Now that we’re in the final months of the school year, you’re likely getting a wee bit sick of packing those lunches (and the kids have pretty much sworn off PB&Js at this point). Trader Joe’s to the rescue! We scoured the aisles for some lunch alternatives to get your kids some protein and make lunch packing easy for you. No sandwiches made the list but we know the kids are going to be thrilled with all these new options. Next step: getting them to pack their lunches themselves!
Sandwich Alternatives from Trader Joe’s
Mediterranean Style Hummus Snack Pack
These little packs are a great option as they come pre-portioned with pita chips and have 9g of protein per container. Each pack contains two chip/dip pairs.
Chomps Meat Sticks
Found in beef, jalapeno beef, and turkey varieties, we like these as a lunch option because they don’t need to be refrigerated. Cut them up for smaller kids or leave them whole for the pre-teens.
Yogurt Smoothies
If you have a kid who complains that lunch isn’t long enough to eat what you’ve packed, then go for one of these drinkable smoothies.
Ciliegine Mozzarella Balls
Pop a few of these teeny tiny mozzarella balls into a tupperware for an on-the-go snack or addition to your kid’s lunchbox.
Fresh Hard-Cooked Peeled Eggs
Don’t sleep on these as an easy lunch option. There’s no cooking or peeling needed and they’re soft enough to send with even the little ones.
ABC Bars
As long as you don’t have any nut allergies in your classroom, we love to bring these Almond Butter Cocoa Bars to school for a recess option that comes in at 4g protein.
Volpi Snacks Roltini
Kids who like salty things will enjoy having these prosciutto-wrapped cheese sticks in their lunch. Add some crackers and that can get them through the afternoon with no problem.
Organic Mini Cheese Sandwich Crackers
We love these minis for a Bento box alternative. They also come in a peanut butter flavor but we like the cheese option for school lunches.
Indian Flatbread
Sometimes all you need to get yourself out of a lunch rut is a different type of bread. We like the plain version of this flatbread smeared with sunbutter or jam. They stay nice and soft until lunchtime.
This Fruit Walks Into a Bar
These fruit bars come in apple, blueberry, and other flavors and are easy to pop into a lunchbox for a sandwich swap or an after-school snack.
Papadums
We love the unique flavor of these crisps and the fact that they have 5g of protein per serving.
Fruit Alternatives from Trader Joe’s
Apple Chip Duo
You just might be able to get away with ditching the Doritos if you add these “chip” options to their lunchbox. They are crunchy and the right balance of tart and sweet. Plus you won’t have anyone complaining about them turning brown during the day.
Bamba Puffed Peanut and Corn Snacks
We can never have too many chip alternatives.
Inner Peas
Another crunchy chip alternative, Inner Peas are a salty, baked green bean snack that are addictively delicious when served with hummus.
Organic Banana Chips
If you’ve ever tried to pack a banana in a lunch, you know it’s pretty much guaranteed to come out brown and mushy. These crunchy chips are a good option. We also love to bring them in our backpacks for a hike.
Soft & Juicy Mandarins
These can be hard to find sometimes but we’ve spotted them recently at TJs and that will make for some happy kids. They are super sweet and no peeling necessary.
Fruit Sauce Crushers
These organic beauties come in several flavors and are super easy for kids to open. You don’t need to include a spoon. They’ll just gobble them up!
Fruit Bars
We have yet to meet a kid who doesn’t like these chewy bars. The apple and mango flavor is particularly delicious.
New Zealand Sweet Apple Rings
These sweet treats have the texture of fruit leather and stand up well to the bumpy ride that lunchbox fruit must endure.
Freeze-Dried Fruit
These can get a little messy when not properly contained (hello, purple fingers) but we love the crunch and kids do too.
Fruit Wrap
These are an even-more-delicious version of the fruit leather of our childhood. Embrace them.
Spring at Trader Joe’s brings the cutest plants and lemon everything
Warmer weather, beautiful blooms, tasty treats—that’s right, spring is almost springing! In typical fashion, there are tons of new Trader Joe’s items for the season that will have you more than ready to make a grocery run. With all the lemon products hitting the shelves, we can tell that TJ’s is all in. There are even a few products perfect for school lunches on the list.
Assorted Foliage in a Bunny
These cuties are a top pick for spring every year, and you’ll want to grab one before your store sells out for the season. They come with a variety of plant options so you might have to get yourself a colony.
Candy Coated Dark Chocolate Almonds
These babies are cute enough for Easter baskets but tasty enough to keep for yourself. They tend to sell out well before the holiday, so snag now before they hop away.
Gourmet Jelly Beans
Just in time for Easter basket stuffing, these big bags of gourmet jelly beans have hit the shelves. You’ll love that they have no artificial colors or flavors. The kids will just love them, period.
Peas & Carrots Sour Gummy Candies
You’ll definitely be able to get the kids to eat their peas and carrots when they come in gummy form. The peas are like sour Skittles and the carrots are a traditional sour gummy candy. Yes, we tried them so that we could report back (that’s the official story, at least).
Pastel Hyacinths
If you’re heading to a spring party this weekend, bring along one of these colorful hyacinths. They’ll dress up any doorstep!
Cheery Lemon Animal Crackers
We’ve never seen these cuties on the shelves before and we know that the kids will go wild to find them in their lunchbox this spring.
Raspberry Kringle
Either you love Kringles or you LOVE Kringles. There’s no in-between. The spring flavor is raspberry and it tops our list for sure. Perfect for breakfast or to share as an after-school snack.
Lemon Mini Sheet Cake
We don’t blame you if this is one of those treats that you don’t share with the kids. You can always find the vanilla version of this cake at Trader Joe’s but the lemon sheet cake is our favorite. It packs just the right amount of sour/sweet punch.
