Summer is officially here, and that means one thing: time to stock up on all of your summer necessities! If you’re looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered.
Today, our editor is sharing a list of all the Trader Joe’s summer essentials you need to try ASAP. From refreshing drinks to delicious snacks, there’s something for everyone.
So what are you waiting for, sis? Get your phone out and open up the notes app to write your list the next time you’re in the area and there’s a Trader Joe’s store nearby.
1. Sweet Apple Chicken Sausage
Infused with pure Vermont maple syrup, TJ’s chicken sausage is perfect for those mornings when you’re craving yummy sausages that have a hint of sweetness to it.
You could even cut them up and add them to a summer salad for some extra protein or grill them and put them in a summertime wrap. This is definitely one of the TJ foods you can’t live without in the summer, go pick up some today.
2. Strawberry Basil Vinegarette
This tasty and herb-smelling vinaigrette is perfect to drizzle on top of summer salads or use as a marinade for chicken or fish.
I could eat this with some grilled chicken and summer veggies for dinner or use it as a summer pasta salad. It’s so versatile and perfect for summer entertaining!
3. Ube Tea Cookies
In your trader joe’s haul, be sure to pick up this seasonal item.
Who knew that these purple yam shortbread cookies could make me so happy? Coated with powdered sugar, these cute and tasty cookies are perfect for summertime tea parties or an after-dinner dessert.
I’m also planning on using them as a summer party favor or hostess gift because they’re just that good.
4. Trail Mix Crackers
If this item looks familiar it’s because I’ve mentioned in another blog post that talks about all things TJ items to bring to a BBQ.
Whoever thought of combining mung beans, seeds, cashews, raisins, and cheese together, is a total genius. You can eat them straight out of the box or add them to a summer charcuterie board for some extra protein and crunch.
No matter how you eat them, these trader joe’s social crackers are addicting and perfect for summer snacking.
5. Thai Banana Fritter
When you’re tired of making banana nut bread, go to Trader Joe’s and pick this up instead. These fritters are made with bananas, coconut milk, spices, and flour and then fried to perfection. Serve them with some vanilla ice cream for a summer dessert that will have you feeling all the tropical feels.
If you are someone that loves bananas, grab your Trader Joe’s shopping bag and stock up on these because you’ll be eating them all summer long. I am Trader Joe’s obsessed with these.
6. Organic Cheese and Tomato Pizza
Eating this family-size-style pizza reminds me of the causal date night my husband and I have when we’re feeling too lazy to cook.
It’s always nice to have a couple of these in the freezer for those summer nights when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy!
7. Sparkling Strawberry and Pineapple Juice Beverage
If it wasn’t for my black girls in trader joe’s Facebook group, I would not have known that these refreshing drinks were back in stock.
The sparkling strawberry juice is a known favorite in my household and the pineapple juice is perfect for those who want something that reminds them of the delicious summer fruit to sip on.
8. Wine Country Chicken Salad
Another favorite that I simply thank the heavens for is this Wine Country Chicken Salad. Near the plants at Trader Joe’s in my store location is where you’ll find a container of this.
It has cranberries, pecans, and all-white meat chicken, which is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks. Truth? I’m not a big mayo person but I can eat this in spoonfuls without any issue.
If you want to try something new from TJ’s this summer, give this mouthwatering chicken salad a go! I promise you’ll love it with some crackers or on its own.
9. Hot & Sweet Jalapenos
If you told me two years that I would be eating jalapenos, I would’ve laughed uncontrollably in your face because I used to HATE spicy jalapenos. But, these are not just spicy, there’s a hint of sweetness that makes them addicting.
I love to add these to my pizza and my husband is always left so satisfied because I don’t hold back on how much I add. He’s a huge jalapenos fan so these are summer must-haves in our house.
10. Mini Cucumbers
I was today years old when I realized that mini cucumbers are also called Persian cucumbers. I’m currently eating my way through a pack as I write this post because they’re just that good.
They have a slightly sweet taste and are the perfect size to slice and add to your summer salads. Cucumbers are also so hydrating and have a plethora of health benefits, making them a summer necessity in my book.
The Summer Essential Foods You Should Try
Phew, it looks like you have some items to pick up the next time you’re at Trader Joe’s. If you’re in the mood for chips at Trader Joe’s, refer to the other TJ list.
Be sure to try as many that pique your interest all and let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Happy summer snacking!
