The Best Holiday Foods at Trader Joe's, According to Dietitians
Though seasonal foods have been on sale at supermarkets across the country for weeks, last-minute trips for winter favorites are inevitable. Trader Joe's is already a beloved destination for everyday groceries, so it goes without saying that its holiday foods are popular. However, not all of its offerings are created equally in terms of nutrition. Which ones, exactly, are approved by dietitians?
Here's what Eat This, Not That! Medical Expert Board members Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, of Real Nutrition, and Lisa Young, PhD, RDN, the author of Finally Full, Finally Slim and a nutritionist in private practice, recommend shoppers add to their carts during those last-minute holiday trips to Trader Joe's.
Related: 10 Items Trader Joe's Discontinued This Year
Wintry Blend Ground Coffee
Both Shapiro and Young recommend this coffee option as one to enjoy during the holidays, thanks to the addition of spices like cinnamon and cloves. Combine their benefits with those of a cup of joe, and you're sure to have a good time full of cheer.
"In addition to its delectably spicy flavor profile, it has a pleasant, welcoming aroma that fills the whole house with a hearty, homey fragrance as it percolates," TJ's says of the coffee.
Truffle Pecorino Cheese
The seasonal Truffle Pecorino Cheese is made with sheep's milk. Cheese can sometimes be categorized as unhealthy, but Shapiro says to enjoy this option.
It has "minimal ingredients, [is] high in protein, moderate in fat, low in calories, [its] sodium is not too high," she says, adding that it makes a "flavorful addition to a meal."
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Truffle Hot Sauce
Cheese isn't the only grocery item at Trader Joe's that puts the iconic flavor of truffles to use during the most wonderful time of the year.
Trader Joe's Truffle Hot Sauce is a "great way to add flavor to dishes and snacks without adding a ton of calories," Shapiro says.
She also touts the "good ingredient list," plus the fact that it's "low in fat, calories, sodium, and sugar." But grab a bottle quick—because this product is only around for the season.
White Truffle Popcorn
Holiday movies require a snack fit for the season. "As far as snacks go, popcorn is the way to go, as it contains fiber and even some protein," Young says. (Shapiro agrees.)
"The delightfully bold umami flavor of truffles clings to each kernel and creates a one-of-a-kind sensation when you pop them in your mouth," Trader Joe's says of the snack. "It's an elevated profile that could comfortably ride alongside a classy cheese plate at your holiday soirée."
Candy Cane Joe Joe's Dark Chocolate Bar
"Tis the season for chocolate and candy canes in this dark chocolate bar," Young says of this festive treat. It's made with 60% cacao, which is known to be full of antioxidants (and for its bitter taste). Though there are 11 grams of sugar involved here, Trader Joe's Dark Chocolate Candy Cane Bar is definitely a good stocking-stuffer.
O'Nog Non-Dairy Oat Beverage
Those who don't drink dairy won't be excluded from enjoying a glass of eggnog this year. Trader Joe's Oat O'Nog combines the same creaminess and flavorful punch as regular eggnog, but it's made without any dairy ingredients. Young approves.
For more on what's happening in the holiday section of your favorite grocery store, check out:
