12 Must-Have Trader Joe’s Picks: Which Are Worth Your Cart Space?

Trader Joe’s is a treasure trove of unique and exciting products, but with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help you navigate the aisles, we’ve handpicked 12 must-have items that deserve a spot in your cart. From everyday essentials to indulgent treats, these products are sure to impress. But which ones are truly worth the buy? Let’s dive in and find out!

1. Trader Joe’s Sriracha Flavored Baked Tofu $3.99/7 oz

trader-joes_organic_baked_sriracha_tofu
kiliweb per Open Food Facts

Trader Joe’s Sriracha Flavored Baked Tofu is a convenient, plant-based protein option that’s ready to eat right out of the package. Marinated in a spicy Sriracha sauce, this tofu offers a kick of heat that pairs well with a variety of dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size:  3.5 oz (99g)
  • Calories: 140
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 440mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 15g

Ingredients

  • Tofu (Water, Soybeans, Magnesium Chloride, Calcium Sulfate)
  • Sriracha Chili Sauce (Red Chili Peppers, Distilled Vinegar, Garlic Powder, Sugar, Salt, Spice)
  • Water
  • Chili Flakes
  • Cornstarch

Preparation Instructions

Simply slice and enjoy in sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries. For added texture, pan-fry until golden brown and crispy.

2. Trader Joe’s Popcorn In a Pickle $2.29/5 Oz

tj_popcorn-in-a-pickle

Trader Joe’s Popcorn In a Pickle is a unique and tangy snack that combines the crunch of popcorn with the zesty flavor of dill pickles. If you’re a fan of the bold taste of pickles, this popcorn offers a perfect combination of savory, salty, and tangy notes that make it a one-of-a-kind snack.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: about 2 cups (30g)
  • Calories: 160
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 310mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 2g

Ingredients

  • Popcorn
  • Sunflower Oil And/Or Safflower Oil
  • Dill Pickle Seasoning (Dextrin, Salt, Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, Dill Oil)

Preparation Instructions

Enjoy Popcorn In a Pickle straight out of the bag as a tangy snack. It’s perfect for movie nights, picnics, or whenever you’re craving something salty and unique. Pair it with a cold drink for an extra refreshing snack experience.

3. Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles $2.99/21 Oz

Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles are a versatile and flavorful base for a variety of Thai-inspired dishes. These noodles are made from whole wheat flour, offering a chewy and satisfying texture that pairs well with a variety of sauces, vegetables, and proteins. They cook quickly and are ideal for creating a quick, nutritious meal with an authentic Thai flair.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 package (198g)
  • Calories: 310
  • Total Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 130mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 63g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 10g

Ingredients

  • Wheat Flour
  • Water
  • Wheat Gluten
  • Modified Tapioca Starch
  • Rice Bran Oil
  • Sea Salt

Preparation Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  • Add the Thai Wheat Noodles and cook for 4-5 minutes or until al dente.
  • Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  • Toss the noodles with your favorite sauce, vegetables, and protein, or use them in soups, salads, or stir-fries.

4. Trader Joe’s Ketchup Flavored Sprinkle Seasoning Blend $2.99/2.6 oz

This Ketchup Flavored Sprinkle Seasoning Blend from Trader Joe’s is designed to give you the classic taste of ketchup in a versatile seasoning form. Perfect for adding a tomato-y tang to fries, burgers, or even popcorn, this seasoning offers endless culinary possibilities.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1/4 tsp (1g)
  • Calories: 0
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 0g

Ingredients

  • Tomato powder
  • Vinegar powder
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • Onion powder
  • Spices

Preparation Instructions

Sprinkle on fries, popcorn, or any dish where you’d normally use ketchup for a burst of flavor without the mess.