The spring version of this holiday snack mix is cute to have in a bowl for the next party you are planning. It is a mix of yogurt-coated pretzels, butter toffee peanuts, milk and dark chocolate peanut butter cups, broken pieces of dark chocolate Joe-Joe’s, and nonpareils.
Scented Candle Trio
We’re a sucker for all the candles at Trader Joe’s and this one instantly made its way into our cart. You’ll get tiny tins of raspberry/rose, rhubarb/bamboo, and lemon verbena. The lemon is our favorite, naturally.
Mini Succulents
Is it wrong to buy a succulent every time you visit Trader Joe’s? We think not. These cuties were looking extra spring-like with tiny flowers sprouting out of them. Just what you need to get you through the last dreary months before summer comes around.
If you recently welcomed a new baby, your life has probably been turned upside down. From physical and emotional exhaustion, and the challenges of recovering from labor, to those wild hormonal shifts (seriously, why am I crying one minute and laughing the next?), your body takes a serious toll. And did we mention there’s still a tiny living creature to take care of? With all that chaos, self-care usually takes the backseat, especially when it comes to feeding yourself. But during this recovery phase, a nutritious postpartum diet is crucial, and certain foods can play a key role in helping you heal and regain your strength.
The best postpartum foods to eat are ones that provide essential nutrients to support your recovery. Not only do they nourish and give you energy, but they also offer ample calories to keep you satiated between newborn feeds (and cuddles). As a dietitian, I recommend these 7 foods to support new moms and help them feel their best.
1. Salmon
Salmon is a top pick because it’s packed with omega-3s to help reduce inflammation, and lean protein to assist in repairing stretched and torn tissues. When you’re in a pinch, try roasting it with garlic salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Or whip up some quick salmon rice bowls by baking it with teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, and fresh garlic. If you have an air-fryer, try this drool-worthy salmon bites recipe (the cook time is less than 10 minutes!).
Plant-based sources of omega-3s include chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and walnuts. If you follow a vegetarian diet, consider sprinkling chia and hemp seeds on cottage cheese, using ground flaxseed as a substitute for eggs in baked goods, or tossing walnuts into salads or pasta dishes.
2. Oats
Make carbs count with oats, which are loaded with protein, fiber, and iron. Keep it simple with stovetop oatmeal or overnight oats, and if you’re feeling creative, try oatmeal muffins or chunky monkey banana bread, which both freeze well too. Plus, while research is still limited, oats can potentially increase milk supply, which can be a lifesaver for breastfeeding moms.
3. Nuts and nut butter
When you’re running on fumes from caring for your newborn, spending hours in the kitchen is likely the last thing on your mind. Nuts are the ultimate no-fuss power snack, packed with healthy fats and protein. Plus, they’re calorie-dense, and postpartum moms need those extra calories to support recovery. Slather peanut butter on toast, dunk apple slices in creamy almond butter, or toss a handful of nuts into a salad for a satisfying crunch. If you’re craving some comfort food, incorporate nuts into dishes like Thai peanut curry and cashew chicken, or use this peanut butter sauce as a marinade for proteins, a salad dressing, or a dipping sauce for spring rolls.
4. Beef
Whether you prefer ground beef, skirt steak, or brisket, they’re all fantastic sources of iron which helps replenish blood loss from labor. My fave method for cooking beef is using the Crock-Pot or slow cooker—just toss it in, forget about it, and it’s ready for dinner. Try making beef stew, spaghetti bolognese, or this easy slow-cooker brisket recipe, which are all nutrient-rich options that require minimal effort.
If you’re looking for vegan foods that are iron-rich, add beans, lentils, tofu, and quinoa into your meals. I love this simple slow-cooker Mediterranean lentil stew and this stir-fry recipe that includes both tofu and quinoa.
5. Eggs
Not only are eggs one of the most affordable animal proteins, but they’re also among the quickest to prepare. They’re rich in protein, vitamin D for immune support, and choline which supports brain development in breastfed babies. Enjoy them hard-boiled, scrambled, or poached, or incorporate them into dishes like veggie fried rice or Middle-Eastern shakshuka.
With a whopping 10 grams of fiber per cup and loads of magnesium, avocados are an essential food when you’re dealing with postpartum constipation. Both fiber and magnesium promote regular bowel movements, offering gentle relief during this phase. Blend avocados into smoothies for an extra creamy texture, dip some veggies guacamole or avocado salsa, or snack on some avocado chocolate mousse for a delicious treat.
7. Greek yogurt
I’m a big fan of Greek yogurt because it’s packed with protein and serves as an excellent source of calcium, which is crucial for replenishing lost stores during pregnancy and maintaining strong bones. Opt for unsweetened varieties, and if you’re craving a touch of sweetness you can always add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. For a quick and delicious breakfast option, throw together a breakfast parfait with alternating layers of Greek yogurt, berries, and granola. And if you find yourself with some extra time between naps, experiment with recipes like a berry yogurt bake or this creamy Caesar salad-dressing alternative.
These healthy Trader Joe’s products top our list for the new year
Whether you’re looking for a way to scale back on the junk, add some smarter snacks, or kick-start healthy habits in general, there are plenty of helpful options at your favorite neighborhood market. Fill up your cart in the fruit and veggie section and then add a few of our favorite healthy Trader Joe’s products to have at the ready. If you need some meal-prep help, check out our favorite Trader Joe’s meals you can make in 15 minutes or less.
Healthy Trader Joe’s Breakfast Products
Egg Wraps
Kate Loweth
We love these wraps as a breakfast burrito tortilla alternative or topped with fruit for a sweet crepe breakfast. Kids won't be able to tell the difference, we promise! Bonus: there's 4g of protein in each wrap.
