Sweet & Crunchy Creations: 5 Recipes Starring Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds
Trader Joe’s strikes again with another irresistible snack: Strawberry Yogurt Almonds. These aren’t your average almonds; they’re coated in a creamy, subtly sweet strawberry yogurt that makes them incredibly addictive. While perfectly enjoyable straight from the bag (and let’s be honest, they rarely last long!), these almonds are also surprisingly versatile in the kitchen. This blog post explores five delicious recipes that incorporate Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds, adding a delightful crunch and burst of strawberry flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.
## Why Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds Are So Great
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s appreciate why these almonds are so special:
* **The Perfect Balance:** The slight tanginess of the yogurt coating complements the nutty flavor of the almonds, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.
* **Satisfying Crunch:** The almonds themselves provide a satisfying crunch, making them a textural delight.
* **Subtle Strawberry Flavor:** The strawberry flavor isn’t overpowering; it’s a gentle sweetness that enhances the overall experience.
* **Convenience:** They’re readily available at Trader Joe’s, making them an easy and accessible ingredient.
* **Versatile:** They can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast to dessert.
## Recipe 1: Strawberry Yogurt Almond Granola Parfaits
Start your day with a healthy and delicious Strawberry Yogurt Almond Granola Parfait. This recipe is quick, easy, and customizable to your preferences.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds, roughly chopped
* 1/4 cup granola (your favorite flavor)
* 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
* Optional toppings: Chia seeds, flax seeds, shredded coconut
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Yogurt:** In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup if desired. This step allows you to control the sweetness level of your parfait.
2. **Layer the Parfait:** In a glass or jar, layer the ingredients in the following order: yogurt, granola, sliced strawberries, and chopped Strawberry Yogurt Almonds. Repeat the layers until the glass is full, finishing with a generous topping of almonds.
3. **Add Optional Toppings:** Sprinkle chia seeds, flax seeds, or shredded coconut on top for added nutrients and flavor.
4. **Enjoy Immediately:** For the best texture, enjoy the parfait immediately. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, wait to add the granola and almonds until just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different fruits:** Substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
* **Add a layer of jam:** Spread a thin layer of strawberry or raspberry jam between the yogurt and granola layers for an extra burst of flavor.
* **Make it vegan:** Use a plant-based yogurt alternative like coconut yogurt or almond yogurt.
* **Add a drizzle of almond butter:** For a richer flavor, drizzle some almond butter over the top.
## Recipe 2: Strawberry Yogurt Almond Crusted Chicken Salad
Add a crunchy and flavorful twist to your classic chicken salad with this Strawberry Yogurt Almond Crusted Chicken Salad. The almonds provide a delightful texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds, finely crushed
* 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Salad greens (mixed greens, spinach, or romaine lettuce)
* Salad toppings: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado (optional)
* Salad dressing (your favorite vinaigrette or ranch dressing)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. **Crush the Almonds:** Finely crush the Strawberry Yogurt Almonds using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Combine the crushed almonds with the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
3. **Coat the Chicken:** Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then dredge it in the almond-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Press the mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
4. **Bake the Chicken:** Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. **Assemble the Salad:** While the chicken is baking, prepare the salad greens and toppings. Place the salad greens in a large bowl and add your desired toppings.
6. **Add the Chicken:** Slice the baked chicken breasts and add them to the salad. Drizzle with your favorite salad dressing and toss gently to combine.
7. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the Strawberry Yogurt Almond Crusted Chicken Salad immediately. The warm chicken adds a delicious contrast to the fresh salad greens.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Pan-fry the chicken:** Instead of baking the chicken, you can pan-fry it in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until cooked through.
* **Use pre-cooked chicken:** For a quicker meal, use pre-cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. Simply slice the chicken and add it to the salad.
* **Add a fruity element to the salad:** Incorporate fruits like grapes, apple slices, or dried cranberries to enhance the sweetness of the salad.
* **Make it a wrap:** Use the chicken salad as a filling for a wrap or pita bread.
## Recipe 3: Strawberry Yogurt Almond Energy Bites
These no-bake Strawberry Yogurt Almond Energy Bites are the perfect snack to keep you energized throughout the day. They’re packed with protein, healthy fats, and a delicious strawberry flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds, roughly chopped
* 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
* 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
* 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
* 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped Strawberry Yogurt Almonds, peanut butter (or almond butter), honey or maple syrup, shredded coconut (if using), and chia seeds (if using).
2. **Mix Well:** Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold its shape.
3. **Chill the Mixture:** Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into balls.
4. **Roll into Bites:** Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and roll it into 1-inch balls. You can use your hands or a small cookie scoop to ensure uniform size.
5. **Store:** Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add protein powder:** Incorporate a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost.
* **Use different nut butters:** Experiment with different nut butters like cashew butter or sunflower seed butter.
* **Add dried fruit:** Include dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates for added sweetness and chewiness.
* **Coat in extra toppings:** Roll the energy bites in shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or cocoa powder for added flavor and texture.
## Recipe 4: Strawberry Yogurt Almond Bark
This easy-to-make Strawberry Yogurt Almond Bark is a sweet treat that’s perfect for sharing or gifting. It’s simple to customize and requires minimal effort.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces white chocolate chips
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds, roughly chopped
* 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (optional)
* Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
2. **Prepare the Bark:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the parchment paper and spread it into an even layer.
3. **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle the chopped Strawberry Yogurt Almonds and crushed freeze-dried strawberries (if using) evenly over the melted chocolate.
4. **Add Sprinkles (Optional):** Add sprinkles for extra decoration, if desired.
5. **Chill the Bark:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
6. **Break into Pieces:** Once the chocolate is firm, break it into pieces. Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use dark chocolate:** Substitute white chocolate with dark chocolate or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
* **Add other nuts and seeds:** Incorporate other nuts like pecans, walnuts, or pistachios, or seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
* **Drizzle with melted chocolate:** Drizzle the bark with melted dark chocolate or milk chocolate for added richness.
* **Add a swirl of peanut butter:** Swirl a spoonful of peanut butter into the melted white chocolate before adding the toppings.
## Recipe 5: Strawberry Yogurt Almond Scones
Elevate your scone game with these Strawberry Yogurt Almond Scones. The Strawberry Yogurt Almonds add a delightful crunch and a hint of strawberry flavor to these buttery and crumbly treats.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 3/4 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds, roughly chopped
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk or water)
* Turbinado sugar or sanding sugar (for topping)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Cut in Butter:** Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Fold in Almonds:** Gently fold in the chopped Strawberry Yogurt Almonds.
6. **Shape the Scones:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a sharp knife or a cookie cutter to cut the circle into 8 wedges or rounds.
7. **Place on Baking Sheet:** Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet.
8. **Brush with Egg Wash:** Brush the tops of the scones with egg wash.
9. **Sprinkle with Sugar:** Sprinkle with turbinado sugar or sanding sugar.
10. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
11. **Cool and Serve:** Let the scones cool on a wire rack before serving. Serve warm with clotted cream, jam, or butter.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different extracts:** Experiment with different extracts like almond extract or lemon extract.
* **Add citrus zest:** Incorporate lemon zest or orange zest for a brighter flavor.
* **Add dried fruit:** Include dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots for added sweetness and chewiness.
* **Make mini scones:** Use a smaller cookie cutter to make mini scones, perfect for bite-sized treats.
## Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Strawberry Yogurt Almonds are more than just a snack; they’re a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes. From breakfast parfaits to savory chicken salads and sweet bark, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a bag (or two!) of these addictive almonds and get creative in the kitchen. These five recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and create your own delicious Strawberry Yogurt Almond-inspired creations. Enjoy!