5. Trader Joe’s Organic Sparkling Lemon + Strawberry Apple Cider Vinegar Beverage $1.99/12 oz

This refreshing sparkling beverage combines the tartness of apple cider vinegar with the sweetness of lemon and strawberry. It’s a lightly carbonated drink that’s organic, low-calorie, and perfect for a healthy refreshment.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 can (355ml)
  • Calories: 35
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 0g

Ingredients

  • Carbonated Water (Water, Carbon Dioxide)
  • Organic Apple Juice Concentrate
  • Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
  • Organic Lemon Juice Concentrate
  • Organic Strawberry Juice Concentrate
  • Natural Flavors
  • Fruit And Vegetable Juice (For Color)

Preparation Instructions

Chill and enjoy straight from the can, or pour over ice for a cool, refreshing drink.

6. Trader Joe’s Zhoug Sauce $3.49/8 oz

Trader Joe’s Zhoug Sauce is a spicy, vibrant green sauce with Yemeni roots. Made with cilantro, jalapeño peppers, and a blend of spices, this sauce is perfect for adding a fiery kick to sandwiches, dips, and grilled meats.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 2 tbsp (30g)
  • Calories: 90
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Dietary Fiber: less than 1g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: less than 1g

Ingredients

  • Cilantro
  • Canola oil
  • Jalapeño peppers
  • Chile flakes
  • Garlic
  • Cardamom
  • Sea salt
  • Cumin seed

Preparation Instructions

Use as a condiment, dip, or marinade. Try mixing it into yogurt for a creamy dip or spreading it on sandwiches for an extra kick.

7. Trader Joe’s Organic Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls $4.99/17.5 Oz

Trader Joe’s Organic Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful, ready-to-bake treat that brings the comfort of homemade cinnamon rolls right to your kitchen. These rolls are made with organic ingredients and are generously swirled with sweet cinnamon filling. They bake up soft, fluffy, and perfectly gooey, making them an ideal choice for a decadent breakfast or brunch.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 roll with icing (99g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 53g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 4g

Ingredients

Cinnamon Roll (Organic Wheat Flour, Water, Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Palm Oil, Baking Powder [Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate], Organic Expeller-Pressed Sunflower Oil, Organic Cinnamon, Sea Salt, Organic Tapioca Starch, Xanthan Gum), Vanilla Icing (Organic Cane Sugar, Water, Organic Invert Cane Syrup, Organic Palm Fruit Oil, Organic Tapioca Starch, Sea Salt, Organic Rice Extract, Organic Guar Gum, Organic Locust Bean Gum, Xanthan Gum, Organic Natural Flavors).

Preparation Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Open the can and place the rolls in a greased baking pan.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Allow the rolls to cool slightly, then spread the included icing over the warm rolls.
  • Serve warm and enjoy the rich, cinnamon-swirled goodness.

8. Trader Joe’s Sour Cream & Onion Flavored Rings $1.99/2.5 Oz

Trader Joe’s Sour Cream & Onion Flavored Rings are a crunchy, savory snack made from lentils and rice, offering a healthier twist on the classic sour cream and onion flavor. These rings are light, crispy, and packed with the tangy taste of sour cream and onion, making them a perfect snack for those looking for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1oz (28g/about 24 pieces)
  • Calories: 130
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: less than 1g
  • Protein: 4g

Ingredients

Red Lentils, Rice Meal, Canola Oil, Sour Cream and Onion Seasoning (Salt, Whey Powder [Milk], Tapioca Dextrose, Natural Flavor, Buttermilk Solids, Onion Powder, Sour Cream Powder [Cultured Cream, Nonfat Dry Milk], Dried Parsley, Yeast Extract, Nonfat Dry Milk, Spice, Contains 2% or Less of Calcium Carbonate, Annatto Extract [For Color], Rosemary Oleoresin [To Preserve]).

Preparation Instructions

Enjoy these rings straight out of the bag as a snack or pair them with your favorite dip for an extra burst of flavor. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or just satisfying your afternoon cravings.