While you have to be careful when consuming granola since it’s normally high in sugar and fat, this peanut butter protein granola has 11 grams of protein per serving! Enjoy in small amounts atop yogurt for that extra protein serving your body is craving.
When it comes to a dense, nutritious breakfast, you can never go wrong with oatmeal. It packs a healthy portion of carbs and fiber, is rich in antioxidants, and can help lower your cholesterol and improve blood sugar control. Plus, it’s super tasty in homemade protein bars and in a smoothie, too!
You love these little bites from Starbucks and now you can have them every day of the week at home. They come in a cheese, spinach, and kale flavor as well as bacon and cheese. Pop them in the microwave and serve with a dollop of salsa.
Raisin Walnut Apple Bars
We love these little bars as they are packed with protein (10g per bar!) but they have the texture of a roll. Easy to eat on the go, these bars are packed with raisins, walnuts, and apples for a satisfying breakfast option.
Healthy Trader Joe’s Snacks
Papdums
These lentil and chickpea crisps will be your new favorite snacks. One warning: You might just eat the whole bag in one sitting. They have a lovely light Indian flavor with the texture of Pringles. Great served with your favorite hummus.
ABC Bars
We love these for kids' lunches as they have 4g of protein and taste great. The chocolatey dough enrobes the almond butter center and feels like a treat.
Roasted Seaweed Snack
Crunchy, salty, and easy to pack in your kid's lunch. We love this seaweed snack to top ramen bowls.
These dried cranberries are perfect for snacking and are fortified with cranberry seed oil. They have 200mg of omega-3’s per serving and would be super tasty on a salad, in oatmeal, or enjoyed by the handful.
Veggie & Flax Seed Corn Tortilla Chips
You get the whole package with this bag of chips. Carrot, tomato, spinach, garlic, red beet, and onion plus lots of omega-3's are all found in this inexpensive and flavorful snack.
Acai is a superfood! These pre-made puree packets are loaded with antioxidants and are low in sugar (fruit is usually high in natural sugars). Perfect for that morning smoothie bowl.
Whole Flax Seed
Flax seed is easy to add to your yogurt, homemade protein bars, and smoothies for a nice, nutty taste and texture. It's rich in omega-3s, fiber, and lignans, which block the effects of estrogen and could potentially help reduce the risk of hormone-associated cancers, such as breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate.
Organic Chia Seed
Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids (that help raise your "good cholesterol"), fiber, antioxidants, iron, and calcium. They also help with reducing inflammation and weight loss and are easy to make into overnight chia seed pudding.
Healthy Trader Joe’s Beverages
Kefir & Cultured Milk
This kefir and cultured milk combo has 12 live and active cultures, packs a lot of protein, and is full of vitamin D. Kefir is a powerful probiotic, can improve bone health, and can aid with digestive problems.
Super Antioxidant Green Tea
Green tea is a must for healthy living: It helps regulate glucose levels, reduces bad cholesterol and high blood pressure, and might even help with aging and wrinkles.
Made with just coconut water, sap, and sea salt, Organic Coconut Aminos Seasoning Sauce is the perfect swap for sodium-laden soy sauce. The gluten-free, kosher sauce contains no soy, but 13 amino acids that make this product a must for stir-fries, fried rice, veggies, and more.
Add flavor without all the carbs a tasty bagel usually brings when you use TJ’s coveted Everything but the Bagel Seasoning. The blend is made with poppy seeds, minced garlic and onion, sea salt flakes, and sesame seeds and is a great addition to anything! Try on hardboiled eggs, avo toast, and even your fave dinners.
Kerrygold Grass-Fed Butter
Kerrygold grass-fed butter is not only better for baking, but it also possesses properties that are anti-inflammatory and makes for an excellent Vitamin A source.
Sunflower Seed Butter
Sunflower butter is not only an alternative to peanuts, but is also an excellent source of protein, vitamin E, magnesium, and lots of other healthy fats. It's also great for kiddos who attend schools with a "no nut policy."
Healthy Trader Joe’s Lunch and Dinner Products
All-Natural Chicken Breasts
These pre-cooked chicken breasts are deliciously flavorful and a great option to have on hand for quesadillas, sandwiches, salads, or soups. Each chicken breast is individually wrapped. You can find these in the deli section.
Beef Bulgogi
This frozen product is quickly topping our list of go-to items to have on hand when dinner needs to come together fast. Add some of the garlicky cabbage and serve this with rice for a filling meal. There's also a meatless option if that's your jam.
Stir-Fried Garlicky Cabbage
Inspired by the Thai dish Galam Plee Pad Nam Pla, this simple stir-fry of cabbage, a whole lot of garlic, and fish sauce makes a tasty addition to your meal whether you have it as a side or mix it in with your stir-fry.
Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup
One of the most popular healthy Trader Joe's products, this soup is all the rage these days as a serving will really fill you up with a whopping 16g of protein. Plus, it's pretty delicious.
Spicy Mexican-Style Riced Cauliflower
This little packet really packs a flavor punch and is a great addition to taco night. It has around 200 calories in the whole bag, which makes it an easy add-on to your weekly menu plan.
Harvest Grains Blend
This hearty and healthy blend packs lots of protein and fiber. It's made up of orzo, garbanzo beans, red quinoa, and couscous that can easily be paired with meat to make a full meal.
Frozen Brown Rice & Rice Medley
Brown rice far surpasses its white rice cousin when it comes to nutritional value, but it takes forever to cook. This box of three frozen brown rice packets makes eating healthy a cinch––microwave for three minutes and enjoy perfectly cooked rice (and no rice cooker cleanup!). Try the Rice Medley when you want a little more texture.
