5 Things Nutritionists Load Up on at Trader Joe's

Perri Ormont Blumberg
Updated

While the aisles of Trader Joe's beckon with plenty of decadent treats, the popular grocery store chain is also a jackpot for healthy eating finds. Nutritionist Amy Gorin, MS, RDN, recently tapped several dietitian pals to round up 19 Foods Nutritionists Always Buy at Trader Joe's for Reader's Digest. Read on for a five of our favorites from the bunch and plan a trip to TJ's pronto.

WATCH: The Sweet Reason Trader Joe's Bananas Are 19 Cents

1. Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto

This nutrient-dense sauce can be slathered on toast or added to pasta or spiralized veggie noodles for a tasty side dish. Got carrots or celery sticks? Dunk away!

2. Frozen Raspberries

We love storing an extra bag or two in our freezer to toss into smoothies or defrost and add to a bowl of oatmeal. Fan of frozen fruit? Worth noting:"It's best to read labels carefully to be sure you're not buying items that have added sugar," says Bonnie Taub-Dix, RDN, author of Read it Before You Eat It in the article.

3. Organic Sprouted Tricolor Quinoa

This protein-packed seed is a cinch to prepare and works wonderfully as a base for salads, slipped into soups, or doctored up with some seasonings for a simple side.

4. Organic Riced Cauliflower

Hop aboard the cauliflower "rice" train with this convenient swap for pasta or rice. Samantha Cassetty, MS, RD, is a fan of adding this shredded cruciferous veggie into tacos.

5. Trader Joe's Hi-Protein Veggie Burgers

Hi, Hi-Protein. Made with pea protein, these plant-based burgers pack 26 grams of filling protein per patty. Look for them in the frozen food aisle.

Well, folks, we feel healthy just reading this list. P.S. If you want to slip some of these Southern delights from Trader Joe's in your cart, we won't tell.

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