Trader Joe's: My Top Buys

Author:

Natalie Mason

April 11, 2012

I have to admit that when Trader Joe's first opened here in Charleston, I wasn't sure what all the hype was all about. A new grocery store? What could be so awesome about a grocery store? Well primarily their prices are amazing. I can grocery shop here for super cheap and the store is filled with all sorts of fun new food items to try. I live about 20 minutes away from the Mt Pleasant store that opened here, yet I find myself making the trek pretty much every other week to stock up. I now see what all the hype was about. I thought I would share with you my staples that I buy every time I shop here. These are tried and true favorites that I love. So, now you dish and tell me what your favorite things to buy at Traders Joe's!

WILD MUSHROOM AND BLACK TRUFFLE FLATBREAD
This is so good. I am a sucker for anything with truffles in it and you can really taste the truffles in the pizza. Sidenote: I do always add extra cheese to ours before I bake it.

SAVORY THIN MINI EDAMAME CRACKERS
These crackers are my favorite snack. They are tiny, (which makes me think I can eat alot of them), crispy, and salty. Perfect to dip in hummus or enjoy with cheese. I buy two bags every time I go because we eat so many of them!

ARCANCINI BITES
These little rice balls are addictive. Heat them up and dip them in tomato sauce and you have the perfect appetizer or meal served with a salad. Even my little man gobbles these up.

PICTON BAY SAUVIGNON BLANC
This wine sells for $7.99 and it is delicious. I am picky about Sauvignon Blancs—I don't like it when they are too sweet. This one is not. It is light, crisp, and refreshing. I always pick up a bottle or two to have on hand.

RISING SUN FARMS CHEESE TORTAS
For $5.50 a piece, these tarts make the perfect quick appetizer to put out when entertaining. They are both are delish, but the Sundried Tomato and Pesto one is my favorite. It looks beautiful sitting out and tastes just as good.

ROSEMARY RAISIN CRACKERS
I always serve these with the Sundried Tomato/Pesto Cheese Torta. Seems like a weird combination but I promise the flavors work great together. These crackers are tasty alone or paired with plain cheese too.

ORCHIDS
The orchids at Trader Joe's are gorgeous and only $12.99. A real steal. I buy a fresh one for my house every few months. They also make great hostess and birthday gifts for friends. This is my orchid I bought there a few weeks ago on my foyer table, beautiful right?