Additional Coverage:
- I worked at Trader Joe’s for 3 years. I still come back all the time for these 8 underrated items. (businessinsider.com)
Former Trader Joe’s Employee Spills the Beans: These 8 Items Are Always in Her Cart!
Even after clocking three years behind the scenes at everyone’s favorite neighborhood grocery store, Jasmine Ascencio, a former Trader Joe’s employee, finds herself continually drawn back to its aisles. And she’s not just there for the nostalgia – she’s on a mission to stock up on her tried-and-true favorites, from cult classics to personal “hidden gems.”
Ascencio, who identifies as neurodivergent, prioritizes quick, easy, and affordable meal solutions. “I don’t often cook fancy dishes unless I’m feeling particularly inspired,” she explains, noting a TikTok recipe might occasionally spark her culinary muse. Luckily, Trader Joe’s delivers a bounty of products perfectly suited for her simple, delicious approach to eating.
Here’s a peek into Ascencio’s essential Trader Joe’s shopping list:
1. Overnight Oats: A Breakfast Game-Changer
Forget mushy or overly sweet versions; Trader Joe’s overnight oats hit the perfect balance. Ascencio grabs a few on every trip, with flavors like peanut butter and vanilla in her rotation, and eagerly anticipates the seasonal pumpkin variety.
2. Frozen Hashbrowns: The Hype is Real
Once skeptical of the constant customer inquiries about these frozen potato patties, Ascencio is now a full-blown convert. “They crisp up perfectly in the air fryer,” she raves, making them an ideal base for her avocado “toast” with a fried egg.
3. Norwegian Sourdough Rye Chips: Tuna Salad’s Best Friend
A customer recommendation led Ascencio to this winning combination. The sturdy rye chips provide the ideal crunch and saltiness to complement creamy tuna salad, holding up without crumbling.
4. Horchata-Inspired Ice Cream: A Summer Must-Have
Creamy, cinnamon-infused, and dotted with just the right amount of cookie pieces, this seasonal ice cream is a non-negotiable for Ascencio during the summer months.
5. Dolmas: A Pantry Powerhouse
Another customer-inspired find, these grape leaf-wrapped rice rolls are a versatile snack or side dish. “You can eat these right out of the can!” Ascencio exclaims, suggesting a pairing with hummus or tzatziki.
6. Refrigerated Chicken Nuggets: The Ultimate WFH Lunch Hack
These quick-cooking nuggets are a lifesaver for Ascencio, providing a fast and easy meal or snack. They’re also a great way to add protein to a salad and have saved her from countless takeout orders. The spicy version gets a nod of approval too!
7. Squiggly Knife-Cut Style Noodles: Instant Ramen’s Chewy Alternative
Ascencio praises the “chewy, bouncy texture” of these noodles, a step above traditional instant ramen. The spicy, garlicky, and nutty sauce is a highlight, making them a go-to for lazy lunches or late-night cravings.
8. Organic Coconut Water: Hydration Hero
As a self-proclaimed coffee devotee, Ascencio relies on Trader Joe’s organic coconut water to stay hydrated. She appreciates its refreshing taste, lack of excessive sweetness, and affordable price point, always stocking up when she visits.
So, next time you’re navigating the bustling aisles of Trader Joe’s, consider taking a cue from this former insider – your taste buds (and your wallet!) might just thank you.