As a meal planning expert and mom of three, I prepare homemade dinners at least 5 nights a week. Nutrition and flavor are always top of mind, but I don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Trader Joe’s makes it easy to cook healthy dinners that taste delicious with its array of specialty items, wide variety of plant-based options, and unique prepared ingredients.
I’m thrilled to share my go-to essentials in this Business Insider round-up.
My Favorite Trader Joe's Products
These three products make it into my Trader Joe’s cart every week:
1. Creamy Vegan Caesar Salad Dressing
At just 60 calories a serving, this is my answer to zhuzhing up steamed vegetables, fancying up wraps, and of course, dressing salads and grain bowls.
I serve it often drizzled on roasted broccoli for a “Caesar-style” veg side dish, and it’s also my go to for a quick dinner salad. (Toss it with chopped romaine, Everything Bagel Roasted Chickpeas, and chopped avocado.)
2. High Protein Extra Firm Tofu
Trader Joe’s offers a variety of tofu, but the High Protein Super Firm, Baked Teriyaki, and Baked Sriracha options are my favorites. The pre-seasoned and baked varieties are ready to slice, crumble, or air fry without any prep.
Meanwhile, the High Protein tofu doesn’t require any pressing, and provides 5 grams more protein per serving than their extra firm tofu. It’s a delicious plant-based main dish alternative.
Some of my menu highlights include grilled “steaks” topped with chimichurri, and breaded tofu “sticks” served with dipping sauces.
3. Frozen Organic Brown Rice
I always keep a box of this rice in my freezer for easy meals that are ready in minutes. From grain bowls and stir-fries, to burritos and casseroles, each package takes just four minutes in the microwave.
Instead of preparing a pot of rice on the weekend, these conveniently portioned packets not only supplement my main dishes, but also make a quick side dish.
I’m also a big fan of their frozen jasmine rice.
Click here to get the rest of my favorite Trader Joe’s products (and the many ways I use them for easy, healthy dinners).