I like sweet potatoes and I like gnocchi, so I had high hopes. Unfortunately, this sweet potato gnocchi is lacking in taste, texture and appearance. The gnocchi is in a butter and sage sauce. Sage typically has a strong and distinct flavor, but it was barely noticeable in this dish. I added lots of sea […]
Trader Joe’s Tom Yam Soup (vegan)
An interesting and satisfying soup. The broth and wontons are tasty, but I was most impressed by the seasoning packet that included lemongrass, Thai basil and chilis. Adds a great flavor boost and a burst of color. Even though this has coconut milk, the total calories and fat are reasonable for this soup. All the […]
Trader Joe’s Organic Superfood Pilaf (vegan)
From the name alone you know this is going to be super healthy – like vegan retreat in an old growth forest healthy! Fortunately, this pilaf is also pretty tasty. All the pieces have distinct tastes and textures. The kale is bright green and the sweet potatoes aren’t too mushy so someone got the freezing […]
Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac & Cheese
The only way this mac and cheese might work is if you’ve never tasted Trader Joe’s totally delicious regular Mac ‘n Cheese. I understand that this low cal version can’t be as yummy as the fatty version, but this just makes me sad. The requisite creaminess of mac and cheese is due to a cheese […]
Trader Joe’s Ricotta & Spinach Ravioli
This entrée looks a little odd right out of the package because the tomato sauce is in the form of perfect little rectangles. However, the sauce cooks up with a nice color, pleasant chunkiness and fresh taste. A little plain as-is, but makes a good base for some creative add-ons. Try adding some sautéed mushrooms […]
Trader Joe’s Pizza Greco-Roman
This pizza doesn’t look anything like the photo and isn’t very impressive out of the box due to what appears to be a skimpy amount of toppings. However, this pizza works because the crust is relatively thin and the toppings are very flavorful. The combination of feta cheese, roasted red peppers and kalamata olives is […]
Trader Joe’s Greens & Seeds Salad
I’m always on the lookout for new salads at Trader Joe’s. This one looked interesting, but it isn’t tasty enough to replace my favorites. The squash is a little too mushy for a salad and the pomegranate seeds are like crunching on small pebbles. I’m glad I tried this, but it’s not a keeper. Location: […]
Trader Joe’s Sweet Potato Frites (vegan)
I love sweet potato fries, but these fries are really disappointing. Even if you bake them longer and hotter than instructed, the fries are soggy and rather bland. These are edible, but far from delightful, with extra salt and spicy ketchup or barbecue sauce. This is one of the few items TJ’s provides deep fry […]
Trader Joe’s Vegetable Fried Rice (vegan)
This an easy, versatile and colorful rice dish. The edamame is a nice touch in addition to the usual green peas. I prefer the flavor of TJ’s Japanese-style fried rice better, but this dish provides a nice neutral base that can be seasoned as you wish. Good starting point for a meal with stir fry […]
Trader Joe’s Aloo Chaat Kali Pouches
Well the name is certainly a mouthful! Unfortunately, this is an interesting product that doesn’t quite work. The crust reminds me of a McDonald’s apple pie. The filling is tasty, but visually unappealing (mushy and brown). These would be more appealing if there was some mint or tamarind chutney to dip in. Crisping sleeves are […]