When it comes to stocking up on my Trader Joe’s favorites, I’ve perfected the art of fitting the best essentials into my grocery haul—especially when I’m taking the train. There’s nothing quite like the balance of satisfying snacks, fresh produce, and pantry staples that I can comfortably carry home. Here’s a list of the 11 must-have items I always make sure to pick up!
Why We Love This
Ready Pac Arugula
Arugula is one of those versatile greens I love to have on hand. Whether it’s for tossing into a salad or layering on a sandwich, its peppery bite elevates any meal.
Nutritional Facts
- 25 calories per serving
- 0g fats
- 4g carbs
- 10mg sodium
- 2g dietary fiber
- 0g sugar
- 2g protein
Ingredients
Organic arugula
Preparation Instructions
Rinse, toss, and serve raw, or sauté lightly with olive oil for a warm dish.
Versatility of Use
Great for salads, pizzas, or as a base for grain bowls.
What Customers Say
Fans love the freshness and peppery flavor that makes it stand out among typical greens.
Trader Joe’s Romaine Hearts
Romaine hearts are a staple in my grocery haul. Their crisp texture makes them ideal for salads, wraps, and even as lettuce cups.
Nutritional Facts
- 15 calories per serving
- 0g fats
- 3g carbs
- 10mg sodium
- 2g dietary fiber
- 0g sugar
- 1g protein
Ingredients
Fresh romaine hearts
Preparation Instructions
Simply rinse, chop, and enjoy raw.
Versatility of Use
Perfect for Caesar salads, lettuce wraps, and sandwich fillers.
What Customers Say
Shoppers love the consistently fresh, crunchy texture of these romaine hearts.
Dark-Chocolate-Covered Cherries
These decadent dark-chocolate-covered cherries are the perfect blend of sweet and rich flavors, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Nutritional Facts
- 130 calories per serving
- 7g fats
- 19g carbs
- 0mg sodium
- 2g dietary fiber
- 15g sugar
- 1g protein
Ingredients
Dark Chocolate (Unsweetened Chocolate Processed with Alkali, Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Powder, Milk Fat, Soy Lecithin [Emulsifier], Natural Vanilla Flavor), Dried Tart Cherries (Tart Cherries, Sugar, Sunflower Oil), Corn Dextrin, Confectioner’s Shellac.
Preparation Instructions
Eat them as they are or chop them up for dessert toppings.
Versatility of Use
A great snack on their own or mixed into a trail mix.
What Customers Say
Many rave about the perfect balance of tart cherries and smooth chocolate.
Triple-Ginger Snaps
These ginger snaps are a bold snack with a triple dose of ginger. They’re zesty, spicy, and full of flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Nutritional Facts
- 120 calories per serving
- 4.5g fats
- 18g carbs
- 180mg sodium
- 0g dietary fiber
- 9g sugar
- 1g protein
Ingredients
Unbleached Enriched Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Cane Sugar, Salted Butter (Sweet Cream [Milk] and Salt), Cane Molasses, Crystallized Ginger (Ginger and Cane Sugar), Eggs, Ginger Puree (Ginger, Acetic Acid, Xanthan Gum), Baking Soda, Ground Ginger, Salt.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy straight from the package or dip them in tea or coffee.
Versatility of Use
Crumble them over ice cream or cheesecake for added texture.
What Customers Say
Ginger lovers can’t get enough of the strong, spicy flavor packed into every bite.
Organic Freeze-Dried Berry Medley
This freeze-dried berry medley is a pantry staple. It’s light, portable, and full of flavor—ideal for snacking or adding to cereals.
Nutritional Facts
- 120 calories per serving
- 1g fats
- 29g carbs
- 0mg sodium
- 9g dietary fiber
- 16g sugar
- 2g protein
Ingredients
Organic strawberries, raspberries, blueberries.
Preparation Instructions
Eat as-is or toss them into oatmeal, yogurt, or baked goods.
Versatility of Use
Great for smoothies, snacks, or rehydrated for sauces.
What Customers Say
Many love how fresh and flavorful these berries taste, even when dried.
