Favorite Trader Joes Products: Proteins
It is no secret that I am a huge Trader Joe’s fan. I love everything about this magical little grocery store! There is just something in the air there the moment I step inside, and I immediately forget my troubles and budgetary constraints and let loose. My TJ’s time is sacred to me, and I’ve learned that I can't go grocery shopping with anyone else; perfection can’t be rushed. Perhaps one of the best things about Trader Joe’s is the manageable size of the store. I know where everything is, and I am not overwhelmed by options. Oh, and the prices are fantastic. Plus, the whimsical seasonal products occasionally bring a tear to my eye out of pure excitement. Now my favorite items from TJ’s are constantly evolving as they continuously introduce new products to their shelves. But as of today, these are my current can’t live without Trader Joe’s items, from proteins to seasonings and everything in between!
I will release a new part of the list each week until it’s complete!
*This list is in no particular order or ranking system and is not affiliated with Trader Joe’s in any way*
Proteins
Pasture-raised eggs
These are my favorite eggs to get from TJ’s. I don’t mind spending a few extra dollars on my eggs if it means they were humanely produced and actually contain the vitamins and minerals my body needs. Pasture-raised eggs are the only way to go in my book, as I eat a lot of them and want the highest quality protein possible.
Spicy Italian chicken sausage
I always like to keep at least one type of chicken sausage in my fridge at all times. This spicy Italian version is the most versatile, in my opinion, and goes with practically anything. Whether I throw it in pasta or roast it on a sheet pan with onions and peppers, dinner is ready in no time. I wouldn’t say the sausage is actually spicy, but they do pack an extra punch of Italian flavor.
Pork belly
This pork belly is a game changer. It is actually pre-cooked, so all you have to do is slice it up to your liking and pan-fry it until it's nice and crispy. I am a ramen lover, and this is the perfect topping alongside a jammy egg, YUM.
Smoked Atlantic Salmon
Trader Joe’s has a fantastic smoked salmon selection at affordable prices. I love to pick up a package of the Pacific Supreme Smoked Atlantic Salmon for a special weekend breakfast. It’s only around $5 or $6 for the package, and enough salmon for two breakfasts! A bagel with lox and cream cheese runs me about $10, so this is an absolute steal, plus the quality is great.
Shawarma Chicken Thighs
This chicken is so insanely flavorful it will make any dinner one to remember. It cooks so easily on a sheet pan in the oven, and the warm, savory spices will make your mouth water as it cooks. The marinade is heavy on the garlic, cumin, onion, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, and more. I love to eat this with jasmine rice, a light salad, and tzatziki sauce. Definitely give this one a try.
Andouille chicken sausage
This is my other favorite chicken sausage flavor; the andouille flavor is top-notch, and I love the fact that it's chicken-based and, therefore a bit healthier! This doesn’t go with everything like the Italian version, but the flavor of the sausage packs is the perfect complement to roasted potatoes and string beans or some tomatoey Spanish rice.
Tinned Applewood Lightly Smoked Salmon
Tinned fish deserves a place in more people’s hearts. If you turn your nose up at tinned fish, you’re missing out! This salmon is the perfect quick fix for a healthy lunch that satisfies you. Wherever you would use canned tuna, just swap it out for this salmon to switch things up a little! It’s lightly smokey and mixes perfectly with mayo and sriracha to make a spicy salmon mix that you can eat with rice, crackers, or on top of a salad. I would never steer you wrong. Definitely try this salmon!
Peppercorn-encrusted pork tenderloin
I absolutely love this pork tenderloin. It is the perfect size for two people and is foolproof. Just sear it in a pan on each side until a nice crust forms, and then pop it in the oven on a sheet pan for 25 minutes, done. It is peppery, tender, and juicy every time.
Frozen Angus Grass-Fed Burgers
These frozen burgers are a must-have in my freezer for an easy, delicious standby dinner. The patties are easy to cook inside on your stove, are a perfect size, and always cook perfectly medium rare! It is hard to mess these up.