9. Trader Joe’s Gone Bananas! $2.49/8 Oz

Trader Joe’s Gone Bananas! is a delightful frozen treat that features slices of ripe banana covered in a rich, smooth dark chocolate coating. These bite-sized pieces offer a perfect balance of sweetness from the banana and slight bitterness from the dark chocolate, making them an indulgent yet refreshing snack. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to enjoy on a warm day or a quick sweet fix, Gone Bananas! is a great option to keep in your freezer.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 4 pieces (43g)
  • Calories: 100
  • Total Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Sodium: 20mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: less than 1g

Ingredients

  • Banana
  • Dark Chocolate (Cane Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Mass, Cocoa Powder, Soy Lecithin, Skim Milk Powder, Natural Vanilla Flavor)
  • Coconut Oil

Preparation Instructions

Keep frozen until ready to eat. Simply take out a few pieces as needed and enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cool, creamy, and chocolatey treat. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

10. Trader Joe’s Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions $9.99/1 Lb

This English Farmhouse cheddar cheese is blended with sweet caramelized onions, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Trader Joe’s Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions is rich, creamy, and offers a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or fruit.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 oz (28g)
  • Calories: 110
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Sodium: 190mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 6g

Ingredients

  • Cheddar Cheese (Pasteurized Cows Milk, Salt, Microbial Rennet, Starter Culture)
  • Caramelized Onion (Onion, Cane Sugar, Pectin, Cider Vinegar, Red Currant Juice, Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Clove, Cinnamon, Ginger)

Preparation Instructions

Enjoy this cheese with crackers or bread, or melt it over a burger for a gourmet twist. It also makes an excellent addition to a cheese board.

11. Trader Joe’s Organic Cacio e Pepe Puffs $2.49/4.9 oz

Inspired by the classic Italian dish, these Organic Cacio e Pepe Puffs from Trader Joe’s are a light and crispy snack made from corn and rice. They’re seasoned with cheese and pepper, delivering the familiar flavors of cacio e pepe in a snackable form.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups (30g)
  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Sodium: 230mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Organic Corn Meal, Organic High-Oleic Sunflower Oil, Organic Brown Rice Flour, Organic Seasoning Blend (Organic Tapioca Starch, Salt, Organic Black Pepper, Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Romano Cheese [Organic Milk, Salt, Cheese Cultures, Microbial Enzyme], Organic Cheese Blend [Organic Buttermilk, Organic Nonfat Dry Milk, Organic Butter {Organic Sweet Cream, Salt}, Organic Cheddar Cheese {Organic Milk, Salt, Cheese Cultures, Microbial Enzyme}, Salt, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid {Acidifier}, Lactic Acid Starter Culture], Organic Natural Flavors, Organic Onion Powder, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid [Acidulant], Organic White Pepper).

Preparation Instructions

Enjoy these puffs as a light snack straight from the bag, or pair them with a sandwich for a satisfying meal.

12. Trader Joe’s PB&J Snack Duo $3.99/12.7 oz

Trader Joe’s PB&J Snack Duo offers a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. This snack features crispy peanut butter-filled wafer sticks paired with a raspberry fruit dip, making it a convenient and tasty treat for on-the-go snacking.

Nutritional Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 pack (60g)
  • Calories: 270
  • Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 21g
  • Protein: 8g

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Wafer Sticks (Peanut Butter [Roasted Peanuts], Wheat Flour, Cane Sugar, Nonfat Milk Powder, Sheanut Oil [Sheanut Oil, Sunflower Lecithin, Citric Acid {Acidifier}], Egg Powder, Sea Salt, Coconut Oil [Coconut Oil, Sunflower Lecithin, Citric Acid {Acidifier}], Sunflower Lecithin, Natural Flavors, Invert Sugar, Caramel Color [Sugar, Water]), Raspberry Fruit Dip (Glucose Syrup [Corn, Wheat], Raspberries, Lemon Juice Concentrate).

Preparation Instructions

Dip the peanut butter-filled wafer sticks into the raspberry fruit dip and enjoy. This snack is perfect for lunchboxes or as an afternoon treat.

Conclusion

From pantry staples to indulgent treats, these 12 Trader Joe’s picks have something for everyone. Whether you’re stocking up on essentials or looking to try something new, these products are sure to make your shopping trip worthwhile. So, the next time you’re at Trader Joe’s, don’t forget to add these items to your cart—they’re truly worth the space!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.