So many modern women have their schedules so jam-packed with everything from work gigs to fitness routines that they're willing to do pretty much anything to save time when they can. That's where everyone's favorite affordable grocery chain tends to come in handy. Trader Joe's seems to have a knack for making its shoppers lives a little easier, with tons of ready-to-serve options, plus shelves filled with items that can be used for dishes that require minimal prep and cook time. And if you could personally use a bit more quality down time, there are a ton of quick Trader Joe's meals you can whip up in just minutes.
Besides the fact that TJ's offers you everything from surprisingly great beauty products to healthy staples for your pantry, all for prices that fit into even the tightest budgets, its truly life-saving offering comes in the form of easy-to-throw-together meals. Between the tried-and-true freezer essentials and all the new products popping up daily, it's not difficult to create a dish that can be made from start to finish in less time than it takes to deep condition your hair (and here's where multitasking really comes in handy!). Between TJ's Instagram account and its coveted Fearless Flyer that's filled with recipes and product announcements, tonight's five-minute dinner is at your fingertips. And to make things even simpler, ahead are six totally satisfying, quickie dishes to try ASAP.
Indian Feast
No need for takeout with TJ's ready-to-serve Tikka Vegetables and Yellow Tadka Dal. Just heat in your microwave of on the stovetop for a few minutes and serve with with naan bread and jasmine rice — both of which are regularly stocked in the grocer's freezer section.
Beef Cabbage Rolls In Tomato Sauce
The antidote for chilly evenings, these beef cabbage rolls (found in the frozen goods section) just need to be warmed up for about 10 minutes, then topped with tomato sauce and sour cream for a rich, satisfying dinner that no one will believe you just threw together.
Corn Chip Dipper Chili Pie
In about 10 minutes, and with only a few Trader Joe's-sourced ingredients, you can create this totally indulgent Tex-Mex meal. All you need is a bag of Organic Corn Chip Dippers, topped with TJ’s Turkey Chili, Three Cheese Mexican Blend, and Hot & Sweet Jalapeños. Serve in the chips' original bag folded over, and voilà.
Pepperoni Slab Pizza
Why order delivery when you can make a fresh pizza with a few TJ's products in about 10 minutes? All you've got to do is pick up ready-made TJ's Pizza Crust, drizzle with olive oil, then top with pizza sauce, a healthy dose of organic shredded mozzarella cheese and sliced pepperoni. Finish with a sprinkle of oregano and pop in the oven until the cheese is melty and the crust is golden brown.
Meatless Meatball BBQ Subs
For a meatless meatball sub that's as satisfying as the real deal, just grab a bag of frozen Meatless Meatballs and simmer in TJ's Organic Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce. Then add to toasted hot dog buns and top with sliced provolone and diced red onion. The whole dish will take you less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
Sweet & Smoky Seared Tilapia
Proof that healthy dishes can be made as quickly and easily as the aforementioned indulgent ones, this tangy, spicy fish dish can be pulled together in just about 10 minutes. Just defrost some frozen tilapia filets, then sear them in ghee, and serve with the organic jasmine rice you can grab from the freezer section, and a bit of Smoky Peach Salsa with lemon slices and fresh cilantro to garnish.