Trader Joe’s Treasures: Delicious Dishes Under $5 with February’s Best Finds
February can be a tough month – the holiday cheer has faded, the weather is often dreary, and sometimes your budget needs a little TLC. Luckily, Trader Joe’s is here to brighten things up with delicious and affordable options! This month, we’re diving into the best new (or newly discovered) Trader Joe’s products that ring in under $5 each, and showcasing how to turn them into simple, satisfying meals. Get ready to whip up some culinary magic without breaking the bank!
**Why Trader Joe’s?**
Trader Joe’s is a haven for budget-friendly foodies. Their unique products, commitment to quality, and reasonable prices make it the perfect place to find interesting ingredients and create tasty meals without emptying your wallet. Plus, their constantly rotating selection means there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
**The Star Ingredients (All Under $5!)**
Before we get to the recipes, let’s spotlight the Trader Joe’s heroes that make these dishes possible. Prices may vary slightly depending on your location, but these should generally be under $5:
* **Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend:** This is a classic for a reason! It adds a burst of flavor to everything from avocado toast to grilled chicken. (Approx. $1.99)
* **Trader Joe’s Spicy Miso Ramen Soup:** A quick and flavorful base for a variety of dishes. Add veggies and protein for a more substantial meal. (Approx. $2.49)
* **Trader Joe’s Peanut Satay Noodles:** Pre-cooked noodles with a delicious peanut sauce. Easy to customize with your favorite additions. (Approx. $3.49)
* **Trader Joe’s Canned Chickpeas:** A pantry staple! Versatile and packed with protein. (Approx. $0.99)
* **Trader Joe’s Canned Diced Tomatoes:** Another pantry must-have for soups, sauces, and stews. (Approx. $0.79)
* **Trader Joe’s Frozen Riced Cauliflower:** A healthy and convenient way to add vegetables to your meals. (Approx. $2.99)
* **Trader Joe’s Spiced Chai Black Tea Bags:** Perfect for a cozy and flavorful beverage. (Approx. $3.49)
* **Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac and Cheese:** A lighter take on a comfort food classic. (Approx. $2.29)
* **Trader Joe’s Corn and Chile Tomato-Less Salsa:** Great with chips, eggs, or as a topping for your favorite protein. (Approx. $2.99)
* **Trader Joe’s Hard Cooked Eggs:** A convenient and protein-packed snack or addition to salads. (Approx. $2.99 for a package of 6)
**The Recipes: Delicious Dishes Under $5**
Now for the fun part! Here are some simple and delicious recipes you can create using these Trader Joe’s staples:
**Recipe 1: Spicy Miso Ramen Noodle Bowl Upgrade**
This recipe transforms the humble Trader Joe’s Spicy Miso Ramen Soup into a satisfying and flavorful meal.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Spicy Miso Ramen Soup (Approx. $2.49)
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Frozen Riced Cauliflower (Approx. $0.75)
* 1 Hard Cooked Egg, sliced (Approx. $0.50)
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions (if you have some on hand, optional)
* Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for extra heat)
* **Instructions:**
1. Prepare the Trader Joe’s Spicy Miso Ramen Soup according to the package directions.
2. While the soup is cooking, microwave the frozen riced cauliflower according to package directions.
3. Once the ramen is cooked, stir in the riced cauliflower.
4. Pour the soup into a bowl.
5. Top with sliced hard-cooked egg and green onions (if using).
6. Drizzle with sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra spice, if desired.
* **Cost Breakdown:** $3.74 (approximately)
**Recipe 2: Everything Bagel Chickpea Salad Sandwich**
This vegetarian sandwich is packed with flavor and protein, thanks to the chickpeas and Everything But The Bagel seasoning.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1/2 can Trader Joe’s Canned Chickpeas (Approx. $0.50)
* 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (you likely already have this!)
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (you likely already have this!)
* 1 tablespoon Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend (Approx. $0.20)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 slices of bread (you likely already have this!)
* Lettuce or spinach (optional, you likely already have this!)
* **Instructions:**
1. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until they are partially broken down.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Everything But The Bagel seasoning, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well.
4. Spread the chickpea salad onto one slice of bread.
5. Top with lettuce or spinach (if using).
6. Cover with the other slice of bread.
7. Slice in half and enjoy!
* **Cost Breakdown:** $0.70 (excluding bread, mayo, mustard, lettuce)
**Recipe 3: Peanut Satay Noodle Stir-Fry with a Twist**
Elevate your Trader Joe’s Peanut Satay Noodles with a quick stir-fry of frozen vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Peanut Satay Noodles (Approx. $3.49)
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Frozen Broccoli Florets (or any frozen veggie you have on hand) (Approx. $0.50)
* Soy sauce or tamari (optional, you likely already have this!)
* Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for extra heat)
* **Instructions:**
1. Cook the frozen broccoli florets according to package directions (microwaving is quick and easy).
2. While the broccoli is cooking, prepare the Trader Joe’s Peanut Satay Noodles according to package directions.
3. Once the broccoli is cooked, add it to the noodles.
4. Stir in a splash of soy sauce or tamari (if using).
5. Drizzle with sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra spice, if desired.
* **Cost Breakdown:** $3.99 (approximately)
**Recipe 4: Reduced Guilt Mac and Cheese with Corn and Chile Salsa Kick**
Spice up your comfort food with a zesty topping!
* **Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac and Cheese (Approx. $2.29)
* 1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Corn and Chile Tomato-Less Salsa (Approx. $0.75)
* **Instructions:**
1. Prepare the Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac and Cheese according to the package directions.
2. Top with the Corn and Chile Tomato-Less Salsa.
3. Enjoy the tangy and slightly spicy flavor combination!
* **Cost Breakdown:** $3.04 (approximately)
**Recipe 5: Speedy Shakshuka with Canned Tomatoes and Eggs**
This simplified version of Shakshuka uses pantry staples for a quick and flavorful brunch or light dinner.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1/2 can Trader Joe’s Canned Diced Tomatoes (Approx. $0.40)
* 2 Hard Cooked Eggs (Approx. $1.00)
* 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (you likely already have this!)
* 1/4 teaspoon cumin (you likely already have this!)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Olive oil (you likely already have this!)
* **Instructions:**
1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the canned diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Carefully crack the hard-cooked eggs into the sauce.
4. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny. (If you prefer your yolks cooked through, cook longer.)
5. Serve immediately with crusty bread (if you have some on hand) for dipping.
* **Cost Breakdown:** $1.40 (excluding olive oil and spices)
**Recipe 6: EBTB Avocado Toast (Elevated!)**
A classic made even better with a budget-friendly twist.
* **Ingredients:**
* 1/2 Avocado (you likely already have this, but can often find them for under $1 at Trader Joe’s!)
* 2 slices of Bread (you likely already have this!)
* Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend (Approx. $0.10)
* Red Pepper Flakes (optional – you likely already have this!)
* **Instructions:**
1. Toast your bread to your liking.
2. While the bread is toasting, mash the avocado in a small bowl.
3. Spread the mashed avocado evenly onto the toast.
4. Generously sprinkle with Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.
5. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat (optional).
* **Cost Breakdown:** $0.10 (excluding bread, avocado, and red pepper flakes)
**Beyond the Recipes: Tips for Thrifty Trader Joe’s Shopping**
* **Plan your meals:** Before you head to Trader Joe’s, plan out what you want to make. This will help you avoid impulse buys and stick to your budget.
* **Check the Fearless Flyer:** Trader Joe’s weekly flyer highlights new products and special deals. This is a great way to discover hidden gems and save money.
* **Shop the perimeter:** Focus on fresh produce, dairy, and meat. These items are often more affordable than processed foods.
* **Don’t be afraid of private label brands:** Trader Joe’s private label products are often just as good (if not better) than name-brand alternatives.
* **Take advantage of free samples:** Trader Joe’s often offers free samples of their products. This is a great way to try new things before you buy them.
* **Stock up on staples:** Items like canned beans, rice, and pasta are inexpensive and can be used in a variety of dishes.
* **Embrace frozen foods:** Frozen fruits and vegetables are a great way to save money and reduce food waste. They are also just as nutritious as fresh produce.
**Spice Up Your Life (and Your Budget!) with Trader Joe’s**
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Trader Joe’s is a playground for creative cooks, and the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own budget-friendly masterpieces. February doesn’t have to be a month of culinary blahs. With a little creativity and these Trader Joe’s treasures, you can enjoy delicious and affordable meals all month long!
**Bonus Tip:** Keep an eye out for seasonal items! Trader Joe’s often introduces limited-time products that are both delicious and affordable.
**Even More Trader Joe’s Finds Under $5 to Consider:**
* **Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken (Sauce Only):** While the full product is more, a single portion of the sauce can add flavor to noodles or stir-fries.
* **Trader Joe’s Organic Brown Rice:** A healthy and versatile grain.
* **Trader Joe’s Pita Bread:** Great for sandwiches, dipping, or making mini pizzas.
* **Trader Joe’s Coffee Bags (Single Serve):** A convenient and affordable way to enjoy a cup of coffee.
* **Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Lover’s Bar (a small square):** Indulge your sweet tooth without overspending!
Happy Cooking and Happy Shopping!