I'm a Registered Dietitian: 7 Trader Joe's Items I Restock Every Week
Trader Joe’s is known for its globally inspired flavors, budget-friendly prices and revolving lineup of products.
The grocer consistently delivers convenient, high-quality items for just about every type of eater, making it a go-to destination for many. With so many options lining the shelves, it can be difficult to know which products are truly worth buying on repeat.
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To help narrow the list, Violeta Morris, MS, RDN, of The Concierge Dietitian, shares the top seven items she stocks up on each week that are both nutritionally beneficial and cost-effective.
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Chicken Meatballs
Price: $3.99
If you’ve ever gotten home from Trader Joe's starving and wanting something that won’t take more than five minutes to prepare and plate, you have to try these chicken meatballs. They’re fully cooked and easy to reheat in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the air fryer. Four meatballs provide 16 grams of protein, and they work in everything from bowls and salads to soups, wraps, and pasta. My personal favorite combination is pasta with meatballs.
Turkey Burgers
Price: $3.79
If you are looking for a pre-cooked protein option with an ingredient list shorter than your entire grocery list, this might become your next go-to. Made with just turkey, kosher salt and rosemary extract, these burgers deliver 22 grams of protein each and are lower in sodium than many frozen patties. They're also versatile enough for burgers, wraps, tacos, or salads.
Organic 3 Grain Tempeh
Price: $2.49
Tempeh is a plant-based protein made out of fermented soybeans. Unlike many plant proteins, it’s a complete protein, meaning you don’t have to pair it with other foods to get all nine essential amino acids. Trader Joe's Organic 3 Grain Tempeh provides 19 grams of protein per serving, making it an easy way to add more plant-based protein to your routine.
Shelled Edamame with Sea Salt
Price: $3.99
If there’s one thing I don’t ever miss from this list, it’s edamame. A half-cup serving provides about 9 grams of protein, making it an easy snack or addition to salads, bowls and stir-fries. Trader Joe's also offers both salted and unsalted versions, so you can choose the option that best fits your needs.
Gluten Free Organic Rolled Oats with Ancient Grains & Seeds
Price: $4.99
You can get oats quite literally anywhere, but these Gluten Free Organic Rolled Oats with Ancient Grains & Seeds are definitely a favorite of mine. In addition to oats, this blend includes amaranth, quinoa, chia seeds, and flax seeds. Each serving provides 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, with no added sugar and can be customized with sweet or savory toppings.
Chickpea Fusilli Pasta
Price: $2.99
Here’s another gluten-free option that still supports your protein and fiber goals—and it’s only made with three ingredients. One serving of Chickpea Fusilli Pasta contains 11 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. Its high fiber and protein content may also support better blood sugar management.
A meta-analysis of 12 studies found that chickpeas may help improve blood sugar levels and insulin resistance, which is one reason fiber-rich, minimally processed options like chickpea pasta can be a smart swap for refined grain pastas. It’s also a great choice for meal prep and pairs well with vegetables and Trader Joe’s chicken meatballs.
Organic Non-Dairy Soy Beverage Unsweetened
Price: $3.49
Ideally, we want a non-dairy milk alternative that closely matches dairy milk's nutritional profile. Trader Joe's Unsweetened Soy Beverage comes close, with 7 grams of protein per cup and added calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12. This alternative offers a non-dairy option that is still very nutritious, making it one of the best values among plant-based milks.
Eating healthy can break the bank, but these Trader Joe's staples prove you don't have to compromise on quality or flavor to enjoy a home-cooked meal without busting your grocery budget.
Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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