When I’m on the wagon, as I like to call it, there are certain things that I must have in my refrigerator at all times. It just so happens that most of things come from Trader Joe’s. I use to be very anti-Trader Joe’s. Yes, that is possible. I was younger and though of it as “that weird store”. Oh, I was so wrong. I didn’t know then that future me would think that Trader Joe’s could do no wrong… except ignoring north Seattle and Shoreline by not opening a store in those areas.
I’m the kind of gal who needs a little crunch with her oatmeal. I can’t stand that Quaker Oats variety pack, it’s just lacks the texture I need in the morning. Enter Trader Joe’s Steel Cut Oatmeal. It may not be as convenient as the other oatmeal but it definitely does not lack texture. It has a simple flavor that’s not too sweet, it is just brown sugar and maple sugar. It is just enough sweetness to be satisfying. And really, you can’t go wrong with this, it’s only 2 points! If you add in some extras like berries, sliced bananas or even nuts, you have a great healthy filling breakfast. When I see this in stores, I pick up enough for 2 weeks at a time. My freezer doesn’t like it so much but good thing I usually take a few boxes at a time to work with me.
My other Trader Joe’s staple is their Organic Brown Rice. What I love about this is how quick and easy it is. All I have to do is pop this in microwave for 3 minutes and I have perfectly cooked brown rice for only 2 points per serving. My timing is awful when I cook, often times I have my side getting cold while I’m still working on my protein so this is really helpful. I have been tempted to make some brown rice salad with this for quite awhile now, I should see how WW rates the recipe I want to use.
What are your diet staples? I love hearing about new things like this. Usually I weigh in and I’m out but from time to time I stay and listen. If I had not stayed for a meeting one time, I would have never tried these two Trader Joe’s items.
