting for you at Trader Joe’s. Visit the store and let your fashion flag fly high as you indulge in these delicious finds.
Have you explored Trader Joe’s fashion-forward food paradise? Share your favorite discoveries and unique recipes in the comments below. Let’s embark on this tasty adventure together!
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Author: Emma Kershaw
