Our Editors Claim These Are The Only Frozen Foods You Should Be Buying At Trader Joe's
tk intro
tk Tier 2
tk Tier 4
tk Tier 5
Follow Delish on Instagram.
From munchable snacks to flavorful salad dressings and seasonings, Trader Joe's is home to many cult-favorite products. But perhaps no section is quite as large as the one with frozen food. These chilly aisles have so many appetizers, pizzas, meat and fish, sides, individual entrees, and desserts. But how do you really know what's worth buying?
Delish editors are professional eaters and shoppers. Collectively, we've tried a lot of Trader Joe's frozen foods—including the vegan ones—to tell you what you should add to your grocery list. While this list is by no means representative of every delicious frozen meal from TJ's, it does include all of our absolute favorites. Whether you're looking for a protein-packed individual meal, an easy side, or a sweet dessert, we've got you covered.
Japanese-Style Fried Rice
Out of the fried rice options in the TJ's freezer section, this one is our favorite. It branches out beyond the typical veggies and includes edamame, tofu, hijiki seaweed, and carrots. It’s good as-is, but can also be dressed up by adding eggs or other produce you have on hand.
Cauliflower Gnocchi
Another vegan favorite is the Cauliflower Gnocchi. But this isn’t just cauliflower in the shape of gnocchi (we see you, cauliflower rice). Made in Italy, this "gnocchi” is comprised of 75 percent cauliflower, along with cassava flour, potato starch, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt.
Roasted Corn
You can swap this roasted corn for nearly any recipe that calls for frozen corn to add additional flavor. Toss it in white chicken chili or this black bean and corn salad, or sauté it as a side. It can also be mixed with any veggie for a quick and easy salad.
BBQ Teriyaki Chicken
Quick, easy, and flavorful, this protein-packed meal will be a staple in your dinner rotation. Eat it on its own or add it to a bowl of rice or veggies.
Mini Croissants
These flaky croissants are the perfect addition to your brunch (or pigs in a blanket). The same supplier also makes TJ's chocolate croissants and almond croissants.
Classic Naples Style Sfogliatella Pastry
Speaking of pastries, if you like croissants, you have to try the Sfogliatella pastries, which have delicate crispy layers and are stuffed with ricotta and candied orange filling.
Korean Beefless Bulgogi
For a dish that means “fire meat” in Korean, you probably wouldn’t expect vegan bulgogi to stand up to the original. Textured soy protein is used in place of beef for a meat-like texture and consistency with plenty of protein.
Rice
From stir frys to grilled salmon, adding a bit of rice can really round out a meal (and help you soak up all those juices). But, if you just want a small amount, cooking a big pot can be a hassle. Each box of frozen rice comes with individual 10-ounce pouches that can be popped in the microwave or heated on the stove. In addition to this brown rice, TJ's has other varieties to choose from like jasmine rice, organic brown rice, and a rice medley. Rice in just a few minutes? Sold.
Portuguese Custard Tarts
Get a traditional Portuguese dessert right from your local Trader Joe's. These little tarts can be popped oven, air fryer, or microwave for a sweet treat.
Chicken Tikka Masala
TJ’s has been selling this crowd-favorite since 2009. If you don’t have time to make homemade chicken tikka masala, this meal will be ready in just five minutes. You’ll get white meat chicken drenched in creamy sauce with cumin-flavored Basmati rice. It also packs a whopping 21 grams of protein.
Gyoza Potstickers
While we always recommend heading to a local shop to buy bulk frozen dumplings, TJ's makes some pretty good pork and chicken gyoza that just needs to be reheated.
Hold the Dairy! Vegan Chocolate Mini Cones
These mini cones are perfect when you're craving something sweet. And even if you're vegan or avoiding dairy, these will do the trick because the ice cream is made mostly from coconut milk and vegan chocolate.
You Might Also Like
