My Favorite Paleo Products at Trader Joe’s

I recently began following a 90%ish Paleo eating plan again, and I thought it would be fun to share my favorite Paleo products at Trader Joe’s. Since Paleo is pretty strict (no wheat, no dairy, no added sugar, no preservatives) it as actually pretty hard to find products (besides the produce aisle) that are a fit. I love Trader Joe’s so much and so I love it when I find Paleo products at Trader Joe’s that are not only delicious, but easier on the pocket book compared to other stores. (If you’re doing Whole30, be sure to check out my Tips for Surviving Whole30)

1.) Olives- various prices

There are actually several types of olives here that are “kosher” for Paleo. They cannot contain preservatives to be a true fit, and this Greek Olive Medley ($3.99) fits the bill. They are delicious! Find them in the refrigerated section close to the cheeses. (which sadly, are not Paleo.) Also, their jarred, pitted Kalamatas ($2.99) are perfect for salads!

2.) Chicken Sausages

I found at least 2 versions that are Paleo approved. Sausges are especially hard to find since almost all of them contain preservatives or sugar or both. The spicy Italian and sundried tomato and basil varieties are perfectly fine.

3.) Avocado Salsa

If you’ve done Paleo (or Whole30) for long, you know that sauces can become so important in kicking eating boredom to the street. It is rare to find a store-made sauce that fits Paleo criteria AND tastes good- this one does both for sure! Eat it over eggs, with taco meat, or as a salad dressing.

4.) Lara Bars ($1.29 each)

These are a great thing to keep in your purse or bag for those times you need something to eat but can’t get a meal right away. Just be sure to check the ingredients- not all of them are okay for Paleo. (Also, check out my homemade version here for a cheaper way to go!)

5.) Cashew butter ($7.99)

Since we aren’t supposed to have peanut products on Paleo, other nut butters are a life-saver.  I got a little burnt out on almond butter my first go with Whole30, and found this cashew butter. It’s smooth, creamy, and delicious on apples or bananas for a quick afternoon snack.

6.) Freeze-dried mango ($2.99)

This. This stuff. Don’t buy a lot of it because even though it’s Paleo-ok, it’s high in natural sugars and believe me, once you start eating this stuff, you can’t stop! Unlike regularly dried fruit that is chewy (and often filled with added sugar and preservatives- check your labels!), this package consists of only mango and it’s crunchy and light. Oh-so-good. I’m thinking that God meant mangos as the ultimate dessert!

7.) Pico de gallo ($2.69)

This is also a great topper for eggs, fish, chicken- or try it on avocado for a snack!

8.) Jalapeno Pepper Sauce ($2.29)

I always love something spicy to make foods more interesting. Try this on a baked sweet potato!

9.) Sugar snap peas ($2.49)

These aren’t special to Trader Joe’s of course, but they make a perfect snack with minimal calories. I also like that the bag is small so they don’t get mushy before they’re gone.

10.) Vegetable- mushroom medley ($3.99)

With Paleo, you’re constantly chopping veggies so it’s nice to take the night off occasionally. It’s pricier than chopping your own but so much cheaper than eating out. The medley I bought had asparagus, mushrooms, and red onions. I sautéed it with a little olive oil, some shrimp, salt, and garlic powder for lunch for a friend. A 10-minute meal!

Bonus: Bombay Simmer Curry Sauce ($2.49)

Again, it’s relatively hard to find sauces that are okay for Paleo/Whole30. I bought this one but haven’t tried it yet so it can’t go on my favorites just now, but my plan is to pour it with chicken and carrots in a crock pot, add a little salt, and voila, dinner!