I didn’t realize until I got to school in Boston that for most of my life I had been deprived of the foodie magic that is Trader Joe’s. With no store anywhere near my hometown (until one was built last year, thank God), I had never tried any of the really great and unique offerings. Here is a list of some of my favorite discoveries from TJ’s thus far.
Sunflower Seed Butter
Due to new allergies, I had to give up peanut butter when I was in high school. This was seriously annoying and eliminated a popular food item from my diet. But, at least in my opinion, sunflower seed butter tastes exactly the same! The Trader Joe’s version is especially great because it is all natural and less processed than most nut-based butters. This is a staple in my breakfast, lunch, and snack rotations.
Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips
I love sweet potatoes and I love tortilla chips, so these are the best of both worlds. They add some sweet to the usually salty-type chips and are a unique and yummy snack with guacamole or salsa.
White Meat Chicken Salad
I picked this up on my last visit to Trader Joe’s to make and take sandwiches to my internship. It was amazing on toasted wheat bread and kept me full through the afternoon.
Mandarin Orange Chicken
This may be the hands down best TJ’s item. Last year living off campus, my roommates and I would fight over who got to share the chicken when one of us picked this up. The chicken is crispy and the sauce is literally heaven over rice. It is super easy to make – don’t pass this up!
Cinnamon Schoolbook Cookies
On my first trip to Trader Joe’s, my California-native friend told me I had to get these. They are a delicious cinnamon biscuit and especially good dipped in vanilla frosting for the times we just need a little something extra.
If you’d like to try any of these items or are missing the goodness of TJ’s from home, the closest one to BC is in Coolidge Corner, accessible by the C line, directly on Beacon Street.
Photo Sources:
http://www.traderjoes.com/fearless-flyer/article.asp?article_id=1126
http://www.pegasusnews.com/news/2012/oct/11/deals-steals-groceries-food/
http://www.cooktj.com/node/1979
http://loricurie.wordpress.com/tag/trader-joes/
http://www.fooducate.com/app#page=product&id=C5CA52AC-4826-11E2-A40C-1231381A0463