Our 5 Favorite New Trader Joe’s Products of 2018
Much like the elves toiling away at the North Pole, the clever tinkerers at Trader Joe’s work around the clock to make sure shelves are stocked with the latest and greatest treats. And their genius is not just limited to the frozen aisle either — have you ever peeped the snacks, beauty, or drink aisles?? It’s seriously astonishing how many new products they’re able to roll out week after week.
While we can’t wait to see all the things up TJ’s sleeves in 2019, here’s a look back at a few things that brought us joy this year (that we hope are here to stay):
1. Cauliflower Gnocchi
These faux gnocchi (faucchi?) may have been on the receiving end of some major mixed reviews (DO NOT BOIL THEM), but we are of the mind that if you cook them right, they’re a game changer. Here’s the secret: Pan-fry them, without the water as the label instructs, to avoid gummy blobs.
2. Blue Cheese Mustard
Fans of blue cheese and fans of mustard can converge on the latest boutique condiment to grace the adequately stocked shelves of Trader Joe’s. For those already in possession of spicy brown, yellow, Dijon, and honey mustards, you need this one too. It’s smooth, tangy, creamy, and umami-y.
3. Face Sheet Masks
TJ’s might have the best frozen aisle in the game, but did you know that the retailer also dabbles in the self care department? These $2 face sheet masks are definitely worth tossing into your cart every time you do a weekly grocery haul. They’ll nourish you in a different kind of way.
4. Gelato
Although similar in packaging to Talenti, TJ’s version of this frozen specialty contains fewer calories than the typical pint, and costs almost half as much. If those aren’t adequate reasons to stock up, I don’t know what more convincing you need.
5. Seltzers with a Splash
At Kitchn, we’re partial to bubbly water. (We have an entire fridge in the office dedicated to LaCroix.) So when we found out that TJ’s was coming out with a new carbonated concoction, we had to get our hands on it. This seltzer “with a splash” contains a bit of fruit juice, adding a little somethin’ somethin’ to each can. Think of it like Spindrift, on the cheap.