6 months. Apparently 6 months is the time frame when we feel it necessary to weigh the risk of exposure during a pandemic with missing our Trader Joe’s staples. Over those months, we were able to really consider what we love from Trader Joe’s and what we can find elsewhere. So, when I stocked up on our favorites, I wanted to share them with you.

There are a few things missing from our haul. Because we’ve shopped elsewhere, a lot of basics weren’t needed. Trader Joe’s is one of my favorite places to get affordable, organic options for condiments or kitchen staples (think coconut milk, tomato paste, etc). I. didn’t grab a lot of that specific category while there and my heart broke when they told me they didn’t have any Bambas. Granted, these are for the boys, not myself, but they are one of our holy grail snacks.

Chili Onion Crunch: It’s a bit too spicy for me but Kyle mixes it in with pasta, veggies, toast, burgers - seriously anything.

Traditional Tunisian Harissa: This one is new (to us) but figured it was worth a try.

Mini Cheese Crackers: We thought we could sub these out with the Ritz version but trust me, these are so so so much better.

Hi-Protein Veggie Burger: This isn’t pretending to be beef, so prep yourself for this. It’s easy to make and goes along with almost any sauce or side. I have one about once a week and really enjoy it.

Frozen Roasted Corn: Better than regular frozen corn and I honestly can’t really explain why. It just is.

Thai Style Red Curry Sauce: This sauce doesn’t pack a punch so when I use it, I usually add in some red curry paste or extra spices, but it’s an awesome sauce to have on hand for easy introduction into a curry sauce. I use one bottle along with a can of coconut milk, let simmer with some sautéed veggies and shredded (or cubed) chicken to serve over rice for an easy dinner that is toddler approved.

Walnut Pesto: I haven’t tried this yet but how could I just walk by and not grab it?

Vegan Kale, Cashew, & Basil Pesto: This pesto is so good. The Costco pesto just has too much for our family. This is a smaller size and healthier version that tastes great!

Garlic & Onion Pistachios: Again, these are a new one for me but I have high hopes since I absolutely love pistachios in almost any form.

Broccoli Florets: These “broccoli chips” are a hit in this home! They make for an excellent snack and we all just love them. I’ve been unable to find another version anywhere else.

Cauliflower Gnocchi: The Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi is the absolute best cauliflower gnocchi and it’s a hill I’ll die on.

Shrimp Burgers: This is another new one but I really love shrimp and Kyle doesn’t which has me looking for easy ways to include it in my diet. Plus, this could really go either way so I’ll update when I try it.

Cereal Bars: I actually enjoy having these on hand for the boys. They make for easy to-go snacks, should we ever live that to-go life anytime soon again.

Guacamole: This is a smooth guac and we get it because it’s pretty simple and makes for great spreading.

Coconut Aminos: I’ve actually come to prefer the taste of coconut aminos over soy sauce. I love coconut though and TJ’s brand has just the slightest hint of a coconut taste in my opinion. Also, it’s one of the most affordable coconut aminos brands I’ve found.

Vanilla Bean Paste: this is something they must have started carrying since the last time I’ve been in. I love using bean paste in a lot of my baking recipes but have yet to find an affordable option to experiment with, so I’m excited to have found this.

Peanut Butter Puffins: it’s an easy cereal for the kids when they are feeling snacky.

Pie Crusts: We’ve been having some trouble finding the roll out crusts lately at other stores, so while this is a win, it’s not necessarily a TJ staple.

Frozen Falafels: I’m excited to try these. TJ’s carries naan and a couple other easy to make sides that are really good so I’m hoping this one is too.

Pumpkin Everything: Trader Joe’s doesn’t mess around with the pumpkin selection and even though it isn’t in full swing yet, it’s still worth checking out. I actually enjoy cooking pumpkin a lot so I didn’t load up this trip on the basic pumpkin goods but instead grabbed some things I knew we loved.