If you know me, you know that Trader Joe’s is by far my favorite place to shop for groceries. It’s like the creators said, “we’ve got this chick here, how do we make a store just for her?” Since I’m single, live alone, like to cook (within reason), and kinda-sorta want stuff to be healthy, Trader Joe’s is my small portions meets pre-made meets organic Eden. Plus, for most products, it’s fairly inexpensive.
If you’re unfamiliar with TJ’s, need more ideas for products to buy there, or just want to get giddy with me about their branded items (I’ll talk about non-branded another time), here are some of my recent and most re-purchased goods from Trader Joe’s.
1. Trader Joe’s organic virgin coconut oil
I mostly use this for cooking, but I’ve slathered it on my face and body as a moisturizer, too. This stuff is super versatile and affordable at TJ’s.
2. Trader Joe’s Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
I’ve used this in a couple of recipes on the site, but most of the time I can be found dousing this on any old thing I’m smooshing into my gob. It’s so good.
3. Spices galore
This facet of TJ’s requires a little bit of price matching to make sure you’re getting a good deal, but a few of their signature spices are definitely worth snatching up. 21 Seasoning Salute is a particular fave of mine, especially with chicken or burgers. Here’s what makes up the 21: onion, black pepper, celery seed, cayenne pepper, parsley, basil, marjoram, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, savory, rosemary, cumin, mustard, coriander, garlic, carrot, orange peel, tomato, lemon juice, and lemon oil.
4. Organic liquid stevia
This is my primary coffee and tea sweetener since the ingredients are super limited, it doesn’t need to dissolve in the liquid, and it lasts forever. Plus, I can use it in recipes, too. 461 servings in that little jar alone!
5. Trader Joe’s teas
TJ’s could use more decaf options, but their flavors are on point. My fave is the loose-leaf coconut green tea shown above. Their seasonal flavors are awesome too, but aren’t available year-round for obvious reasons. Vanilla and cinnamon flavor around the holidays makes my life!
6. Sublingual B12 (hidden behind the seaweed in the photo!)
I take B12 in my vitamin lineup and this one is dirt cheap compared to some. The combo of vitamins is perfect for me and I keep on buying more. Definitely keep an eyeball on TJ’s for vitamin needs.
7. Roasted veggie snacks like seaweed, green beans, and kale chips
I love roasted seaweed and dehydrated veggies. The selection at TJ’s isn’t fabulous (you’ll probably find more at larger grocery stores or CostCo), but the price is right and it’s good for singletons who don’t go through a lot of food quickly. TJ’s knows it’s small portion market well. Plus, the kale chips taste like Doritos to me.
8. Trader Joe’s baking goods like almond meal and coconut flour
This is where their prices shine. I can always get these at such a good deal compared to regular stores. I’ll be using their coconut flour in an upcoming dessert recipe along with the coconut oil. Noms.
What products are you buying at Trader Joe’s these days?