Trader Joe’s offers a variety of affordable, nutritious, and delicious products that fit perfectly within a $50 grocery budget. These dietitian-approved picks are not only wallet-friendly but also beloved by shoppers for their quality and taste.
1. Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup $3.49/32 Fl Oz
Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup is a rich, flavorful blend of ripe tomatoes and roasted red peppers. This soup is perfect for a quick, hearty meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 120 per serving
Total Fat: 2.5g
Sodium: 710mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 5g
Ingredients: Organic Reduced Fat Milk, Water, Organic Tomato Paste, Organic Red Bell Peppers, Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Roasted Red Bell Peppers, Roasted Garlic, Sea Salt, Organic Butter, Sodium Citrate, Organic Nonfat Dry Milk, Organic Rice Flour, Organic Garlic Powder, Organic Onion Powder, Organic Spices (Organic Black Pepper, Organic Cayenne Pepper).
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Heat the soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
2. Steamed Lentils $3.29 for 17.63 oz
Trader Joe’s Steamed Lentils are ready to eat and incredibly versatile. These lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a perfect addition to salads, soups, or as a side dish.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 120 per serving
Total Fat: 0.5g
Sodium: 230mg
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 10g
Ingredients: Lentils, Salt, Essential Oils (Cloves, Laurel, Thyme, Pepper, and Garlic).
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
These lentils are ready to eat cold or warm. To heat, place in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes. Use them as a base for salads, soups, or side dishes.
3. Cheese Tortellini $2.99 for 10 oz
Trader Joe’s Cheese Tortellini is a delicious and convenient pasta option. Filled with a blend of cheeses, these tortellini are perfect for a quick meal that feels gourmet.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 220 per serving
Total Fat: 6g
Sodium: 630mg
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 10g
Ingredients: Enriched Semolina Flour, Ricotta Cheese, Pasteurized Milk, Eggs, Water, Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Salt, Spinach Powder, Nutmeg.
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Cook in boiling water for 7-9 minutes until tender. Serve with your favorite pasta sauce or simply with olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Garlic & Herb Pizza Dough $1.79 for 16 oz
Trader Joe’s Garlic & Herb Pizza Dough makes it easy to create homemade pizzas with a flavorful twist. This dough is infused with garlic and herbs, adding an extra layer of taste to your pizza creations.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 130 per serving
Total Fat: 0.5g
Sodium: 230mg
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 4g
Ingredients: Enriched Wheat Flour, Water, Sugar, Yeast, Garlic, Salt, Italian Seasoning.
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 475°F. Roll out the dough on a floured surface, top with your favorite ingredients, and bake on a pizza stone or baking sheet for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
5. Grower’s Reserve Chardonnay $5.99 for 750 ml
Trader Joe’s Grower’s Reserve Chardonnay is a budget-friendly wine that doesn’t compromise on quality. Made from organically grown grapes, this chardonnay offers a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any occasion.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: Approximately 125 per serving (5 oz)
Ingredients: Chardonnay Grapes.
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Chill the bottle in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, from pasta to seafood.
6. All Natural Chicken Thighs $1.99/1 Lb
Trader Joe’s All Natural Chicken Thighs are a versatile and affordable protein option. These thighs are free from antibiotics and hormones, making them a healthy choice for various recipes.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 250 per serving
Total Fat: 19g
Sodium: 90mg
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 19g
Ingredients: Chicken Thighs.
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Bake in the oven at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. All Natural Shaved Beef Steak $10.99 for 1 lb
Trader Joe’s All Natural Shaved Beef Steak is perfect for quick and easy meals. This high-quality beef is shaved thin, making it ideal for stir-fries, sandwiches, and more.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 200 per serving
Total Fat: 13g
Sodium: 85mg
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 21g
Ingredients: Beef.
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shaved beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Use in sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries.
8. Vegetable and Soba Noodle Stir Fry Kit $4.49 for 12 oz
Trader Joe’s Vegetable and Soba Noodle Stir Fry Kit offers a quick and nutritious meal option. This kit includes fresh vegetables and soba noodles, making it easy to prepare a delicious stir-fry in minutes.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 160 per serving
Total Fat: 1.5g
Sodium: 630mg
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 7g
Ingredients: Broccoli Florets, Bok Choy, Savoy Cabbage, Snow Peas, Green Onion, Soba Noodles, Soy Ginger Sauce.
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes. Add the soba noodles and sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
9. Salsa Autentica $2.29/12 Oz
Trader Joe’s Salsa Autentica is a classic salsa that’s full of authentic Mexican flavor. It’s perfect for dipping, topping, or adding a little spice to your favorite dishes.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 10 per serving
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 0g
Ingredients: Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste), Yellow Chili Pepper, Salt, Distilled Vinegar, Dehydrated Onion, Garlic Powder.
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Enjoy with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or mixed into your favorite recipes for an extra kick of flavor.
10. Peanut Butter Protein Granola $3.99 for 12 oz
Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter Protein Granola is a tasty and nutritious snack. Packed with protein and the rich flavor of peanut butter, it’s perfect for breakfast or an on-the-go snack.
Nutritional Facts and Ingredients:
Calories: 260 per serving
Total Fat: 12g
Sodium: 160mg
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 11g
Ingredients: Rolled Oats, Peanuts, Peanut Butter, Cane Sugar, Pea Protein Crisps (Pea Protein, Rice Flour), Brown Rice Syrup, Water, Canola Oil, Pea Protein, Oat Syrup Solids, Natural Flavors, Sea Salt, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E for Freshness).
Preparation/Cooking Instructions:
Enjoy as a snack on its own, with milk or yogurt, or as a topping for smoothie bowls.
With these top 10 finds from Trader Joe’s, you can easily stick to a $50 budget while enjoying a variety of nutritious and delicious foods. These dietitian-approved products are not only affordable but also beloved by shoppers for their quality and taste.
