Trader Joe’s March Madness: New Finds & Easy Recipes (Under $5!)

March is here, and that means it’s time for spring cleaning, warmer weather (hopefully!), and, most importantly, a fresh batch of exciting new finds at Trader Joe’s! This month, we’re focusing on delicious and budget-friendly options, with a special emphasis on items under $5. Get ready to transform your meals with these tasty and affordable ingredients!

## Why Trader Joe’s?

Trader Joe’s is a haven for foodies and budget-conscious shoppers alike. With its unique and often surprising product selection, affordable prices, and commitment to quality, it’s no wonder why so many people are loyal fans. The thrill of discovering a new favorite item is a constant source of excitement, and this month is no exception. We’ve scoured the aisles to bring you the best new finds, perfect for creating quick, easy, and delicious meals without breaking the bank.

## The Best New Trader Joe’s Finds (Under $5!)

Here’s a curated list of some of the most exciting new items we’ve spotted at Trader Joe’s this March, all priced under $5! (Prices may vary slightly by location).

1. **Trader Joe’s Zhoug Sauce ($3.99):** This vibrant and flavorful cilantro-based sauce is a game-changer. Originating from Yemen, Zhoug is packed with herbs, spices, and a hint of chili, making it incredibly versatile.
2. **Trader Joe’s Organic Garbanzo Bean Pasta ($2.99):** A healthy and delicious alternative to traditional pasta, this chickpea pasta is gluten-free and packed with protein and fiber.
3. **Trader Joe’s Spicy Chakri Mix ($2.49):** A crispy and savory Indian snack mix, perfect for satisfying those afternoon cravings. This mix features a variety of textures and flavors, from crunchy chakri to spicy lentils.
4. **Trader Joe’s Everything But The Elote Seasoning Blend ($2.29):** Bring the flavors of Mexican street corn to your kitchen with this seasoning blend. It’s perfect for sprinkling on popcorn, grilled vegetables, or even eggs.
5. **Trader Joe’s Vegan Tzatziki Dip ($3.49):** A creamy and refreshing plant-based dip that’s perfect for pairing with pita bread, vegetables, or grilled meats. It’s made with a blend of coconut cream, cucumber, dill, and garlic.
6. **Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter Cocoa Marshmallows ($2.99):** These fluffy marshmallows are infused with peanut butter and cocoa, creating a sweet and indulgent treat. Enjoy them straight from the bag, in hot chocolate, or as a topping for ice cream.
7. **Trader Joe’s Ube Tea Cookies ($3.99):** Delicate and subtly sweet, these purple yam-flavored cookies are a delightful treat. They are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
8. **Trader Joe’s Italian Style Soffritto Starter ($3.49):** A flavorful base for soups, stews, and sauces, this soffritto starter is made with a blend of onions, carrots, celery, and herbs. It saves you time and effort in the kitchen.
9. **Trader Joe’s Crunchy Chili Onion ($3.99):** This savory and spicy condiment is made with crispy fried onions, chili flakes, and garlic. It adds a delicious crunch and kick to any dish.
10. **Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce ($2.49):** A classic marinara sauce made with organic tomatoes, basil, and other herbs. It’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.

## Delicious Recipes Using These New Finds

Now, let’s get cooking! Here are some easy and delicious recipes using these new Trader Joe’s finds, all designed to be quick, affordable, and bursting with flavor.

### 1. Zhoug Chicken & Veggie Skewers

This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The Zhoug sauce adds a zesty kick to the chicken and vegetables, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Zhoug Sauce
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Cooked couscous or quinoa, for serving (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion.
2. Add the Zhoug sauce and olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
5. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, flipping occasionally.
7. Serve the skewers over cooked couscous or quinoa, if desired.

### 2. Garbanzo Bean Pasta with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes

This is a simple and healthy pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The garbanzo bean pasta is a great source of protein and fiber, and the pesto and cherry tomatoes add a burst of fresh flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 box Trader Joe’s Organic Garbanzo Bean Pasta
* 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the garbanzo bean pasta according to package directions.
2. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
3. Add the pesto and cherry tomatoes. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

### 3. Spicy Chakri Mix Trail Mix

This is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional trail mix. The Spicy Chakri Mix adds a delicious crunch and a hint of spice, making it the perfect snack for hiking, road trips, or just a midday pick-me-up.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup Trader Joe’s Spicy Chakri Mix
* 1/2 cup almonds
* 1/2 cup cashews
* 1/4 cup dried cranberries
* 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

**Instructions:**

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Mix well.
3. Store in an airtight container.

