Trader Joe’s July Haul: Delicious Recipes Featuring the Best New Products
July is here, and that means Trader Joe’s has unleashed a wave of exciting new products onto its shelves! Forget those sad summer slumps; we’re diving headfirst into a culinary adventure featuring the *absolute best* new Trader Joe’s offerings this month. This isn’t just a product review; it’s a recipe extravaganza! We’ve curated a collection of mouthwatering dishes that highlight the unique flavors and versatility of these newcomers. Get your grocery list ready, because you’ll want to try these ASAP!
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s quickly recap a few of the stand-out new products that will be featured. This will give you some background about what makes them so great.
**Featured New Products (July 2024):**
* **Trader Joe’s Ube Mochi Pancake & Waffle Mix:** The sweet, subtly earthy flavor of ube (purple yam) meets the chewy delight of mochi in a pancake and waffle mix? Yes, please! This is a game-changer for breakfast and dessert alike.
* **Trader Joe’s Spicy Chakri Mix:** A crunchy, savory snack with a delightful kick of spice. Perfect for snacking straight from the bag or incorporating into more complex dishes.
* **Trader Joe’s Italian Style Soffritto Starter:** A pre-made base of finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery simmered in olive oil. This time-saver is the foundation for countless Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
* **Trader Joe’s Vegan Buffalo Dip:** A creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy dip that’s completely plant-based. Perfect for parties, snacks, or slathering on veggie burgers.
* **Trader Joe’s Dill Pickle Hummus:** A tangy and briny twist on classic hummus. This unique flavor combination is surprisingly addictive and works well in various applications.
* **Trader Joe’s Strawberry Overnight Oats:** A convenient and delicious ready-to-eat breakfast option featuring the taste of fresh strawberries and the heartiness of oats.
Now, let’s get cooking! Here are some incredible recipes using these new Trader Joe’s finds:
## Recipe 1: Ube Mochi Waffles with Coconut Whipped Cream & Mango
This recipe elevates the simple waffle to a tropical paradise. The ube mochi waffle is already a winner, but the coconut whipped cream and fresh mango take it to the next level.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Ube Mochi Pancake & Waffle Mix
* As directed on the box (usually water and oil)
* 1 can full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight
* 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
* Optional: Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Waffle Batter:** Follow the instructions on the Trader Joe’s Ube Mochi Pancake & Waffle Mix box to create the waffle batter. Make sure not to overmix, as this can result in tough waffles. Let the batter sit for 5 minutes.
2. **Make Coconut Whipped Cream:** Scoop out the thick, solid coconut cream from the top of the refrigerated coconut milk can, leaving the watery liquid behind. Place the coconut cream in a chilled bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat the coconut cream until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue to beat until well combined and stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
3. **Cook the Waffles:** Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease the waffle iron. Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crispy, following the waffle iron’s instructions. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes per waffle.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Place the cooked waffles on a plate. Top with a generous dollop of coconut whipped cream, diced mango, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* For extra mochi chewiness, add a tablespoon of glutinous rice flour (mochiko flour) to the batter.
* Swap the mango for other tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, or passion fruit.
* Drizzle with maple syrup or a homemade ube glaze for added sweetness.
* Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more decadent treat.
## Recipe 2: Spicy Chakri Mix Trail Mix
This recipe transforms the Trader Joe’s Spicy Chakri Mix from a simple snack into a satisfying and energizing trail mix. It’s perfect for hiking, road trips, or a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Spicy Chakri Mix
* ½ cup roasted almonds
* ½ cup dried cranberries
* ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
* ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Trader Joe’s Spicy Chakri Mix, roasted almonds, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate chips (if using).
2. **Mix Well:** Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly distributed.
3. **Store:** Store the trail mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Adjust the ratios of ingredients to your liking.
* Add other nuts and seeds like cashews, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds.
* Use different dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or goji berries.
* Add a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick of spice.
