A Girl and Trader Joes: A Modern Day Love Story
By Annabelle Fulton
There are two types of people when it comes to food: those who eat to live and those who live to eat. I live to eat - constantly thinking about my next meal. So, if you’re like me and always checking menus before you get to the restaurant - listen here. Trader Joes will change your life.
Must I ring off the reasons why I love it? Sure. Why not.
“There are two types of people when it comes to food: those who eat to live and those who live to eat”
THE SAMPLES. OMG.
Every single, and I mean every single day, they have free samples. Not the plain, old, boring Costco samples, but samplings of beautiful, gourmet products like burrata. Yes, burrata. And what’s even better is that it is unlimited. In all honesty, I go in expecting a meal (also it’s near Chopt if the sample wasn’t calling your name that day). Make sure to go hungry.
The Prices
It’s Whole Foods food without those prices. I can get a cart full for 80$. Keep in mind that I never really need my own cart full, but I do it because that place gets me. A banana is 0.19$ compared to Whole Foods’ 0.49$. Doesn’t feel like a huge difference, but trust me - it adds up.
The People
Not to be dramatic, but the people there are literally angels, sent from heaven to supply me with cauliflower gnocchi. But actually, Chik-Fil-A and Trader Joes are a league of their own. The kindest, most wholesome people. They want to help so badly, it makes my heart sing.
The Products
Ok, ok, what you’ve all been waiting for. The actual food. If you’re not familiar with the store, Trader Joes only carries their own brand. It’s different from a Publix because stores like those carry Oreos and Pop Tarts, all recognizable products that can be found everywhere. Trader Joes is its own brand. Their produce is good along with their meats, cheeses, and the works. But their shining star, in my opinion with exception of a few items, is their freezer section. Unreal. I’ve never been a frozen dinner type of girl, but I dream about this stuff.
Here is what I love, and trust me I’ve tried it all (almost :)) -
Frozen Croissants - Easiest, most yummy thing ever. I swear by them. Stick them in the oven on a sheet pan and it’ll feel like you’re in France. I get the chocolate ones. Amazing.
Chocolate Croissants
Source: One Food Guy Blog
Sweet Potato Gnocchi - Everyone freaks about the cauliflower gnocchi, but I gotta say, I’m not a huge fan. I think the sweet potato one is much better. Add a little sage butter - so yummy.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Source: Exploring Trader Joes Blog
Everything But the Bagel Seasoning - If you haven’t heard of this - I’m really not sure why you haven’t. Recently, I’ve been putting it on just a fried egg. It makes the flavor so much better. Just make sure to brush your teeth right after. Onion alert!
Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
Source: Amazon
Chicken Tikka Masala - Such an easy meal to make. It’s microwavable, which has never really been my thing, but it is so so so good. Try it!
Chicken Tikka Masala
Source: Delish
