Bubby and Bean ::: Living Creatively: The 15 Best Items at Trader Joe's (2021 Edition)

Every spring(ish) since 2017, I've shared my favorite items from Trader Joe's with with you guys. As I've repeatedly stated, it's my favorite grocery store for many reasons (healthier options, affordability, overall good vibe), but I mostly love all of the speciality items they offer under their own branding. And I've come to love sharing my TJs faves with you all.

As always, there are many core staples here that have remained year after year, but I've also included some newer items I find myself buying again and again. And once again, I feel the need to let you know that this is in no way sponsored by my beloved TJs. I just enjoy sharing my obsession.

1. Toscano Black Pepper Cheese
For yet another year, this is my number one. It was recommended to us several years ago by a Trader Joe's employee while we were shopping, and it now a staple in our fridge. You have to try it. Trust me.

2. Grainless Granola
I've actually only bought this once (it's new), but love it so fiercely that I was compelled to share. It's vegan and gluten free and all that goodness, and it tastes freaking delicious. I've been loving it on smoothie bowls and plain Greek yogurt.

3. Raw Almond Butter
This is another staple in our house. It isn't cheap, but no almond butters are. And this one is by far the best I've ever had aside from fresh ground (and even then the texture is no match).

4. Carrot Ginger Miso Salad Dressing
Current favorite dressing. An explosion of flavors.

5. Handcrafted Black Bean & Cheese Taquitos
They're taquitos. Enough said. (Tip: Pan fry them and dip into salsa.)

6. Everything But the Bagel Seasoning Potato Chips
Not healthy. Don't care. Flavor party, guys.

7. Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
The best price I've found and we use it daily.

8. Organic Broccoli Slaw
I discovered this in 2018 and now I can't live without it. It's the perfect crunch to add to bowls and tacos, makes a killer a salad, and is quite good steamed with pasta sauce.

9. Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
I will never not include this one.

10. Thai Yellow Curry Sauce
This one holds a special place in my heart. The first time I had my now-husband over for dinner (15 years ago!), I made him yellow curry tofu with this sauce. His exact word in response was "smitten." (I also drank way too much vodka that night and he ended up holding up my hair over the toilet, which was the first of many signs that this one was a keeper.)

11. Thai Vegetable Gyoza
This is another one I share year after year, and for good reason. Tibetan Momos are my absolute favorite food, but they're impossible to find outside of Tibetan restaurants, and my one attempt at making them was disastrous to say the least. These are the closest I've found. I eat them with sriracha and soy sauce.

12. Paneer Tikka Masala with Spinach Basmati Rice
I'm being quite serious when I say that this is just as good as Paneer Makhani at my favorite Indian restaurant. The portion is a little small for a filling dinner, but with a hearty side salad, it's perfect.

13. Steamed Lentils
These make the perfect snack, are great on salads, and just make life easier. My kids are fans too. I top them with a little Bragg's Amino Acids.

14. Mexican-Style Riced Cauliflower
Cauliflower rice can go either way for me. This one, which is a new TJs find, is really good. Cumin, cayenne, and lime flavor make it. It's burrito bowl perfection.

15. Speculoos Cookie Butter
Another ones I'll never leave off. Pure decadence.

If I missed anything, let me know, and I'll grab it on my next visit. I'm always up for trying new TJs goodies!