Tasty Finds at Trader Joe’s
At some point over the last few years I have developed a passion for discovering unusual, tasty foods and unique ingredients at a grocery stores. I’m always on the lookout for new snacks and ways to add a little spice to a life of healthy eating. I never know what I’ll find, and don’t always make the best decisions, but sometimes that’s part of the fun!
One of my favorite places to wander the aisles in search of new finds is Trader Joe’s.
If you haven’t heard of it, it’s a natural based grocery store chain with very affordable prices and interesting twists on common foods, all with a fun island vibe. They have beautiful organic produce, a delicious wine and beer selection, an array of unique meats and cheeses, and plenty of tasty frozen treats. They even have a fabulous floral section! If you don’t live close to one, maybe you have a friend who does? I promise it’ll be worth checking in to.
Last week I made a visit to the Trader Joe’s in downtown Boise, and like always, I left with a cart full of tasty finds. I’ll share the items I bought in case you find yourself there soon and are looking for some new fun things to try. Their inventory is pretty consistent (unlike Costco) so if you find something once, you’ll most likely find it again (unless its seasonal). That’s one of the perks of this place. Fun, consistent, unique organic foods at great prices!
My shopping method
I don’t usually have an agenda when I’m shopping. It all depends on the amount of time I have and what sounds good at that particular moment. Sometimes I focus on healthy kid snacks, but most of the time it’s all about me. : ) The only section I usually avoid completely is the frozen food aisle, only because rarely do I have the ability to get those products home and in the freezer in time. If you are lucky enough to have a Trader Joes close to home, definitely take a few minutes to peruse the frozen food aisle.
This trip to Trader Joe’s was all about healthy snacks and entertaining foods. We often have friends drop by for a glass of wine (or two) and I love introducing them to fun new food finds. Also, spending so much time at home lately requires lots of snacking, and I’m always looking for alternatives to chips, crackers and processed foods (especially for my kids).
After taste-testing, there were a few things I didn’t enjoy as much as I was hoping I would, but I figured I’d write about everything I bought in case you’re thinking about trying them yourself. Enjoy!
Here’s what I bought
marcona & guara almonds
These almonds have long been one of my favorite go-to snacks. They’re similar to regular almonds without the skins, are a bit larger in size and have a slightly sweeter taste. They’re great for snacking and baking. And guess what’s even better? They have a truffle salt version! Say what???
I might have a slight (by slight I mean huge) truffle salt addiction. If you’re like me and can’t get enough of the stuff, you have to get your hands on these pronto!
Parsnips
Ever heard of them? They’re a relatively uncommon veggie, but the flavor is so unique, you have to give ‘em a try! I would describe them as a cross between a potato and carrot, with a somewhat sweet, earthy flavor. I know they lack in personal appearance, but their taste might surprise you, in a good way.
They’re delicious when sliced, drizzled with olive oil and roasted in a 400° oven for about 20 minutes. I usually add carrots and onions too, but any veggies are great. You can find them at nearly any grocery store, I just happened to run across them so I threw them in my cart!
Micro greens
These are one of my most recent food addictions for sure. They’re mini greens that are similar in flavor to broccoli, pea shoots, arugula, bean sprouts, etc. They are the perfect addition to sandwiches and salads, add an extra level of fanciness to any prepared meal or charcuterie board.
For as little as they are they can be quite pricey for what you get. So, be sure to eat them within a few days before they loose their crunch.
Moms: they’re a great way to get your kids to eat their greens. They’re ‘micro’ enough to hide in just about anything!
Spicy chakra mix
This Indian style snack mix is made of peanuts, chickpeas, rice flakes and curry leaves with a slightly spicy curry kick!! Not super high on the ‘healthy scale’ but delicious none-the-less! If you like ethnic Indian flavors you’ll love them!
They’d be a perfect movie night snack paired with a nice cold beer!
Broccoli florets
Often times ‘healthy food’ is synonymous with ‘no flavor’ or ‘tastes like grass’. And maybe I have grown accustomed to the flavor of ‘healthy food’, but there are always exceptions. Friends, meet broccoli florets. I really want to love these, but even my healthy heart can’t bare to swallow them, literally. Do I think there’s a place for them? Sure, maybe crunched up on a salad or pizza for an added crunch? But as a chip replacement? Nope.
Would I buy these again? Probably not, but I really am glad I tried them. Once.
Olive tapenade
I’m a huge tapenade fan. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s an italian inspired spread made of of minced olives, capers and spices that is usually served with crackers or baguette. If you crave salty things and love olives, you’ve gotta try this! I’lll admit it doesn’t photograph well, but the taste makes up for it!
I’d highly recommend having a container of this around to serve unexpected, last minute guests. It’s a simple appetizer or snack that I’m sure all your guests will love!
Dark chocolate Crisps
Ok friends, you know when I said I don’t eat sweets much? Well, this is one exceptions to the rule. If you are like me and only need an occasional touch of sweetness and you love rich, dark chocolate, look no further! They’re so thin and crispy, and they have little crunchy rice flakes in them which adds a great texture!
I’ve finally found the perfect sweet treat to compliment a glass of wine or shot of espresso. I highly recommend you add them to your cart next time you’re at TJ’s. But, don’t make the mistake I did and only buy one box. Get two… or three. You’re welcome.
cassava & coconut tortilla chips
Cassava is a starchy tropical root that is high in protein and vitamin C. Mixed with coconut, these chips are light and crispy, exactly what I was hoping for. They do have a hint of coconut flavor, but not enough to interfere with anything they’d be served with. I’ll definitely be buying these again.
English peas
These little guys are kind of hard to find, but when you do, snag ‘em up! They’re fresh, crunchy spring peas that are a great addition to any salad, pasta, or soup. Sometimes I even pop them in my mouth right out of the bag!
Italian nocellara olives
If you’re an olive person, these are a must-try! They’re the perfect addition to any charcuterie platter, and they’re great for snacking too. They do have pits though, so be careful not to chip a tooth.
If you’re looking for the perfect addition to a dry martini though, keep walking. These olives are preserved in a light oil which would make them less than ideal for the fancy ‘shaken, not stirred’ cocktail.
Lemon curd
If you are a citrus fan, you have to try lemon curd. If you’re unfamiliar with it, it’s a thick, jelly-like spread usually intended for breakfast treats such as scones, muffins, waffles & pancakes. We use it in homemade crepes sprinkled with a hint of powdered sugar. So delicious! Watch out though, that citrus explosion will get your mouth puckerin’!
Organic dehydrated rainbow carrots
If you enjoy the taste of cardboard, this is your ideal snack. Ok, maybe they’re not that bad, but they’re definitely close.
Don’t let the beautiful photo on the package fool you like it did me. Let them stay right on the shelf where they can sit and look pretty.
Finally, if you have spoiled furry friends like I do, you have to try the B.I.Y. (bake it yourself) dog biscuit mix. They’re simple to make, and customizable to your pet’s liking. We chose to add peanut butter and bacon, which was an obvious hit! Just remember, once you bake them, keep them in the fridge so they don’t spoil. Your creatures will love you!
There you have it, my collection of fun finds at Trader Joe’s. If you have any staples you get when you go, I’d love to hear about them!
Ultimately, Trader Joe’s is the perfect place to experiment with new, unique foods. Their prices are very affordable and their selection is always great. And, if you’re ever there during the holidays, stock up! They have some of the most amazing seasonal foods around!
Happy shopping!
