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- I’m a dietitian on the Mediterranean diet. I swear by getting these 5 products at Trader Joe’s. (businessinsider.com)
Local Dietitian Shares Trader Joe’s Must-Haves for a Mediterranean Lifestyle
[City, State] – For those looking to embrace the health-focused Mediterranean diet, navigating grocery store aisles can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, one local dietitian, who is also a long-time follower of the diet, has shared her secret weapon for effortless Mediterranean-inspired meals and snacks: Trader Joe’s.
The Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its emphasis on antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, fiber-packed whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, consistently ranks as a top healthy eating pattern. It encourages limiting added sugars, refined grains, saturated fats, and excessive sodium.
“I’m drawn to its flexibility, vibrant flavors, and nourishing benefits,” the dietitian explained. Over the years, she has streamlined her Trader Joe’s shopping routine, making it “a breeze” to prepare Mediterranean-inspired dishes, even amidst a busy schedule.
Here are some of her essential Trader Joe’s staples that keep her Mediterranean-inspired kitchen well-stocked:
Versatile Vegan Creamy Dill Dressing: This dressing, made with wholesome ingredients like cauliflower and dill, is a fridge MVP. Initially purchased for salads, its fresh, herby flavor has proven incredibly versatile. She suggests mixing it with tuna and celery for a quick salad, using it as a sandwich condiment, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon: The Mediterranean diet embraces life’s simple pleasures, including an occasional glass of quality red wine with dinner. Red wine contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which have been linked to heart health benefits when consumed in moderation. Her top pick from Trader Joe’s is the “smooth and full-bodied” True Myth cabernet sauvignon, perfect for plant-based pasta or sipping while cooking.
Probiotic-Packed GT’s Synergy Kombucha: While wine is an occasional treat, kombucha is her daily go-to. This fermented tea is brimming with probiotics, and she particularly loves GT’s Synergy kombucha for its “bright, tangy flavor” and refreshing fizziness, offering a healthy alternative to soda. The live cultures in GT’s Synergy are often associated with gut-health benefits, a cornerstone of overall wellness.
Antioxidant-Rich Freeze-Dried Blueberries: A pantry essential, Trader Joe’s freeze-dried blueberries offer a convenient and shelf-stable way to boost fruit intake. Their concentrated flavor and delightful crunch make them ideal for Greek yogurt, oatmeal, or trail mix.
Blueberries are known antioxidant powerhouses, and the freeze-drying process effectively preserves their nutrients without added sugar. Each bag also boasts an impressive 7 grams of fiber.
Mediterranean-Inspired Mixed Nuts: Nuts are a core component of the Mediterranean diet, valued for their healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Her absolute favorite is Trader Joe’s specific mix of almonds, cashews, and pecans, tossed with savory herbs and olive pieces. These nuts are perfect for staving off hunger, adding crunch to a cheese board, or sprinkling over a salad, offering “a little taste of the Mediterranean in every handful.”
With these dietitian-approved picks, embracing the Mediterranean lifestyle at Trader Joe’s just got a whole lot easier.