### 4. Everything But The Elote Popcorn

This is a simple and addictive snack that’s perfect for movie night. The Everything But The Elote seasoning blend adds a burst of flavor to plain popcorn, transforming it into a savory and satisfying treat.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 bag plain popcorn (air-popped or microwave)
* 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
* 2-3 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Everything But The Elote Seasoning Blend

**Instructions:**

1. Pop the popcorn according to package directions or using your preferred method.
2. Drizzle the melted butter or olive oil over the popcorn.
3. Sprinkle the Everything But The Elote seasoning blend over the popcorn. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Serve immediately.

### 5. Vegan Tzatziki Cucumber Sandwiches

These light and refreshing sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or snack. The Vegan Tzatziki Dip adds a creamy and flavorful element that pairs perfectly with the crisp cucumber.

**Ingredients:**

* 8 slices of whole-wheat bread
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Vegan Tzatziki Dip
* 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
* Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Spread the Vegan Tzatziki Dip evenly over four slices of bread.
2. Top with cucumber slices.
3. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
4. Cut the sandwiches in half and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs, if desired.

### 6. Peanut Butter Cocoa Marshmallow Hot Chocolate

This is a decadent and comforting treat that’s perfect for a cold day. The Peanut Butter Cocoa Marshmallows add a rich and indulgent flavor to classic hot chocolate.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 6-8 Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter Cocoa Marshmallows
* Whipped cream, for topping (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, cocoa powder, and sugar.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
5. Top with Peanut Butter Cocoa Marshmallows and whipped cream, if desired.

### 7. Ube Tea Cookie Crumble Topping for Yogurt Parfaits

Add a touch of sweetness and crunch to your yogurt parfaits with this simple crumble topping. The Ube Tea Cookies provide a unique flavor and texture that elevates the parfait to a whole new level.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 Trader Joe’s Ube Tea Cookies
* 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
* 1/2 cup granola
* 1/4 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

**Instructions:**

1. Crush the Ube Tea Cookies into small pieces.
2. In a glass or bowl, layer the yogurt, granola, and berries.
3. Top with the crushed Ube Tea Cookies.
4. Serve immediately.

### 8. Italian Style Soffritto Bruschetta

This simple bruschetta is packed with flavor thanks to the Italian Style Soffritto Starter. It’s a perfect appetizer or light lunch.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Italian Style Soffritto Starter
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. In a small bowl, combine the Italian Style Soffritto Starter and chopped basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top each toasted baguette slice with the soffritto mixture.
7. Serve immediately.

### 9. Crunchy Chili Onion Noodle Bowl

This quick and easy noodle bowl is packed with flavor and texture. The Crunchy Chili Onion adds a spicy and savory kick that will wake up your taste buds.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 oz ramen noodles or your favorite noodles
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1/4 cup chopped scallions
* 2 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Crunchy Chili Onion
* 1/4 cup cooked edamame (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the noodles according to package directions.
2. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
3. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions, and Crunchy Chili Onion. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Top with cooked edamame, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

### 10. Tomato Basil Marinara Pizza Toast

This is a quick and easy pizza alternative that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or snack. The Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce provides a classic and comforting flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 slices of bread
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* Optional toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, olives

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toast the bread lightly.
3. Spread the Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce evenly over the toast.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and any desired toppings.
5. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve immediately.

## Tips for Shopping at Trader Joe’s

* **Go early or late:** Trader Joe’s can get crowded, especially on weekends. Try shopping during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
* **Read the Fearless Flyer:** This monthly newsletter is a great way to stay up-to-date on new products and seasonal items.
* **Don’t be afraid to ask for samples:** Trader Joe’s is known for its generous sampling policy. If you’re curious about a product, ask a crew member for a sample.
* **Try something new!** Trader Joe’s is all about discovery. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new.
* **Check the prices carefully:** While Trader Joe’s is generally affordable, prices can vary slightly by location.
* **Bring reusable bags:** Help reduce waste by bringing your own reusable shopping bags.

## Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s continues to impress with its innovative and affordable products. These new finds for March offer a delicious way to spice up your meals and snacks without breaking the bank. From the flavorful Zhoug Sauce to the crunchy Spicy Chakri Mix, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, head to your local Trader Joe’s and discover your new favorites today! Remember to experiment with these ingredients and create your own culinary masterpieces. Happy cooking!