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- I’m a dietitian who loves shopping at Trader Joe’s. Here are 12 items I rely on to make easy, nutritious meals. (businessinsider.com)
As a registered dietitian, Serena Pratt finds joy in exploring grocery aisles, with Trader Joe’s being a longstanding favorite. The store offers a variety of convenient, nutritious options that help make healthy eating achievable. Here are some of her go-to Trader Joe’s picks that simplify meal preparation while supporting a balanced diet.
One staple is Trader Joe’s roasted-garlic hummus. Rich in fiber, plant-based protein, and iron from chickpeas, it serves multiple purposes-from a flavorful dip to a sandwich spread or salad dressing. Pratt particularly enjoys pairing it with mini cucumbers for a quick, no-fuss snack.
Plain, nonfat Greek yogurt is another versatile essential in her fridge. It provides protein and probiotics, making it ideal for breakfast with fruit and chia seeds, a smoothie thickener, or a sour cream substitute in savory dishes. Pratt prefers the unsweetened variety to customize sweetness with fresh ingredients.
For on-the-go mornings, she turns to Trader Joe’s strawberry kefir. This fermented dairy product contains diverse probiotics that aid digestion and offers a mildly sweet flavor without the tartness typical of plain kefir. She notes, however, that the flavored kefirs include added sugars, so the plain version is a better choice for those avoiding extra sugar.
In the freezer aisle, the rice medley stands out as a fiber-rich base for dinners, complementing curries, stir-fries, or roasted vegetables. Similarly, precooked steamed lentils save time while providing plant-based protein, fiber, and iron. Pratt uses lentils in soups, bowls, and even tacos, showcasing their versatility.
Canned garbanzo beans are pantry must-haves for her, offering protein and fiber in a shelf-stable form. She enjoys them roasted for a crunchy snack, tossed in salads, or blended into sauces. Trader Joe’s frozen turkey burgers provide a quick, lean protein option packed with B vitamins, suitable for burgers, salads, or bowls.
To enhance meals with minimal effort, Pratt relies on frozen fire-roasted bell peppers and onions, which add vibrant color, vitamin C, and smoky flavor to tacos, fajitas, or grain bowls. Edamame, another favorite frozen item, delivers all nine essential amino acids and fiber, making it a satisfying snack or side dish.
Frozen fruit is a convenient, nutritious choice that retains vitamin and antioxidant content comparable to fresh produce. Pratt frequently chooses the Very Cherry Berry blend for smoothies or oatmeal toppings.
Lastly, Trader Joe’s organic seeded bread rounds out her selections. The seeds contribute healthy fats, magnesium, and fiber, making the bread a hearty base for sandwiches or a nutrient-rich toast option.
These carefully chosen Trader Joe’s items help Serena Pratt maintain a nutritious diet with ease and variety, demonstrating how thoughtful grocery selections can support healthy, realistic eating habits.