Trader Joe’s Recall Remix: Waffle & Green Onion Recipes to Salvage Your Groceries

The recent recall of Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles and, in some regions, concerns about green onions can be a frustrating experience. Facing a freezer full of recalled waffles or a bunch of potentially problematic green onions can leave you wondering what to do. Instead of throwing them away (after confirming they are indeed part of the recall and following Trader Joe’s return/disposal instructions, of course!), let’s get creative and find delicious ways to use these ingredients in innovative recipes. Remember, *always* prioritize food safety. If you have *any* doubt about the safety of your green onions, discard them according to the recall guidelines. This guide focuses on scenarios where you are confident in the safety of your green onions, *or* are using previously purchased, unaffected green onions from other sources.

This blog post will provide various recipes to make the most of your Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles and/or green onions, transforming a potential food waste situation into a culinary adventure. We’ll cover both sweet and savory options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Understanding the Recall and Food Safety

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s quickly address the recall situation. While the specifics of recalls can vary, the primary concern is usually contamination with harmful bacteria like Listeria or Salmonella. **It’s crucial to follow Trader Joe’s specific instructions for the recalled products.** This typically involves disposing of the product or returning it to the store for a refund. Do *not* consume recalled items.

**For green onions**, the recall is often linked to potential contamination sources during harvesting or processing. If your green onions are part of the affected batch, dispose of them immediately. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. Always wash green onions thoroughly under running water before use, even if they’re not part of a recall. Consider sourcing green onions from reputable suppliers known for their food safety practices in the future.

**Important Safety Note:** *This blog post assumes you are either using unaffected green onions or alternative sources for your green onions. If your green onions were part of the recall, please discard them according to the instructions provided by Trader Joe’s and any relevant health authorities.* We are emphasizing using the *concept* and *flavor* of green onions in creative ways *if* you have access to safe sources. It is always best to err on the side of caution!

Recipes Featuring Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles (and Green Onions, Where Safe)

Here are a variety of recipes that utilize Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles, sometimes incorporating green onions for added flavor and complexity. Remember to adjust ingredient quantities to your preference.

1. Savory Waffle Breakfast Sandwich with Green Onion Scramble

This recipe transforms your multigrain waffles into a satisfying and protein-packed breakfast sandwich. The addition of green onions to the scrambled eggs adds a delightful savory note.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles
* 2 large eggs
* 1 tablespoon milk or cream
* 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (only use if safe and not part of the recall)
* 1 tablespoon butter or oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
* Optional: Cooked bacon or sausage

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the waffles:** Toast the Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles according to package directions until golden brown and crispy.
2. **Make the green onion scramble:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk/cream, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper.
3. **Cook the scramble:** Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist.
4. **Assemble the sandwich:** Place one slice of cheese on each waffle. If using bacon or sausage, add it on top of the cheese. Top with the green onion scramble and the other waffle slice.
5. **Serve immediately:** Enjoy your savory waffle breakfast sandwich while it’s warm and the cheese is melted.

**Variations:**

* Add a drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick.
* Include sliced avocado for added creaminess.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or Swiss.
* Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or hummus on the waffles before adding the other ingredients.

2. Waffle Pizza with Green Onion Garnish

Who says waffles are only for breakfast? This recipe turns your multigrain waffles into a fun and easy pizza base.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles
* 1/4 cup pizza sauce
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, etc.)
* 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (only use if safe and not part of the recall)
* Optional: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).**
2. **Prepare the waffles:** Place the Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles on a baking sheet.
3. **Add the sauce and cheese:** Spread pizza sauce evenly over each waffle. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
4. **Add your toppings:** Add your favorite pizza toppings.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with chopped green onions (if using) and optional Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
7. **Serve immediately:** Cut the waffle pizzas into wedges and serve warm.

**Variations:**

* Use pesto instead of pizza sauce.
* Try different cheese combinations, such as mozzarella and parmesan.
* Add a drizzle of olive oil after baking.
* Make a dessert pizza with Nutella, sliced bananas, and strawberries.

3. Green Onion and Cheddar Waffle Grilled Cheese

Take your grilled cheese game to the next level with this recipe. The multigrain waffles add a unique texture and flavor, while the green onions and cheddar cheese create a delicious savory filling.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (only use if safe and not part of the recall)
* 1 tablespoon butter

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the filling:** In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions (if using).
2. **Assemble the sandwich:** Spread butter on one side of each waffle. Place one waffle, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle the cheese and green onion mixture on top. Top with the other waffle, butter-side up.
3. **Grill the sandwich:** Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the waffle is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. **Serve immediately:** Cut the grilled cheese in half and serve warm.

**Variations:**

* Add a slice of tomato or ham to the filling.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as Gruyere or Havarti.
* Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the waffles before adding the cheese.
* Serve with a side of tomato soup for dipping.