Organic & Sprouted TriColor Quinoa
Quinoa is referred to as a superfood and is higher in fiber than most other grains. It also has tons of protein, is low on the glycemic index, and is gluten-free.
Colorful Carrot Coins
We love these as a potato alternative to that pork roast you plan to serve for dinner. Pop them in the air fryer to get the perfect blend of soft inside and crunchy outside.
Lentils are high in fiber and therefore lower your cholesterol and chances of heart disease. Toss into a soup and enjoy increased energy, stabilized blood sugar, and a healthy gut.
Riced Cauliflower Bowl
Cut the carbs by substituting cauliflower "rice" for its white counterpart. When you use this easy, pre-made version from Trader Joe's, you'll get all the benefits of cauliflower, like tons of fiber, cancer-fighting properties, improved blood pressure and kidney function, and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
You’re going to want to send this to your special someone, because they so deserve a boo basket
Whether you’ve heard of them or not yet, boo baskets are the newest Halloween-y project that’s gone viral. How do we know? TikTok, obviously. TikTok creator @emmasemingson‘s video seems to be at the heart of the trend (though we can’t say for sure whether or not she’s the Boo Basket Originator, she definitely knows her stuff).
See? Apparently, friends, you are entitled to a basket chock full of fall and Halloween goodies and we didn’t even know it. A boo basket is basically a basket (surprise!) with all sorts of little gifts and treats to celebrate the season. Wives and girlfriends appear to make up the bulk of recipients, though, of course, you can make a boo basket for anyone in your life. In fact, there are some people who use the ‘pass it along’ method of ‘booing’ someone. They leave a basket for a friend or neighbor, and that’s their cue to make one for someone else. But, you can give them however you want!
And, sure, it may feel like they’re just another thing to worry about during an already busy season, but trust us. These are seriously adorable, and, as TikTok creator Hunter from the account @maya.and.hunter points out, if your wife sends you a video of something, go ahead and do that something.
So, we highly recommend you send this list to your boyfriend, husband, or partner with a winky emoji, just as a little hint. If you’re looking for inspiration yourself, you’re definitely in the right place, too. Either way, we’ve got all sorts of great ideas for filling your fall/Halloween gift basket for your favorite people. Choose your basket and get to creating with our picks below!
A Pumpkin Pair for Their Fall Feet
Amazon
It's cooler outside—finally. And while we're loving it, our feet? Not so much. Keep them toasty with these slippers! Available in 3 colors and several sizes.
Their Pura diffuser could use a little Disney villain magic. Each one of these scents is inspired by a different favorite Disney character that'll fill the house with Pura's signature smart scents. If they don't have a Pura diffuser yet, throw one in, too!
Made with a fruity blend of blackberry juice, blood orange juice and lemon juice, our haunting cocktail mixer is highlighted with ginger and subtly sweetened with agave. Its bewitching purple hue and syrupy texture create a spellbinding beverage—mix with vodka or sparkling water!
'Obsessed' is probably an understatement when we talk about our feelings toward this adorable tumbler. It's available in multiple colors and you can even add a super cute tumbler topper!
A Spice Blend No Self-Respecting Fall Lover Can Resist
Spiceology
Pumpkin Spice is the magic word that makes the leave change color (we think). Even if that's not totally true, this Pumpkin Spice blend from Spiceology can be used in so. many. ways. Coffee, baking, over oatmeal, just to smell...the possibilities are pretty much endless.
Made with 100% pure avocado oil and a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice, this Pumpkin Spice Olive Oil Caviar is best with ice cream, coffee, pastries, and more.
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Full disclosure: we’re making the pizza buns for the extras that get left at home
If you want to get ahead of the game when it comes to coming up with creative school lunch ideas for kids, we’re here for it. Get your kids out of the PB&J rut with 30 great recipes that include roll-up recipes, homemade Lunchables, simple bento lunches, and more! Read on for the scrumptious kids’ lunch ideas for school—and expect an empty bento box to come back every time.
The sweet and savory combo of apples and cheese is complimented by ham or turkey for a unique take on a school lunch idea for kids. We think Honeycrisp apples would be perfect! Get more details from Weelicious.
If your kiddo is pizza crazy, check this out: tortilla pizza from Kristine's Kitchen! It's a more lunchbox-friendly way to pack a pizza pie and pairs great with veggies, too.
Have you heard about this hummus lunch idea from One Lovely Life? It's simple: your kiddo's fave hummus, combined with fresh veggies, pretzels, and pita crisps for dunking. No muss, no fuss!
These pinwheels are pretty as a picture and infinitely customizable to boot. Chelsea's Messy Apron has all the deets on this lunch idea, including how you can give it a boost with lunchbox-friendly ranch dip!
Two words: freezer sandwiches. A Taste of Madness has struck make-ahead magic with these ham and cheese creations. Just heat them up in the morning for a quick and easy school lunch that's packed with gooey cheesy goodness.
Kids love kabobs, and Weelicious gives you six different ideas for lunch versions. From caprese to BLT to the fancy brunch kabob, there's one for every palate.
Boring lunches have nothin' on this muffin lunch. It's the perfect whole wheat and banana combo and pairs great with a hard-boiled egg for an extra dose of protein. Learn more at Kristine's Kitchen.
Mini Corndog Muffins
Shutterstock
Got a class clown on your hands? Give their lunch those carnival vibes with this version of a corn dog in muffin form. These bites are good warm or cold and super simple to make!
Mac and cheese is a surefire win for our kids, which is why we love this take on easy mac from Food Fanatic. The best part? It’s made entirely in the microwave and comes together in a flash.
