Buzz
Image Courtesy: Trader Joe'sOne of the main reasons for Trader Joe's popularity is its treasure trove of convenient pre-packaged foods. If you’re in a rush but need something to eat, you’ll find plenty of options at this chain, known for its quick and easy meal choices. Lunchtime can be a challenge, especially when you're away from home or need to make the most of a short break. This is when you should take advantage of the prepared meals Trader Joe’s offers. The freezer section has all kinds of ready-to-go options for every meal, but it’s the refrigerated section where lunchtime options really shine. From ready-to-eat salads and kits to sandwiches and wraps, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll find fresh soups to easily reheat. The pantry section is packed with even more options, including shelf-stable noodles, chilis, and quick-to-cook proteins. For a meal that’s quicker than cooking from scratch but more affordable than takeout, Trader Joe’s is the answer.
Lemony Arugula Basil Salad Kit
Trader Joe's refrigerated produce section is packed with pre-packaged salad kits, and we’re all for it. This particular one comes with thin carrot ribbons, chopped almonds, and Parmesan cheese on a bed of fresh arugula. It offers a satisfying variety of textures, essential for any great salad, and a zesty kick from the lemon-basil dressing. Plus, if you decide to eat the entire bag for lunch, you'll hit a good portion of your fiber and protein intake—pretty impressive for a salad mostly made up of leafy greens and veggies.
Organic Hearty Minestrone Soup
Soup and salad are classic lunchtime favorites, and they’re even better when you don’t have to make them yourself. Trader Joe’s offers this veggie-packed minestrone soup in their refrigerated section, and it’s a must-try. Full of beans and vegetables, it’s hearty and satisfying, with orzo pasta made from rice and quinoa to complete the dish.
Squiggly Knife Cut Style Noodles
While some of Trader Joe's prepared lunch items may be a bit pricey per serving, these uniquely shaped noodles are an exception. A four-pack costs less than five bucks, and each pack includes both the noodles and the sauce. They’re delicious on their own, or you can get creative with toppings like chicken, edamame, and stir-fry veggies. You’ll need to prepare them on a stovetop or ahead of time, but they make for a budget-friendly, tasty lunch option.
Black Bean and Monterey Jack Cheese Burrito
This simple yet satisfying bean and cheese burrito proves that lunch doesn’t need to be complicated to be both filling and flavorful. As the name suggests, it’s packed with seasoned black beans and Monterey Jack cheese, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. With 10 grams of fiber and 28 grams of protein per burrito, it’s sure to keep you full for hours.
Madras Lentils
Switching out your typical chicken or turkey for legumes is a great way to boost your intake of plant-based protein and fiber. While cooking beans and lentils from scratch can be time-consuming, Trader Joe’s offers convenient pre-cooked versions. The Madras Lentils are a fan favorite, bursting with flavor and ready to microwave. Heat them up for just a minute, and top them on a bowl of warm white rice for an easy and satisfying lunch.
Classic Greek Salad
While this pre-made salad may not transport you to the Greek islands, it gets pretty close with its fresh, vibrant ingredients. It has all the Greek salad essentials—kalamata olives, feta cheese, crisp vegetables, and a zesty red wine vinaigrette. This is a salad that could easily become a daily favorite without losing its appeal.
Turkey Burgers
If you're working from home, maximize your lunch break by creating an impressive burger spread. Trader Joe’s offers a wide variety of frozen burger options, giving you plenty of choices while keeping things convenient. The turkey burgers are a great way to enjoy some lean protein, nestled between soft Brioche buns and piled with your favorite toppings.
Turkey Apple Cheddar Sandwich
Sandwiches have likely been a lunch staple since your childhood, so why stop now? They’re quick and simple to prepare, but if you’re short on time, Trader Joe’s offers several pre-made options. The turkey, apple, and cheddar sandwich is a popular choice because it’s a no-hassle meal that’s more flavorful and satisfying than something you might whip up yourself.
Southwestern Chopped Salad Kit
Some salad kits don’t provide enough toppings, but this one is packed with flavor. It’s loaded with cotija cheese, roasted pepitas, crunchy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a spicy avocado dressing that’s so good you could drink it. It’s delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with additional protein and texture by adding black beans, marinated asada, or grilled chicken strips.
Organic Lentil Vegetable Soup
A lunch in a can is the next best thing to a grab-and-go meal. Trader Joe’s offers a range of soups and chilis in its pantry aisle, including some vegan-friendly options like this lentil soup. With a simple ingredient list of legumes, veggies, and spices, it’s a great source of protein, fiber, and iron. If you have a stove or microwave available at lunchtime, this soup will keep you warm and full.
Grilled Chicken Strips
Quick, convenient, and flavorful, these grilled chicken strips are perfect for elevating any simple lunch. Toss them into your favorite salad or use them with pre-made salad kits from Trader Joe’s. They’re a great protein option to always have on hand, but you can also switch things up by adding them to burritos, bowls, sandwiches, or noodle dishes.
Buffalo Style Chicken Wrap
Wraps have long been a go-to for lunch: they’re quick, tasty, and generally healthier. This Buffalo-style wrap is a must-try for spice lovers. It’s simple, with just a few ingredients like a tangy blue cheese dressing, but don’t underestimate it—the flavor is bold and satisfying.
Peanut Udon Noodle Salad
Salads and noodle dishes are both fantastic options for a quick and easy lunch, and this one combines the best of both worlds. If a regular salad doesn’t do it for you, try a noodle-based salad instead. This cold salad features noodles with a rich peanut-ginger dressing that’s both savory and satisfying.
Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas
If you prefer a hot lunch, quesadillas are always a great choice. These vegetarian-friendly Chipotle quesadillas from Trader Joe’s are microwaveable and packed with cheesy goodness. Each box contains two quesadillas, making them perfect for splitting between two lunches. Pair them with some guacamole and sour cream for dipping, or enjoy them as is—you’ll be glad you gave them a try.
Organic Vegetarian Chili
Who says vegetarians don’t get enough protein? One can of this hearty chili delivers an impressive 26 grams of protein, along with fiber, iron, potassium, and calcium. It’s a filling, flavorful option that’s sure to satisfy. If you’ve given up meat but miss the taste and texture, the chunks of pea protein in this chili will remind you of the chili dogs you used to love. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare for a satisfying afternoon meal.
