Ever since I have started college, Trader Joe’s has been my go-to for groceries. They offer so many options, both pre-cooked, low effort options, and an abundance of fresh, and unique ingredients for when you are feeling like you belong on the Food Network Channel. When the quarter gets busy, I always turn to Trader Joe’s to help me come up with some easy and quick food options for when I am on the go, that are significantly healthier than ordering pizza or take-out to save some time. Here are some of my favorite items from Trader Joes that won’t break the bank, and will keep your hunger at bay to get you through your busy schedule.
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1. Peanut butter granola
If there’s two things I’m obsessed with, it’s peanut butter and granola… put them together and I am one happy camper! I like to use this pb granola with some banana vanilla yogurt, topped with some fresh fruit, and there ya have it; a healthy, and quick breakfast (or snack).
2. Gluten-free frozen waffles paired with almond butter
Trader Joe’s has some awesome gluten free options; my favorite, their gluten free waffles. I just pop two in the toaster while I wait for my Keurig to brew up my morning essential. To add some protein on the go, I top the waffles with some of Trader Joes almond butter (the only almond butter I have found myself to like), put the pieces together like a sandwich and munch on my bike ride to school.
3. Vanilla almond spiced chai latte
For a quick pick me up! This chai beverage is super creamy… without the dairy! I highly suggest if you want a break from coffee.
4. Honey sesame seed cashews
These nuts are the perfect twist on the protein packed cashews. The combination of the sweet honey with the salty sesame seeds on the crunchy nut makes for a satisfying study snack!
5. Olive and fig crackers with chipotle Tuscano cheese along side a Charles Shaw pinot (for when you aren’t feeling a bit pretentious)
This is my go-to spread for a girls night in. Charles Shaw has been my best friend throughout my college career… it might not be the highest quality wine, but for the low price of $2.99, I can get my wine fix.
6. Chicken pesto wrap
This wrap is definitely a go-to for those long days in the library. I usually pack half of the wrap in a container and pair it with some pita chips and some fruit. This way you get two filling meals out of this pre-made $3.99 wrap.
7. Pre-cooked grilled chicken breast strips tossed in Soyaki sauce mixed with the frozen organic brown rice packs
Trader Joes precooked chicken saves my life during midterms and finals. I just cut the chicken into smaller pieces, place in in a pan on low heat to simmer with some of Trader Joes Soyaki (their take on teriyaki sauce). While that’s heating, I place a package of trader joe’s frozen brown rice in the microwave for three minutes and it comes out perfectly soft and chewy. Throw in some steamed broccoli and ta-da, a less than gourmet, but healthy and quick take on some asian take-out
8. Black bean and cheddar burrito
For those days when I realize I missed lunch and am hangry by the time I walk in the door at night, I turn to this yummy and healthier take on a burrito. All you have to do is pop it in the microwave for two-minutes or so, slap some of Trader Joe’s remade spicy guac on a plate and waa-laa, dinner is ready… even before you have a mini mental “hungry” break down.