Basil, parmesan, and sunflower seeds combine to make this fresh and flavorful nut-free pesto. Mix it up in pasta, use it as a sandwich spread, or make it a yummy dip for veggies.
Two words: pizza bites. Keep a batch in the freezer, and you’ll always have them ready for an easy school lunch idea for kids. Get the recipe at Super Healthy Kids.
Pack a salad loaded with goodies, and add a container of dressing on the side. Try out this kiddie cobb salad from Katie Sullivan Morford of Mom's Kitchen Handbook.
How do you turn lunchtime into a real fiesta? With these easy deconstructed nachos, courtesy of What Lisa Cooks. This idea not only skips the mess of traditional nachos but it can also be thrown together in about five minutes.
Thanks to Simple As That, you can treat little pizza connoisseurs to a creative school lunch that doesn’t involve foil-wrapped slices. These cheesy buns are simple to whip up (kids can even help with the prep work), and they can be tossed in the freezer for those days when you need a lunch or snack ASAP.
Okay, so we said there was no PB&J to be seen, but sometimes a home run lunch isn’t about reinventing the wheel. Just take this school lunch idea from A Whisk and Two Wands. Alternate your sandwich bites with healthy fruit, and you’re all set for school.
Sometimes you just need to embrace kid food quirks—like when they get attached to one particular color. This genius idea from The Mom 100 groups great green munchies like pesto pasta, broccoli, and grapes (If your kid is hooked on a different hue, The Mom 100 also has orange and yellow lunches on her blog!).
We love how this idea from Weelicious incorporates fun flavors and lots of grated carrots. It’s perfect for when you want to amp up your kids’ veggie intake–or when you want to pack a lunch that looks impressive but takes minutes to make.
Kids love the DIY aspect of Lunchables (go figure), but those unmade lunches can get pricey. Cue Snap. Eat. Run., which outlines how to make your own cheaper and healthier version of pizza Lunchables. You only need a few minutes to get these ready, and you can even make them ahead of time and toss them in a school bag on the way out the door.
What do you get when you take the classic BLT and give it a school lunch twist? These bite-sized rollups from The Girl Who Ate Everything! These are easy to put together and adaptable too, so feel free to get creative with whole wheat tortillas, hummus, sprouts, sliced chicken, or whatever else is in the crisper drawer.
Teacher, foodie, blogger, and supermom Lexi of Lexi’s Clean Kitchen is our hero. She created this paleo-friendly recipe with flaxseed, tapioca flour, and a whole lot of flavor for lunchtime. Pack a little dipping sauce and handi-wipes for the best finger food lunch in the cafeteria!
Think beyond bread! Add a Pinch shows how to include savory applewiches in your little one’s lunch. The filling ingredients include cheddar cheese and peanut butter–but if your kids’ school is a peanut-free zone, you can always substitute in other kinds of nut butter.
Talk about using your noodle! This school lunch idea for kids from Hip Foodie Mom can be whipped up quickly in the morning and features tasty Asian flavors (Think low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, and more.). It’s great for kids who are tired of the ol’ sandwich route and great for those who have mini lunch containers, too.
Catherine McCord always has simple and fun ideas to please even the pickiest eaters. These sandwiches from Weelicious scream tea party and are a total hit when it comes to school lunches. Just make sure to stash a cold pack in those lunch bags so the cream cheese can stay cool all morning!
Find your favorite pumpkin recipes for the fall season
Pumpkin isn’t just for lattes—at this time of year, we love incorporating the humble fruit (yes, fruit!) into as many different recipes as we can, from savory pumpkin recipes like cheesy pasta dishes to indulgent desserts and even healthy pumpkin pie. As long as you’re in the holiday spirit, you may want to bookmark some Halloween-themed dinner ideas as well as easy Halloween treats. And on nights when you’re in the mood for some good eats but want to do minimal work, check out these killer CrockPot recipes or make a beeline for the pumpkin offerings at Trader Joe’s.
If you and your crew like pumpkin pie then you'll love these warm pumpkin pudding cakes from The View from Great Island. Topped with pecans and whipped cream, these mini soufflés are a great way to branch out from your go-to pumpkin pie this holiday season.
For the true pumpkin-heads out there, pumpkin butter is a dream come true. This version from Koti Beth is made with pumpkin puree, a little sweetener and spices, and tastes great spread on toast, swirled into yogurt or oatmeal, or dolloped on top of pancakes or ice cream. It also makes for a delicious edible gift around the holidays.
Cheesecake meets pumpkin in this genius (and super easy) recipe from Erhardts Eat. Once the dip is whipped together, your whole crew can go to town dipping sliced apples, cookies, pretzels, and graham crackers.
For a little something different, try these delish vegan brownies from Rhian’s Recipes. They’re naturally sweetened with dates and are gluten-free for sensitive tummies.
Pumpkin bliss is just a few hours away, thanks to this recipe from Under the Willow Tree. It’s even vegan, so all you’ll need is a can of coconut milk, pumpkin puree, and a few spices from your pantry.
Ring in the season by making these amazing pumpkin bars from Oh My Goodness Chocolate Desserts. The bars are topped with a sweetened cream cheese mixture—delish!
When you've had your fair share (and then some) of homemade banana bread, and you want to switch things up, check out Kristine's Kitchen for her awesome pumpkin bread recipe! The best part? It's sneakily healthy!
You can’t beat a bowl of old-fashioned oats to fill hungry tummies on a crisp fall morning. This recipe from Damn Delicious will remind you how quick and easy oatmeal can be. Set toppings out the night before on the kitchen countertop and watch the breakfast magic begin as your little ones fill up on healthy fiber with a pumpkin kick.
