6 Healthy Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods Under $5

December 16, 2023

Courtesy of Trader Joe's

Grocery bills aren’t getting any less expensive. It seems like a trip to the local grocer now sends most into sticker shock. Stores like Costco and Aldi are great alternatives when you want to get the best bang for your buck, but do not sleep on Trader Joe’s when it comes to affordable groceries.

If you’re looking for healthy foods that have a longer shelf life (because they’re frozen!), Trader Joe’s cannot be beat. Here are some of the best Trader Joe’s frozen foods under $5 to keep your bank account intact.

1. Cedar Wrapped BBQ Sockeye Salmon Filet

Trader Joe’s Cedar Wrapped BBQ Sockeye Salmon Fillet is a frozen salmon (wild caught sockeye) filet that’s rubbed with several smoky and spicy BBQ seasonings, including smoked sea salt and chipotle powder. The cedar wrapping also helps keep the salmon moist after being cooked. It’s gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, and dairy free. Baked or grilled, this tasty dish packs a huge punch of protein (32 grams for one filet!) at just 160 calories. While price for the salmon may vary based on weight, 6 ounces of salmon will cost around $4.99.

2. Organic Açai Bowl

Trader Joe’s Organic Açaí Bowl ($3.99) is a refreshing, non-GMO snack or breakfast meal filled with açaí berries, fruits, and granola. The Organic Açaí Bowl contains organic strawberries, blueberries, and bananas, coconut shavings, and of course, açaí. With a quick defrosting these bowls will be ready to eat in no time for a fortifying start to the day.

3. Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers

For those looking for a smoky, southwestern dinner, Trader Joe’s Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers ($3.99/12 ounces) are a great option. The burger patty, made from quinoa, black beans, corn, red peppers, and seasonings, contains a complex, hearty flavor sure to satisfy. With only 180 calories per patty and 5 grams of protein, plus vitamin D, calcium, and iron, this frozen burger alternative is nutritious and filling.

4. Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry

A substantial alternative to standard rice or pasta would be the frozen riced cauliflower stir fry from Trader Joe’s. This gluten-free frozen dish — similar in texture to couscous — is made with cauliflower crumbles, tamari sauce, and sesame oil. The stir-fry also contains green peas, red bell peppers, grilled corn, and spring onions for a fresh flavor that dazzles in color, even when warmed up from frozen. At just 50 calories per cup, this frozen meal will only run you $3.79 for a 16 ounce bag at the check-out line.

5. Mexican-Style Riced Cauliflower

Trader Joe’s Mexican-Style Riced Cauliflower is a significant, frozen and low-carb option that will still keep you full until your next meal. Seasoned with cumin, cayenne, and lime, this dish is high in fiber, B vitamins, and vitamin C. Add some shrimp, chicken, or extra vegetables to make this protein-filled snack that will only run you $3.79 for a 16 punch bag.

6. Turkey Burgers

Trader Joe’s turkey burgers come frozen and are made with fresh turkey meat. The patties are gluten free with only 180 calories per serving as well as 22 grams of protein. These patties can even be cooked straight from the freezer for a quick, easy meal at just $3.79 for 16 ounces.

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