* For a sweeter trail mix, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
## Recipe 3: Italian Style Soffritto Pasta with Sausage & Spinach
This recipe showcases the convenience and flavor of the Trader Joe’s Italian Style Soffritto Starter. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (16 oz) pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Italian Style Soffritto Starter
* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
* 5 ounces fresh spinach
* 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
* ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Brown the Sausage:** While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. **Add the Soffritto Starter:** Add the Trader Joe’s Italian Style Soffritto Starter to the skillet with the sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. **Add Tomatoes & Broth:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Add Spinach:** Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
6. **Combine with Pasta:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
7. **Add Parmesan:** Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
8. **Serve:** Serve immediately, garnished with more grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use ground beef, turkey, or plant-based crumbles instead of Italian sausage.
* Add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
* Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese for extra creaminess.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier sauce.
* Use different types of pasta sauce, such as marinara, arrabiata, or pesto.
## Recipe 4: Vegan Buffalo Dip Veggie Burgers
This recipe combines the creamy, spicy goodness of Trader Joe’s Vegan Buffalo Dip with hearty veggie burgers for a flavor-packed and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 veggie burgers of your choice (Trader Joe’s has many options!)
* 4 burger buns
* ½ cup Trader Joe’s Vegan Buffalo Dip
* ¼ cup shredded lettuce
* ¼ cup diced celery
* Optional: Vegan ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Veggie Burgers:** Cook the veggie burgers according to package directions. You can grill them, pan-fry them, or bake them.
2. **Prepare the Buns:** Toast the burger buns, if desired.
3. **Assemble the Burgers:** Spread a generous layer of Trader Joe’s Vegan Buffalo Dip on the top and bottom buns. Place a cooked veggie burger on the bottom bun. Top with shredded lettuce and diced celery.
4. **Add Dressing (Optional):** Drizzle with vegan ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing, if desired.
5. **Serve:** Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use different types of veggie burgers, such as black bean burgers, quinoa burgers, or mushroom burgers.
* Add other toppings like sliced tomatoes, red onions, or pickles.
* Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or coleslaw.
* Use the Vegan Buffalo Dip as a dipping sauce for veggie sticks or tortilla chips.
* Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce.
## Recipe 5: Dill Pickle Hummus Chicken Salad Sandwiches
This recipe gives a tangy and unexpected twist to classic chicken salad sandwiches, using the unique flavor of Trader Joe’s Dill Pickle Hummus.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
* ½ cup Trader Joe’s Dill Pickle Hummus
* ¼ cup diced celery
* ¼ cup diced red onion
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Bread of your choice (sourdough, whole wheat, or croissants work well)
* Lettuce leaves
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Trader Joe’s Dill Pickle Hummus, diced celery, diced red onion, and chopped fresh dill (if using).
2. **Mix Well:** Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Spread a layer of the dill pickle hummus chicken salad on one slice of bread. Top with lettuce leaves and the other slice of bread.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately or wrap tightly and refrigerate for later.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other vegetables like chopped pickles, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
* Use different types of bread, such as pita bread or wraps.
* Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for a touch of spice.
* Serve the chicken salad on crackers or as a lettuce wrap for a lighter option.
* Try using tuna instead of chicken for a dill pickle hummus tuna salad.
## Recipe 6: Strawberry Overnight Oats Parfaits
This recipe transforms the convenience of Trader Joe’s Strawberry Overnight Oats into an elegant and layered breakfast or dessert parfait.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 containers Trader Joe’s Strawberry Overnight Oats
* ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced
* ¼ cup granola
* 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
* Optional: Whipped cream or yogurt
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the Parfaits:** In two glasses or parfait dishes, begin by layering the Trader Joe’s Strawberry Overnight Oats. Spoon about half of the contents of one container into each glass.
2. **Add Strawberries:** Top the overnight oats with a layer of sliced fresh strawberries.
3. **Sprinkle with Granola & Nuts:** Sprinkle a layer of granola and chopped nuts over the strawberries.
4. **Repeat Layers (Optional):** If desired, repeat the layers with the remaining overnight oats, strawberries, granola, and nuts.
5. **Add Topping (Optional):** Top with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt for an extra touch of richness.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or bananas.
* Use different types of granola, such as chocolate granola or peanut butter granola.
* Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for added sweetness.
* Add a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra nutrition.
* For a more decadent dessert, add a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
## Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s continues to impress with its innovative and delicious new products. These recipes are just a starting point – get creative and experiment with these ingredients to create your own culinary masterpieces! Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try new flavor combinations. Happy cooking, and happy Trader Joe’s hunting!