If you’ve got any leftover canned pumpkin on your hands, this smoothie recipe from Dishing Delish is the perfect way to use it. It’s the next best thing to having a slice of pumpkin pie for breakfast.
Haven't tried the pumpkin and chocolate combo craze yet? Go! Get in the kitchen ... now! We promise you'll be stuck on these Pumpkin Nutella Cookie Bars from Crazy for Crust this fall. Serve 'em warm and ooey-gooey with a tall glass of milk.
We can’t resist a blondie, and this pumpkin version from Friday Is Cake Night is sure to be an instant hit with your crew. The one-bowl recipe is a breeze to make, and you can round up the kids to do the mixing.
This fun twist on the classic from Anya’s Eats is surprisingly easy to make. And with a mix of almond butter, pumpkin, and spices, it’s perfect for fall.
Everyone deserves dessert for breakfast sometimes! The yummy combo of pumpkin, cinnamon, and icing will transform Saturday morning into a celebration. Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Pancakes from Number 2 Pencil with warm maple syrup or drizzled cream cheese glaze. Yum!
For an after-school snack that satisfies a sweet tooth without being unhealthy, you’ve got to try this pumpkin pie pudding from My Life Cookbook. It comes together in the blender in less than 10 minutes and tastes great topped with coconut cream or whipped cream.
Beef Bolognese is usually a crowd-pleasure, and the addition of fall’s favorite squash gives it something special. Get the recipe from Serving Dumplings.
If you’re familiar with Afghan food (and if you’re not, we recommend trying it ASAP), then you’re probably a fan of Bolani, a flatbread stuffed with yummy combinations usually served as an appetizer. This version comes with a savory pumpkin spread on the inside, and it’s recommended you serve it with a dipping yogurt. Get the recipe from Herat Kitchen, and be on the lookout for shortcuts!
Sunday dinner, here we come! This pasta bake from Pinch of Yum is filled with caramelized onions, plenty of pumpkin, and a healthy sprinkling of cheese. It’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds.
This awesome pasta dish from Cooktoria is sure to be an instant hit with your crew, thanks to its delicious sauce made with pumpkin, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. If your kids aren’t into mushrooms, you can sub in Italian sausage.
We’ve discovered the ultimate in comfort food, thanks to Life Made Sweeter. This pumpkin macaroni and cheese is perfect for chilly fall nights, and it comes together in less than 30 minutes.
Let the kids help make this tasty Caribbean-inspired soup from Stir It Up by Ramin Ganeshram. It’s easy to throw together using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
After you carve your pumpkins, don’t throw out the seeds! It’s so easy to make roasted pumpkin seeds, and they’re sure to be a family favorite, whether they’re sprinkled on a salad or packed in lunches.
This award-winning chili from Tatertots & Jello has a hint of pumpkin sweetness that sings in your mouth. Just brown the meat and onions, dump the ingredients in the slow cooker, and voila! Dinner is done! Try milder spices to please budding taste buds, or make this one when hosting. Football and chili anyone?
Start with a package of frozen ravioli. Stir together a few simple ingredients to make a decadent sauce. The smooth, rich flavors of this ravioli with pumpkin alfredo from Taste and Tell come together so quickly that you'll wish you'd invited company over for dinner.
Breakfast: the most necessary and perhaps the most stressful meal of the day for parents. Between getting ready for the day and getting out the door on time, breaking the fast can sometimes take a back seat. Luckily, Trader Joe’s not only makes this morning meal a breeze, but they also offer some of the tastiest products. Keep reading to see some of Trader Joe’s best breakfast items we’re currently craving.
We can’t all walk the streets of Paris with a freshly made croissant in our hands. That’s where Trader Joe’s chocolate croissants come into play. Just pop these frozen pastries onto a cookie sheet to rise overnight, then bake for 20-25 minutes. You will be utterly shocked at how flaky and delicious these store-bought frozen croissants actually are.
Egg Bites
Trader Joe’s
Starbucks may have put Egg Bites on the map, but Trader Joe’s is keeping this on-the-go breakfast in regular reach. Made with egg whites, this gluten-free morning meal packs protein and pairs well with salsa or even between an English muffin for an easy breakfast sandwich.
Egg Omelets
Tinybeans
Flying hot off Trader Joe’s shelves is one of the grocer’s newest products: egg omelets. The fully-cooked dish is made with cheddar cheese and comes four to a pack. It’s perfect for busy mornings or if you’re trying to pack in some protein before a workout.
Chances are, your kids enjoy chocolate now and then. While we admit this hot cocoa-inspired cream cheese seems a bit on the decadent side, no one can argue how a little smear of this spread will make any bagel better.
Brioche French Toast
There’s no need to pull out the eggs and cinnamon to get this French toast on the table. Trader Joe’s has whipped up a frozen version that can be cooked either in the microwave or the oven. Top with your choice of berries and you have a fancy breakfast with almost no effort.
When it comes to pancake bread, be prepared to slice off a piece and then walk away. If you don’t, you will quickly find yourself eating an entire loaf of this maple-syrup-flavored baked goodie. This tasty treat is a great grab-and-go option, and we’ve even heard you can transform it into French toast.
Açaí Bowl
Tinybeans
An entire, healthy meal awaits with Trader Joe’s organic Açaí bowls. Found in the freezer aisle, they come fully stocked with strawberries, blueberries, bananas, granola, and dried coconut chips. These are great for busy parents trying to eat healthy and kids who aren’t afraid of indulging in a ton of fruit.
Eggwich Breadless Breakfast
Tinybeans
Gluten and bread-free, these eggwich sandwiches really pack in the protein. Each boxes comes with two eggwiches and are made with American cheese and turkey sausage. They are perfect for busy mornings and can be eaten in the car on the way to school or work.
