Five Yummy Trader Joe's Lunches for Work

                For me a trip to Trader Joe’s is always a happy discovery of new and delicious items that don’t break the bank. I could spend three or four blogs on their wine section alone, so I won’t go there right now! To save on money (and calories) from eating out for lunch during the week, I have five go-to quick and easy meals for lunch at work when I’m being lazy. Ironically these are all vegetarian though I am not, so carnivores please don’t hold that against me.

1. Super Burrito – Quinoa, sweet potato and kale in a spicy chile-onion tortilla. I know what you’re thinking: “You Californian’s have taken this too far now!”, but seriously it’s actually yummy. It really feels like you’re having one of those deliciously gross frozen burritos, except this one is healthy and contains all super foods. If I can get my husband to try this and approve, then anyone would be content with this.

1. Frozen Tamales – In their frozen (duh) section at Trader Joe’s they have a selection of tamales. They come in a two pack, each wrapped in corn husks like they should. I cannot say enough about the green chile and cheese ones, they are the closest to true homemade tamales that I have come across (I am fortunate to have friends who home-make these at Christmas time so I know). So good, try these now!

2. Paneer Tikka Masala – Yummy and could pass as a non-frozen meal item. I love to mix the masala sauce and the rice together to make a yummy filling lunch. The chunks of paneer cheese in it totally make the meal.

1. Vegetable Pad Thai – This isn’t my all-time favorite but it is pretty darn good. It has just enough spice to keep it interesting and veggies to make me feel like I’m being healthy-ish.  It’s not too heavy but is just enough to keep me full and fills my craving for Thai until I can get the real deal.

1. Southwest Salad  - Lettuce, black beans, corn, Cotija cheese, red and green peppers, red onions, and a southwest ranch dressing! Enough ‘stuff’ to make every bite yummy! It is very filling for a salad, and not too bad on the calories if you go easy on the dressing!

I know there is a long list of delicious items that Trader Joe's has that I've yet to try, but this is a great beginners guide and will always be a lunchtime staple for me.