Trader Joe’s Keto Must-Haves
Trader Joe’s may best be known for their top-notch customer service, friendly, Hawaiian shirt-wearing “crew members,” or unique products at low prices (anyone else look forward to the pumpkin goods come fall?). But what you might not know is that their shelves are stocked with keto-friendly items that will help you stay on track. From snacks that will tide you over until your next meal, and condiments that will pack flavor into any dish to staples you can count on to whip up quick meals, these 16 products are your Trader Joe’s keto must-haves.
Trader Joe’s Keto Snacks
Everything But the Bagel Nut Duo: Customers can’t get enough of its sister seasoning, so it should come as no surprise that these nuts are also a big hit (just be cognizant of the number of cashews you consume as it’s a higher-carb nut).
Chomps Grass-Fed Beef Sticks: If you’re looking for an on-the-go snack, we suggest reaching for these beef sticks. Because they’re made from grass-fed (versus grain-fed) beef, you’ll benefit from more than just the nine grams of protein and zero grams of net carbs they contain—you’ll be getting Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and cancer-fighting antioxidants with every bite. [1]
Volpi Roltini Singles: Mozzarella cheese wrapped in meat (in this case uncured pepperoni) makes for the ideal keto combo. High in fat and low in carbs, this appetizer is as delicious as it is handy.
Oven-Baked Cheese Bites: This fan-favorite Trader Joe’s keto snack is tasty enough to eat on its own, but it’s equally good sprinkled atop a salad or side dish.
Giant Chalkidiki Olives: Remember those volpi roltini singles? These olives make the ideal pairing. High in fat and low in calories, they’ll not only keep you satisfied, but also leave you feeling guilt-free.
Another keto addition to your charcuterie is homemade olive tapenade. Simply place the olives along with some fresh parsley, capers, olive oil, garlic cloves, and lemon juice in a food processor and pulse briefly until you have your desired consistency.
Condiments
Clarified Butter (Ghee): A must-have in every keto dieter‘s pantry, ghee serves many purposes, including a healthy alternative to creamer, a preferred oil for cooking at high temperatures, and a delicious garnish over vegetables or a steak, just to name a few.
Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip: Whether you pair this decadent dip with vegetables, your grass-fed beef burger, or the aforementioned oven-baked cheese bites, you’ll likely be going for seconds.
Cheese Party Tray: Packaged and pre-sliced for (low-carb) snacking convenience, this arrangement of Colby Jack, Swiss, Mild Cheddar, and Pepper Jack cheeses does not disappoint. It goes without saying that it’s the perfect topper for your burger, be it beef, turkey, or chicken. No party necessary.
Green Goddess Salad Dressing: This find can do double duty as a marinade for your proteins and a drizzle over your favorite keto salad.
Avocado’s Number Guacamole To Go: When you don’t have the time or feel like making your own guac, this Trader Joe’s keto item saves the day. What’s more, research shows that eating avocados as a source of healthy fats leads to reductions in LDL cholesterol (aka the bad cholesterol). [2]
Consider this condiment your go-to (healthy) fat addition to a snack or meal!
Trader Joe’s Keto Staples
Grass-Fed Organic Ground Beef: With 17 grams of fat, 21 grams of protein, and zero grams of carbs, you can’t go wrong with this staple. Plus, it’s organic and grass-fed, so you don’t have to question its quality. And because of its versatility, you can easily and quickly make tacos, burgers, chilis, and more with it.
Organic Oven Roasted Turkey Breast: Sans nitrates and nitrites, added hormones, and antibiotics, you’re left with a great source of protein that doesn’t take any thought or effort.
Chili Lime Chicken Burgers: Flavorful, protein-packed, and low-carb. What more could you ask for? Find them in the frozen aisle and grab the aforementioned guacamole or cheese while you’re at it for the perfect complement (and bonus fat).
Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry: Save time and trouble and opt for this frozen basic as a side to your grilled salmon. For another time-saving meal idea, Trader Joe’s suggests enjoying it with an egg, avocado, and hot sauce (all of which are keto-approved!). Or simply batch-cook some chicken for pre-made keto bowls that can be taken on-the-go!
Zucchini Spirals: Craving pasta? These zucchini spirals will hit the spot without the carb overload. Throw some grass-fed organic ground beef, olive oil, and cheese over it, and you’ve got yourself a well-rounded keto entree.
Organic Green Vegetable Foursome: This frozen gem checks all the boxes for keto-approved veggies—broccoli florets, French green beans, and zucchini.
The next time you’re short on groceries, look no further than your local Trader Joe’s to take the guesswork out of eating keto (just another reason to love them). And don’t forget this list of keto-approved items to add to your cart!
References
Daley, C. A., Abbott, A., Doyle, P. S., Nader, G. A., & Larson, S. (2010). A review of fatty acid profiles and antioxidant content in grass-fed and grain-fed beef. Nutrition journal, 9, 10. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-9-10
Liu, A. G., Ford, N. A., Hu, F. B., Zelman, K. M., Mozaffarian, D., & Kris-Etherton, P. M. (2017). A healthy approach to dietary fats: understanding the science and taking action to reduce consumer confusion. Nutrition journal, 16(1), 53. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12937-017-0271-4