Lentil Soup with Ancient Grains
This hearty lentil soup is a lifesaver for quick lunches. Packed with ancient grains, it’s filling, nutritious, and flavorful.
Nutritional Facts
- 180 calories per serving
- 3g fats
- 32g carbs
- 620mg sodium
- 7g dietary fiber
- 3g sugar
- 9g protein
Ingredients
Lentils, quinoa, amaranth, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Preparation Instructions
Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Versatility of Use
Serve it with naan, over rice, or as a side to roasted vegetables.
What Customers Say
Many appreciate the hearty texture and wholesome flavors.
Channa Masala
Trader Joe’s Channa Masala is a quick and easy vegetarian meal option that’s loaded with flavor and spices.
Nutritional Facts
- 180 calories per serving
- 8g fats
- 18g carbs
- 540mg sodium
- 5g dietary fiber
- 3g sugar
- 6g protein
Ingredients
Chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, garlic, spices, and oil.
Preparation Instructions
Heat and serve with basmati rice or naan.
Versatility of Use
Pair with a side salad or grilled veggies.
What Customers Say
Customers love the authentic flavors and how easy it is to prepare.
Garlic Naan
Soft, fluffy, and infused with garlic flavor, Trader Joe’s Garlic Naan is a delicious addition to any meal.
Nutritional Facts
- 220 calories per serving
- 6g fats
- 36g carbs
- 490mg sodium
- 2g dietary fiber
- 3g sugar
- 6g protein
Ingredients
Wheat flour, yogurt, garlic, yeast, sugar.
Preparation Instructions
Heat in the oven or stovetop until warm and soft.
Versatility of Use
Perfect for scooping up curry, soup, or even as a pizza base.
What Customers Say
Shoppers rave about the soft texture and rich garlic flavor.
Trader Joe’s Truffle Aioli
This luxurious truffle aioli is the ultimate condiment for sandwiches, fries, and more.
Nutritional Facts
- 90 calories per serving
- 10g fats
- 0g carbs
- 85mg sodium
- 0g dietary fiber
- 0g sugar
- 0g protein
Ingredients
Sunflower Oil, Water, Garlic, Mustard (Mustard Seeds, Distilled Vinegar, Water, Salt), White Wine Vinegar, Salt, Black Truffle (Black Truffle, Salt), Modified Cornstarch, Natural Flavors, Xanthan Gum, Cornstarch, Fruit Juice (For Color).
Preparation Instructions
Spread on sandwiches, use as a dip, or add to sauces.
Versatility of Use
A fantastic finishing touch for burgers, roasted veggies, or fries.
What Customers Say
Many can’t believe the upscale flavor at such a reasonable price.
Bagged Citrus
Trader Joe’s bagged citrus is a fresh and convenient pick that’s perfect for snacking, juicing, or adding to dishes.
Nutritional Facts
- 60 calories per serving
- 0g fats
- 15g carbs
- 0mg sodium
- 2g dietary fiber
- 12g sugar
- 1g protein
Ingredients
Fresh citrus fruit (oranges, tangerines, etc.)
Preparation Instructions
Simply peel and enjoy, or juice for fresh citrus beverages.
Versatility of Use
Ideal for snacking, adding to salads, or zesting for recipes.
What Customers Say
Shoppers love the convenience and vibrant flavors.
Sparkling Water
Trader Joe’s sparkling water is a refreshing beverage that’s perfect for hydration with a little fizz.
Nutritional Facts
- 0 calories per serving
- 0g fats
- 0g carbs
- 0mg sodium
- 0g dietary fiber
- 0g sugar
- 0g protein
Ingredients
Carbonated water (water, carbon dioxide), natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
Chill and enjoy straight or add a splash of juice for a mocktail.
Versatility of Use
Ideal for hydrating on its own or as a mixer for drinks.
What Customers Say
Many enjoy the variety of flavors and the refreshing bubbles.
Final Say
These 11 Trader Joe’s essentials make up my perfect grocery haul, combining freshness, indulgence, and versatility in one trip. Whether I’m prepping for family meals, snacking, or cooking up something special, I can always count on these items to deliver quality and flavor. If you’re taking the train to Trader Joe’s like me, these are the must-haves to pack into your next haul!
