8 Pantry Staples from Trader Joe's I Always Keep on Hand (They Elevate Any Dish)

Image Courtesy of: Trader Joe's

It’s no secret that a quick and affordable meal often starts with what you already have in your pantry. We’ve all had those weeks when a trip to the grocery store just isn’t in the cards, or when you forget to thaw something from the freezer beforehand. But with just a handful of pantry items, you can whip up a wholesome and tasty meal that saves both time and money. Trader Joe's is the go-to store for pantry essentials, not just because the prices are great, but because the variety is always exciting. From canned fish to bold condiments, here are some of the best pantry finds from Trader Joe's you can grab.

Nutritional Yeast - A Pantry Must-Have

Nutritional yeast is a pantry staple that adds a rich umami flavor to almost any meal. Whether you sprinkle it on popcorn for a cheesy, savory twist or stir it into a homemade broth for added richness, Trader Joe's Nutritional Yeast is a must-have condiment for your kitchen.

Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil - A Pantry Favorite

Tinned fish has made a strong comeback, and sardines are leading the charge. These little powerhouses are not only a healthy and affordable protein source, but they’re also super easy to prepare. We love Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil because they cost less than $2 per tin. A perfect way to enjoy them is by spreading them on a piece of toast with butter and fresh herbs.

Spicy Honey Sauce - A Game Changer

If you haven’t yet tried TJ's Spicy Honey Sauce, you’ll want to grab a bottle or two as soon as possible. The combination of sweet honey and a touch of chili extract might sound unusual, but it’s the secret ingredient that takes the simplest dishes to the next level. Drizzle it generously over pizza, garlic bread, or crispy chicken cutlets. You can also use it to create a flavorful salad dressing, melt it into butter, or add it to roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts.

Fire Roasted Red Peppers - A Pantry Essential

This is your reminder to always stock up on a variety of canned or jarred veggies for those days when your fridge is looking bare. A jar of roasted red peppers can be a real lifesaver. Add them to salads, toss them into pasta, or blend them to create a delicious roasted red pepper hummus or spread.

Italian-Style Wedding Soup - A Comforting Classic

Few things are as satisfying and comforting as a hot bowl of soup, and TJ's Italian-Style Wedding Soup has all the essentials: tender beef meatballs, a variety of vegetables, and little pasta pearls known as acini di pepe. Keep a jar on hand for a quick, easy, and delicious meal.

Organic Garbanzo Beans - A Versatile Pantry Staple

Beans are always a great pantry item to have on hand, but garbanzo beans, or “chickpeas,” are especially versatile. You can roast them, blend them, or simply rinse and eat them as is. Chickpeas are an easy and delicious way to add protein to almost any meal.

Rolled Oats - A Breakfast and Baking Essential

Looking for the key to a chewy cookie or a satisfying muffin? It’s rolled oats. While these are perfect for a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh fruit for breakfast, you can also use oats to bake some of the most delicious desserts. And for those who enjoy oat milk, grab some to make your own at home—healthier and more affordable.

Spanish Manzanilla Olives - A Briny Delight

The olive variety at TJ's is both impressive and more affordable than what you’ll find at your local grocery store. Spanish Manzanilla olives are tender yet firm, bringing a delightful briny flavor. While you can incorporate these olives into many dishes, we often find ourselves snacking on them straight from the jar.