While we were living on Long Island, Trader Joe’s was just 5 miles away, a quick 10-15 minute ride. Now that we live in the country of East Tennessee, it takes 45 minutes to get to the one and only store here in Knoxville. Thankfully, the girls’ weekly activities bring us nearby, and I try to make a stop there once a week.
So, I am never without my favorite things from Trader Joes – here are 10 items I am always sure to grab when I make a stop at Trader Joe’s…
Eucalyptus. I love to hang eucalyptus in the shower, and the spa-like scent it adds to the bathroom. This plant (and essential oil) is also known for its respiratory benefits, promoting clear breathing, alleviating nasal congestion, and purifying the air.
Vegetable Samosas. In one word, YUM! I always grab a couple of these boxes. I just wish Trader Joe’s came up with a dipping sauce to go with these samosas – like a mango chutney or something sweet to work with the delicious spices.
Peanut Butter Cups. Now usually I like my peanut butter cups to be milk chocolate but, the first time I grabbed these at checkout, my mind (and tastebuds) was blown. I’ll usually open these up for the ride home as a treat for myself. At just 99 cents you can’t go wrong.
Toasted Sesame Dressing. My mom shared a sesame dressing she picked up at Costco, and I was immediately hooked. I don’t have a Costco membership at the moment so, when I spotted this at TJ’s I knew I had to grab it. This tastes amazing on a salad or as a dip – ya know, if the kiddos don’t eat all of their chicken nuggets.
Mac n Cheese. Nora is our resident M+C connoisseur, and she gives this one two thumbs up. It’s just $1.39 a box, (way cheaper than any you’ll find at the supermarket) and it’s organic! Win-win.
Herbs de Provence. I often check the spice collection when I’m at a grocery store. I’m usually looking for sales or items I haven’t tried before. Cue in Herbs de Provence, I love to add this to our chicken – with 2 tablespoons EVOO, and a bit of lemon juice. A quick and easy dinner that everyone loves!
Charlee Bears. These were introduced to our family by my mother in-law, and they are a huge hit with Roxy. I make sure to pick up a bag for her daily training sessions.
White Truffle Potato Chips. I have to hide these. The word got out around here. Everyone loves them. In fact, Nora just talked about them, and said “mmmm, I love those mushroom chips!” Yea, I told them they were made of mushrooms so they wouldn’t eat them. It didn’t work.
Double Chocolate Hot Cocoa Stirring Spoon. At just 99 cents, it’s a no brainer. The girls love hot cocoa, and these make the experience a bit more fancy then just pouring powder out of a packet. Must have for the colder months ahead.
Apple Cider Hand Soap. I picked up this foaming hand soap a few weeks ago to see how it would fare against the Mrs. Meyers version. And, let me tell you, it’s better! At just $2.99, you should pick up a batch to last you all season. That was my mistake. I grabbed one, went back and they were all gone. Rats!
What are some of your favorites from Trader Joe’s?