4. Waffle Monte Cristo with a Green Onion Aioli

A Monte Cristo is a classic sandwich that involves dipping in egg batter and pan-frying. This recipe uses waffles as the bread and adds a green onion aioli for dipping.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles
* 2 slices of ham
* 1 slice of Swiss cheese
* 1 slice of turkey breast
* 1 egg
* 2 tablespoons milk
* 1 tablespoon butter

**For the Green Onion Aioli:**

* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (only use if safe and not part of the recall)
* 1 teaspoon lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

**Instructions:**

1. **Make the Green Onion Aioli:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chopped green onions, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Set aside.
2. **Assemble the sandwich:** Layer the ham, Swiss cheese, and turkey breast between the two waffles.
3. **Prepare the egg batter:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.
4. **Dip the sandwich:** Dip the assembled sandwich in the egg batter, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
5. **Cook the sandwich:** Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, and cheese has melted.
6. **Serve immediately:** Cut the Monte Cristo in half diagonally and serve with the green onion aioli for dipping.

**Variations:**

* Use cranberry sauce to spread on the bread
* Use different types of cheese
* Dust with powdered sugar after cooking.

5. Sweet Waffle Recipes (with a Savory Twist of Green Onion – Optional!)

While the focus so far has been on savory applications, Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles can also be used in sweet recipes. You can even add a touch of green onion for an unexpected savory-sweet contrast (use sparingly and only if you’re feeling adventurous!).

**A. Waffle French Toast with Green Onion Maple Syrup (Optional):**

* **Ingredients:** Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles, eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, butter, maple syrup, chopped green onions (optional).
* **Instructions:** Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Dip the waffles in the egg mixture and cook in a skillet with butter until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup (infused with chopped green onions, if desired).

**B. Waffle Ice Cream Sandwiches with Green Onion Brittle (Optional):**

* **Ingredients:** Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles, your favorite ice cream, chopped nuts, sprinkles, green onion brittle (optional – see recipe below).
* **Instructions:** Spread a layer of ice cream between two waffles. Roll the edges in chopped nuts or sprinkles. Top with crumbled green onion brittle (if using). Freeze for at least 30 minutes before serving.

**Recipe for Green Onion Brittle (Optional):**

* **Ingredients:** 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup chopped green onions (only use if safe and not part of the recall).
* **Instructions:** Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture turns a light amber color. Remove from heat and stir in butter, salt, and chopped green onions. Pour onto a buttered baking sheet and let cool completely. Break into pieces.

**C. Waffle Parfaits with Green Onion Granola (Optional):**

* **Ingredients:** Greek yogurt, Waffle chunks, fruit of your choosing, homemade or store-bought granola, green onion granola (Optional).
* **Instructions:** Layer ingredients into a glass or bowl and enjoy!

6. Waffle Croutons for Soup or Salad (with Green Onion Seasoning)

Transform your multigrain waffles into crunchy croutons perfect for topping soups and salads. Infuse them with green onion flavor for an extra savory touch.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
* 1/2 teaspoon dried chives (or green onion powder, if available – only use if safe sources)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).**
2. **Cut the waffles:** Cut the Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles into small cubes (approximately 1/2 inch). This can be done with a knife or kitchen shears.
3. **Season the croutons:** In a bowl, toss the waffle cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, chives (or green onion powder), salt, and pepper. Make sure the cubes are evenly coated.
4. **Bake the croutons:** Spread the waffle cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
6. **Cool and store:** Let the croutons cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They will crisp up further as they cool.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* Top your favorite soups with waffle croutons for added crunch and flavor.
* Add them to salads for a savory alternative to traditional croutons.
* Use them as a topping for casseroles or gratins.
* Enjoy them as a snack on their own.

**Variations:**

* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor (e.g., rosemary, thyme, oregano).
* Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
* For a sweeter crouton, use a little cinnamon and sugar instead of savory spices.

General Tips and Considerations

* **Don’t overcook the waffles:** When using waffles in savory recipes, avoid over-toasting them, as they can become too dry and brittle. Aim for a golden-brown color.
* **Adjust seasoning to taste:** The recipes provided are a starting point. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Taste as you go and add more salt, pepper, herbs, or spices as needed.
* **Get creative with toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and fillings. Use what you have on hand and try new combinations.
* **Prioritize food safety:** Always wash produce thoroughly before use. Cook eggs and meat to a safe internal temperature. Store leftovers properly.
* **Embrace the unexpected:** This recall situation presents an opportunity to think outside the box and create new and exciting dishes. Have fun and enjoy the process!
* **Substitutes:** If you prefer not using the multigrain waffle, you can consider using alternative items such as toast, bread or other similar items.

Turning a Recall into a Culinary Opportunity

While recalls are never ideal, they don’t have to be a complete waste. By getting creative in the kitchen, you can transform potentially wasted ingredients into delicious and satisfying meals. These recipes are designed to help you make the most of your Trader Joe’s Multigrain Waffles and green onions (when safe), turning a frustrating situation into a culinary adventure. So, embrace the challenge, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the process of creating something new and delicious!