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- I’m single, retired, and on a tight budget. Here are 6 of my favorite low-cost items to buy at Trader Joe’s. (businessinsider.com)
As a recent retiree managing a budget, I’ve found Trader Joe’s to be a reliable and affordable source for meals that last several days. Cooking elaborate dishes every day no longer fits my lifestyle, so I turn to convenient options that still deliver on taste and nutrition.
One of my favorite go-to meals is Trader Joe’s kung pao chicken, priced around $5.50. It comes with a packet of chiles and peanuts, but I enhance it with fresh garlic, cilantro, peppers, and green onions for a flavorful stir-fry. Served alongside Trader Joe’s organic brown rice, it makes for a satisfying dinner that stretches through the week.
Another simple and delicious option is their Mandarin orange chicken, costing just under $6. I bake the chicken, sauté some veggies, and finish with frozen ginger, fresh garlic, and green onions. Pairing it with brown or jasmine rice-both easily microwaved-makes dinner prep quick and hassle-free.
For pasta lovers, the frozen cheese-filled fiocchetti at $4.80 is a staple in my kitchen. Adding shallots and organic baby spinach brightens the dish and provides extra nutrients, plus the leftovers keep me well-fed for days.
Breakfast is no exception to convenience. Trader Joe’s spicy spuds, about $4.50 a bag, are perfect for a quick morning meal.
I often elevate them with green onions or a sprinkle of cheddar Gruyère blend for extra flavor. Another breakfast favorite is baingan bharta, a roasted eggplant curry priced around $3.50.
It heats up quickly and tastes fantastic served over toasted bread with a fried egg.
When it comes to dessert, I can’t resist Trader Joe’s brownie-crisp coffee ice cream sandwiches. At $4.80 per box, they combine the rich espresso flavor with a crisp brownie texture, making for a satisfying treat that won’t stretch my budget.
With a bit of planning and smart shopping, Trader Joe’s frozen and ready-to-eat items have become essential staples in my post-retirement kitchen-delicious, convenient, and budget-friendly.