We all have our favorite go-to grocery store. I actually have several, depending on what I need. Right now, I’m on a big Trader Joe’s kick. It has a little bit of everything I need, without the added risk of harmful chemicals in my food. As an added bonus, their staff is always friendly and the price signs are amusing. It’s an all-around pleasant place to shop! I’m all about trying new things, but when it comes to a store like this, there are so many options that it’s overwhelming at times to know what to get at Trader Joe’s. Lucky for you, I’ve spent a lot of time trying various things from this store and put together a list of 12 Trader Joe’s favorites!

1. Flowers

Okay, so flowers aren’t food, but they still deserve the first spot on this list. Have you seen their flower selection? It’s AMAZING and CHEAP. Their flowers are always beautiful and priced just right! During my daughter’s first year of life, I took a picture of her every month next to the coordinating number of flowers. I almost always got them from Trader Joe’s and after I used them for pictures, I had a beautiful bouquet to last a couple weeks!

2. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This one is found in the frozen section with other appetizers. I almost don’t want to share it, because it’s #1 on the list of my Trader Joe’s favorites, but I stocked up this morning so there should be plenty to go around. This dip is ready to eat after just five minutes in the microwave and it is GOOD. I’ve eaten a whole serving by myself on multiple occasions, so you should probably buy two… just in case.

3. Fried Rice

The fried rice from the frozen section comes in three varieties: Japanese Style, Chicken, and Vegetable. I have had both the vegetable and chicken and they’re both great! The Japanese Style and Chicken are both $2.99 and the Vegetable is $2.29. Each bag makes about 2-2.5 servings and takes five minutes or so to prepare in a skillet. One bag is enough for me, my fiancé, and our toddler to eat for dinner! (That’s dinner for $3 — major mom win!)

4. Bananas

No, their bananas aren’t different. But they are 19 cents each. That’s always a good deal in my book. There are also organic bananas available that cost only slightly more.

5. Gluten-Free or Multi-Grain Toaster Waffles

Have a gluten allergy to accommodate? Or are you on a diet that calls for whole grains? Either way, you don’t have to cut waffles out of your meal plan!

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6. Chocolate Coconut Almonds

I’ve been buying these for years. They’re so good and the perfect sweet snack that won’t overload you with sugar.

7. Salsa Verde

Okay, I LOVE this salsa! Not only is it good with chips, it’s amazing if you throw it in the crockpot with some chicken! You don’t need to add anything to it besides a little water and 6 hours later you are ready for sandwiches, tacos, or just chicken and rice. I can’t say enough good things about this salsa. It’s life changing.

8. Alcohol

Not only does Trader Joe’s carry a decent variety of well priced wine and beer, they also have a “Build Your Own 6-pack” section!

9. Cheddar Bacon Ranch Dip

A few years ago, I was in charge of bringing dips to a Christmas party. Rather than make them myself (who has time for that?) I stopped at Trader Joe’s and grabbed various dips and chips. I’ve been buying this one ever since. It’s great with ridged or wavy potato chips and has the perfect hints of cheddar, bacon, and ranch.

10. Cookie Butter

I don’t know if I could accurately describe this one to you, but I will say, it DOES taste like a cookie, with the consistency and texture of peanut butter. It’s really something you need to try for yourself. It also comes in ice cream form. Need I say more?

11. Organic Vegetable Radiatore Pasta

I’m always a big fan of vegetable servings that don’t taste like vegetables. This pasta is a great example! They are shaped like little radiators, hence the name, and the ingredients only include vegetables.

12. Chocolate Non-Dairy Dessert

Okay, so this one is basically chocolate ice cream. But it is dairy-, gluten-, and soy-free, which makes it a very allergy-friendly dessert!

What are your Trader Joe’s favorites?