If you’re looking for easy meal ideas, I hear you. As a registered dietitian, chef and recipe developer, I’ve made it my life’s work to come up with recipes that both feed and nourish. I know that’s not enough, though. The food also has to taste good. That’s why I love Trader Joe’s. With an array of sauces and condiments, prepared and fresh foods, there are literally hundreds of options to create delicious, nourishing meals!
Here are five of my favorite Trader Joe’s–inspired mini recipes. They’re big on nutrition and flavor. And with just three ingredients, these “recipitos” come together in 15 minutes or less. So they’re a cinch to make!
Gnocchi with Pesto
Eating Well / Trader Joe’s
One of the first products I ever bought at Trader Joe’s was their Gnocchi. And it’s been a staple in my pantry ever since. This potato-based “pasta” helps me create a variety of nutritious and delicious meals, including this one made with their Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto and bagged fresh spinach.
The Recipito: Cook gnocchi following package directions. Drain the gnocchi and return to the pot. Stir in ½ cup pesto and 1 (6-ounce) bag spinach. Cover and steam off the heat until the spinach is just wilted, 3 to 5 minutes. Makes 4 servings.
Tuna Caesar Wrap
Eating Well / Trader Joe’s
When I don’t feel like cooking, wraps are one of my go-tos. They’re easy and completely customizable. This version starts with Trader Joe’s whole-wheat tortillas, which are a sturdy base for the tuna and Caesar Salad.
The Recipito: Drain 1 (3-ounce) pouch tuna; flake into a medium bowl. Add 2 tablespoons Caesar salad dressing from the salad kit; toss gently to combine. Add half of the Caesar salad mix plus 2 more tablespoons dressing. Toss until the lettuce is well-coated. Divide the mixture between 2 tortillas. Roll each tortilla into a wrap and cut in half. Makes 2 servings
Garbanzo Branzino
Eating Well / Trader Joe’s
When I want something light and fresh, I always think of fish. Trader Joe’s frozen branzino fillets cook quickly and are delicious topped with their Greek Chickpeas and briny Whipped Feta Spread.
The Recipito: Thaw 4 branzino fillets. Pat dry and place on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Cover with 1 can chickpeas, including their liquid. Bake in a 375°F oven until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, 12 to 15 minutes. Top with dollops of whipped feta. Makes 4 servings.
‘Brinner’ Waffles
Eating Well / Trader Joe’s
In my house, breakfast for dinner is always a win, especially if it involves waffles (we fondly call it “brinner”). One that’s always a home run is Trader Joe’s Whole Grain Waffles topped with their creamy, protein-rich Greek Yogurt and Freeze Dried Raspberries, which I like to crumble over the top. A little drizzle of honey adds an extra ingredient, but it’s a lovely finishing touch if you’ve got it!
The Recipito: Toast 4 whole-grain waffles. Set out 2 serving plates. Transfer 2 waffles to each plate, arranging them in a stack. Top each stack with 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt and ¼ cup freeze-dried raspberries, whole or crushed or a combination! Makes 2 servings.
Peanutty Chicken Jicama Bowls
Eating Well / Trader Joe’s
For a fun, high-protein, crunchy dinner, I’ll grab a container of Trader Joe’s Crunchy Jicama Slaw, a box of their frozen Hardwood Smoked Pulled Chicken and a bag of peanuts! It’s a great “anytime” meal, but it’s also fun to bring to parties and barbecues!
The Recipito: Reheat the pulled chicken following package instructions; cool slightly. While the chicken is heating, prepare the slaw by combining all the ingredients from the container, including the dressing, in a large serving bowl. Add the cooled chicken and toss well. Garnish with ½ cup peanuts. Makes 4 servings.
