When it comes to grocery store royalty, Trader Joe's is unparalleled in its exceptional quality, many of its prices, and unique items that can't be found anywhere else. Trader Joe's has taken strides in all manner of food lifestyles and alternative ingredient options and that effort has not gone unnoticed by fans of the store. While this reputation has been undisputed by those who shop there, there are some foods that don't hold a candle to others - and not everything on the Trader Joe's list is worth going out of your way for.
Fans everywhere have gotten pretty honest in expressing what they think is worth it and what's just okay, especially with the reputation the brand has grown for its own name-brand items. The next time you're shopping around at TJ's, make sure to grab some of these... and maybe save the rest for next time.
Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
In all fairness, Trader Joe's Everything But The Bagel Seasoning does live up to its reputation. This seasoning is well worth the price and the effort in finding it (not that it takes much) simply because of the fact that it's so unbelievably versatile.
One thing that many fans say when trying this for the first time is that they're surprised just how many things this seasoning can be used on, from chicken to a crunchy seasoning for salads. It adds a hint of savory saltiness to just about everything, and that same everything bagel flavor is just a whisper in the background.
Spanakopita
Most people go for frozen spanakopita because the fact is that making this Greek specialty from scratch does require patience and a lot of phyllo dough. It is easier to purchase pre-made and if a Greek restaurant isn't open near you, the frozen food aisle is the next best thing.
We're happy to report that Trader Joe's Spanakopita is exactly what you'd think of when you're craving this spinach and feta-filled dish, and the best part? It comes neatly-wrapped in phyllo dough so there's no mess, and you can bake one or the entire box with no problem.
Sweet Apple Chicken Sausage
The Sweet Apple Chicken Sausage is a food that has an uncertain reputation at Trader Joe's. While the sausage itself has great flavor and is a solid alternative to pork, one reviewer at Insider claimed that it erred on the side of being a bit too sweet, with a bit too much apple flavor.
With that being said, it's a good buy for those who don't mind a little more fruitiness in their sausage and can handle the sweetness up against a savory protein such as chicken.
Black Bean And Monterey Jack Burrito
When it comes to burritos, not all of them are created equal and it can be tough finding one that's just simple and good... unless you're shopping at Trader Joe's, that is.
This Black Bean and Monterey Jack Burrito is nothing short of extraordinary which is saying quite a lot, considering it consists of slightly-mashed black beans and, well, cheese. But, somehow, the flavors mingle together to create a burrito that's tasty, satisfying, and crave-worthy even after it's finished.
Olive Oil Popcorn
Olive oil popcorn wouldn't normally sound like a snack that too many people reach for but when it's Trader Joe's Olive Oil Popcorn, it's quite a different story.
This popcorn has just an edge of savoriness with a hint of salt, making it a great, healthy alternative to the buttery popcorn that you'd get at the movies or in microwaveable bags. The flavor is surprisingly strong without being overwhelming and it's a solid late-night snack to satisfy a craving.
Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels
These peanut butter filled pretzels actually have a lengthy reputation when it comes to Trader Joe's and it's easy to see why. For those who aren't completely in love with peanut butter, the experience of eating these might not be wholly pleasant but otherwise, they're a delicious snack.
What's really impressive is the peanut butter to pretzel ratio - while other stuffed pretzels might not have a great filling ratio and are lacking in the peanut butter area, these are perfectly balanced and leave no room for wanting anything else.
Mandarin Orange Chicken
It could be argued that Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is one of the best parts of its frozen food aisle.
For five years, this frozen dinner entree has been voted one of the best and if you walk away from this store with nothing else, then let the one cart item be this chicken. The flavor is unreal, the chicken is tender and moist, and it reheats like an absolutely dream.