I love Trader Joe’s and I find myself putting the same things in my cart all the time. But from time to time I put a few new items in my cart. This is a round up favorite Trader Joe’s summer staples you will find in my home, and maybe they will end up in your cart next time you go to Trader Joe’s!
#1 – Jerk Chicken Thigh Skewers
I love these because they are fully cooked. This just makes my life easy. Re-heat in the microwave or on a grill; it’s as if this product is made for busy moms or dorm students. The mango chutney is delicious and compliments the spicy chicken.
If you are able to save half of the sauce packet (this is a real challenge), you can use it on top of Jasmine rice or with your next charcuterie board.
#2 – Marinated Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
These come in an Italian oil blend and the mozzarella are small balls (think the small melon ball sized). I like to take fresh basil and wrap it around one and pop it in my mouth for a refreshing snack. Add the cheese to a salad and drizzle balsamic dressing over it. I have also added the whole container to cooked pasta instead of adding butter or sauce.
#3 – Cut Beets in Vinaigrette
I love to add these to my salads during the summer because the vinaigrette adds extra zing. I have been spotted eating these out of the fridge when searching for a late-night snack. Also try sprinkling the Chili Lime Seasoning Blend on top!
Trying to eat Whole 30? Take these beets, avocados, a sprinkle of Everything But The Bagel on top, and a squeeze of lemon for a tasty “salad.” If you need extra protein, add in chicken sausage too.
#4 – Marinated Artichokes
One of my favorite ways to use these is on top of pizza. I often will purchase frozen four cheese pizzas and I will drain some artichokes and place them with the refrigerated, cooked cubed chicken on one side of the frozen four cheese pizza. This way my kid can have cheese and I will have chicken, artichoke, cheese pizza. I also will eat this late night with the cut beets in vinaigrette, and some crumbled feta cheese on top.
#5 – “PB & J” Snack Duo
I’m honestly surprised I was able to take a picture of the box. These favorite Trader Joe’s summer staples are inhaled by my teenager. You get to enjoy peanut butter without all the mess. If your kid (or you) wants to enjoy these as a dessert, crumble the peanut wafers on top of strawberry ice cream, and save the jam part for toast the next morning. (I heard these are being discontinued – so stock up!)
#6 – Organic Banana Fruit Spread
On the subject of desserts, I love to use this fruit spread as a dessert parfait. I like to crumble the waffle cone cookies, then banana fruit spread, then vanilla Greek yogurt. Add a couple of layers of those three items. Then top it off with coconut whipped cream and dried bananas on top. It is very filling.
#7 – Sparkling Watermelon Juice
Nothing says summer like watermelon! This summer I feel I have definitely gone down the rabbit hole on the
watermelon craze. I have like 5 things in my fridge/freezer with watermelon in it. These are very tasty and if you drink alcohol, you will enjoy these even more.
#8 – Raspberry, Lemon, & Strawberry Fruit Frenzy Bars
So besides eating them frozen as bars, I like to chop them up into bite sized cubes and adding them to Raspberry Sparkling Soda! It really adds flavor to your tastebuds. If you drink alcohol, add gin or vodka to your glass as well.
There you have it! 8 favorite Trader Joe’s summer staples that are always in my house during the summer, and now hopefully will be in your home too! Comment on your favorite item(s) to have in your home during the summer!