Egg Fritatta
Tinybeans
Baking a full-size frittata takes time—and a cast iron skillet. If you’re in the mood for quicker fare, grab a box of frozen frittatas next time you’re at Trader Joe’s. They’re made with cauliflower and Swiss cheese, and heat up in a jiffy, making them perfect for busy mornings.
Overnight Oats
Trader Joe’s
Everyone knows the benefits of oatmeal, but it can be hard to get your act together and cook up a batch in the early morning. That’s why Trader Joe’s almond butter chia and vanilla overnight oats are a hit. Each pack is $1.99 and provides an ample portion that you can customize with your own toppings. The carton makes them easy to just grab a spoon and eat on the run.
Everything you need to know to start your eco-friendly lifestyle here in Los Angeles
This guide is a great starting point for anyone looking to live greener in LA. From zero-waste refill stations nearby to plant-forward dining, here are all the spots to shop and when you want to be eco-conscience in Los Angeles.
What Is a Zero-Waste Refill Station?
A zero-waste refill station is a place (sometimes you can find them a pop-up or at a farmer’s market) where you can buy household goods, like laundry detergent, soap, shampoo, cleaners and various household goods, as well as baby, pet and personal goods—almost anything!—and use your own packaging. Typically refills are sold by volume—your jar or container is weighed before getting filled (tare), then weighed again after it’s been filled up—the weight of the container is deducted from the total weight of the refill.
How to Shop at a Zero-Waste Refill Station
It may sound intimidating but shopping at a zero-waste refill station is easy. Simply bring whatever container you want to store your product, choose your product and get it filled up! The best part? If you don’t have a container, you can purchase a jar or container at the shop—and now you have a container that you can reuse once it’s empty. While living a 100% eco-friendly life would be amazing, this is a way to take step in the right eco-friendly direction.
Sustain LA: Sustain LA is a certified, woman-owned small business, and was the first zero waste refill station in LA dedicated to disrupting the concept of convenience. At this store, you can refill or find in bulk for your daily necessities—soaps, shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, plus ingredients to DIY. Bring your own refillable containers, or check out theirs when you’re there.
Otherwild Goods & Services: Otherwild Goods offers an array of refillable bulk home cleaning and personal care products plus lo-and-no-waste reuseables under the moniker Otherwild General. This queer-identified woman-owned store, design studio and event space is dedicated to producing goods made within an ethically-sourced supply chain.
Recontained: This shop’s mission is to create an easy alternative to the single-use plastic that is so dramatically overflowing in landfills, oceans and waterways. By offering everyday consumables in a fun and easy refill format, everyone can make better choices. They’ve partnered with USA-based labs to ensure tha their products are healthy, safe, cruelty free, and almost all (except for one—due to the use of beeswax) are fully vegan.
prostainable: Established in 2019, this female-owned and operated, “low waste store for your zero waste intentions,” began with a mission to divert 1 million single use bottles from the waste streams by allowing customers to bring in their own containers to refill household cleaners and self care products. Now with two locations, they are successfully exceeding what they set out to achieve.
The Well: This shop, located in Topanga, finds the most effective, low-waste, non-toxic, locally made, biodegradable and plant based products available. Everything from low waste tools and accessories plus an ever-changing selection of second-hand goods can be found here.
The Refill Shoppe: Not only can you shop in person, you can also get over 50 different (often custom-scentable) bath, body, home and cleaning products delivered right to your door with their innovative, zero-waste, refill pouches.
BYO Long Beach: BYO Long Beach started at the beginning of 2017 with the goal to inspire locals to reduce their trash consumption and focus on reusable alternatives. “Perfection is not the goal, but progress—we can’t all do everything, but everyone can do something.” Refill products are available either by the ounce or millimeter (essential oils) and can be filled in your own container, a new container, a free donated container, or a free paper bag. Just tare, fill up, and weigh!
Café Gratitude: Plant-based pioneer Café Gratitude has been delivering quality, farm-to-table meals to Angelenos since 2004. And while there's nothing better than dining in and ordering their "I am adorable" almond butter banana wrap for the kids, and the "I am nourished" bowl for yourself (a breakfast wrap that will have you coming back day-after-day), you can also get your vegan fix at home with their deliverable meals. Choose from 3-day or 6-day meals plans; free delivery is available within select areas of Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County.
Gracias Madre: This no-brainer dining spot has won over vegans and non-vegans alike all over Los Angeles (and now has an outpost in Newport Beach for those south of the LA border). Our favorite weekend brunch go-tos? Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos with their signature margarita of course. And for the kids? The cinnamon oat pancakes or the french toast (of course).
Flower Burger: Unwilling to give up those those burger cravings but want to try swapping a meal or two every so often? Flower Burger serves up not only plant-based burgers that are satisfying to eat, the Italian-based brand also serves up Instagram-worthy burgers (picture burgers that have been rainbow-ized) utilizing 100% natural and vegan ingredients.
Monty’s Good Burger: Now with 5 locations, this diner-esque plant-based burger joint hits all the nostalgic feels for carnivores who care about the environment and want a mouthwatering burger. Their newest location, across from the Culver Steps, serves up their classics (don't forget to get the shake!) as well as their new-to-the-menu, Charlie's Chicken Sandwich.
Sage Plant-Based Bistro: Another favorite vegan spot to go, their extensive kid's menu will win over the under 12 set in no time—what's not to love about pancakes, burritos, french toast and grilled cheese sandwiches? For the parents, nothing beats their cauliflower wings or their tacos—you'll never miss an animal-based product here. And don't forget to order their vegan ice-cream—it's worth saving room for.
Go beyond chips and dip and try these top Trader Joe’s snacks at your next party
Whether you need new options for kid lunches or you want something fun to offer at your next moms’ night soirée, Trader Joe’s has loads of fun snackable options that go way beyond chips and guac. The cult-status market has stocked its shelves with several new snack options in the past month, and we rounded out our picks with a few tried-and-true classics.
ABC Bars
Kate Loweth
These almond butter cocoa bars have just the right amount of sweetness to go along with the 4g of protein that you'll find in each bar.
Soft & Juicy Mandarins
Kate Loweth
Keep a bag or two of these little sweeties in your minivan for when you need a sweet treat but want to avoid the candy.
Cheddar Cheese Rockets
Kate Loweth
We will literally fight anyone who doesn't think these cheese crackers are far superior to Goldfish. They just are.
Just a Handful of Pitted Salted Manzanilla Olives
Love olives but don't want to commit to a whole jar? These beauties come in a pocket-sized pack and we love to bring them on picnics when you need to satisfy those salt cravings.
Organic Mini Cheese Sandwich Crackers
Kate Loweth
You may claim that these are for the kids, but we know that parents hide them behind the Raisin Bran to keep them for themselves. Who can blame them? These crackers are tiny, salty, and full of simple ingredients.
Almond Butter Pretzels
Kate Loweth
You may have tried the peanut butter varieties of this salty snack, but we're here to say that the almond butter version is far superior.
Trader Joe's Contemplates Inner Peas
Kate Loweth
Not only is this product a clever pun but it is a pretty tasty snack. Known in the toddler circle as "crunchy peas," these are fun for dipping in a personal-sized hummus.
PB&J Bars
Kate Loweth
Bring these along for a mid-hike pick me up or keep them on hand as a sandwich alternative when you are really desperate at the end of the week.
White, purple, yellow & orange carrots are cut, peeled, and dehydrated to bring us this crisp snack that's topped with sea salt. The gluten-free, two ingredients snack is packed with fiber and protein and tastes great with TJ's Spinach & Kale Greek Yogurt Dip.
Kosher and gluten-free, these Crunchy Nutty Rice Bites are a tasty snack that's easy on the waistline. Crisped brown and white rice are mixed with quinoa, dried cranberries, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and cashews that are flavored with cane sugar and sea salt and enjoyed by the handful.
Snack on something sweet and spicy with Trader Joe's Child Spiced Dried Mango. The tropic fruit is carefully dried so that they don’t lose too much moisture and then seasoned with a blend of paprika, cayenne, sugar, and salt.
Coming in five different flavors, Trader Joe's Fruit Sauce Crushers are great for little snackers. Each one is made with real fruit and vegetable purees, that are void of synthetically derived colors, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Perfect for lunches and on the go!
The Just a Handful Omega Trek Mix is the perfect grab-and-go snack. Each bag comes with 10 individual-size servings that include almonds, walnuts, pepitas, pecans, pistachios, and dried cranberries, which are Omega-fortified with oil extracted from their own seeds.
For this granola option, Trader Joe’s decided to think outside the cereal box. Instead of relying on oats, which are a granola staple, this version is heavy on sunflower, sesame, flax, chia, and hemp seeds as well as coconut, dried cranberries, and raisins. In addition to being organic, it’s also grain and gluten-free, and vegan. Grab these clusters by the handful, or top yogurt or oatmeal for energy that will get you to lunch. TJ’s also recommends it in trail mix or even on a salad!
Speaking of yogurt, this Greek yogurt flavor is sure to satisfy and refresh our palettes heading into summer. If you’re a fan of lemon and lime, grapefruit, and blood orange, this is the protein-packed yogurt for you.
Anyone who fondly remembers Trader Joe’s adventurous Pumpkin Soup Crackers will be pleased to know they’re at it again with these gluten-free soup crackers, made of brown rice, rolled oats, and seasoned like your favorite tomato soup. And just as a bowl of creamy tomato soup goes perfectly with grilled cheese, these crackers and sliced cheddar may well have been made for each other.
When hunger strikes between meals, we usually crave something sweet and easy—which doesn’t always lead to the healthiest choices (a whole bag of chocolate bark, anyone?). Trader Joe’s new Coconut Sesame Seed Clusters deliver sweetness and lasting energy in a convenient snack bag you can throw in your bag or keep in the car—and this yummy concoction won’t melt as the days warm up!
If the kids (or you) can’t get enough French fries, try out this simple snack version. Comprised only of U.S. Russet potatoes, canola oil, and salt, you know what you’re getting (rather than the additives often on regular fries these days, including gluten.). The package alone is too adorable not to try.
Crispy Crunchy Okra
Gabby Cullen
Many parents may already know that Trader Joe’s Crispy Crunchy Broccoli Florets are an awesome way to get greens into the kids, but the store is now serving up an okra version. Eat them plain or substitute them for crackers with your favorite dip.
Organic Chocolate Chip Chewy Granola Bars
Jennifer Massoni Pardini
Sometimes, everyone just needs some chocolate. Getting it with only eight grams of sugar is a good deal, one for which you can thank these organic and kid-approved granola bars.
If you’ve been known to grab one of the kid’s fruit leathers stashed in your bag, these are truly 100% fruit, making them healthy and delicious for all. Flavor options include fruit juices or purees from apples, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and wild berries. And as popular as they’ve become over the last decade they’ve been making them, Trader Joe’s hasn’t raised their price once.
Freeze-dried Fruit
Jennifer Massoni Pardini
If you have a kid who prefers fruit crunchy, you likely already know that Trader Joe’s offers an amazing assortment of freeze-dried options—strawberries, blueberries, bananas, Fuji apples, and raspberries are usually in stock. While the water may be gone, all that fruity nutrition remains. And they’re always in season!
