The Trader Joe’s Products Chefs Are Buying this Summer
Stock these chef-approved must-haves.
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Summer has arrived, which means it’s officially time to enjoy some much-needed fun in the sun. We stocked up on SPF and bug spray, pulled our outdoor furniture from storage, and prepped the pool. (Who knows? Some of you might’ve celebrated the change of season with a trendy pool mural.) Now the only thing left to do is fill your grocery cart with seasonal essentials, but where to look? Trader Joe’s, naturally. With fresh produce and scrumptious snacks for fair, affordable prices, the grocery chain is the ultimate solution for all your supermarket needs.
Of course, we’re not the only ones who love shopping at Trader Joe’s. Turns out, many West Coast-based chefs rely on the store for their summer soirée needs. Curious to see what’s lurking in their shopping carts, we asked a few culinary connoisseurs to share what they always buy during the warmer months ahead. Bon appétit!
Super Strawberry Sorbet, $4
Since summer is basically synonymous with ice cream, it’s in your best interest to stock up your freezer pronto. Topping our list of must-try flavors is Trader Joe’s Super Strawberry Sorbet. “It is great for satisfying that sweet craving, but also is the perfect item to spritz up summer cocktails and mocktails when entertaining,” says Chef Brooke Stockwell, executive chef of Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe in Los Olivos, California. For yummy results, Stockwell recommends adding a scoop to sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon. “[You can also add] to tequila with some lime juice and salt for a margarita, or to vodka with some sparkling water or citrusy soda,” she says.
Vegan Tzatziki Dip, $4
You have our permission to sneak in snacks between swimming laps and basking in the sun. For a bite that’s equal parts nutritious and delicious, consider Trader Joe’s Tzatziki Dip. “The cool, zesty flavor makes it an ideal choice for hot summer days, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at any gathering,” explains Jessica Randhawa, a California-based chef and recipe developer who runs The Forked Spoon. “Its versatility and fresh taste make it a must-have for any summer get-together.” All you need to do is cut up a few of your favorite vegetables, scoop some dip onto your plate, and you’ll be snack-ready.
Saint André Triple Crème Brie, $14
According to Christina Ferrari—chef and owner of the Shoreline Lake Boathouse in Mountain View, California—a cheese board is a must in the warmer months ahead. While she admits both the Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre Fresh Goat Cheese and White Stilton with Apricots will offer some much-needed pops of color, Trader Joe’s Saint André Triple Crème Brie is a worthwhile and downright delicious addition. She says: “Soft and creamy, French… what more to say?”
Aperito Spritz, $7
Happy hour al fresco, anyone? When in doubt, Ferrari reaches for Trader Joe’s Aperito Spritz. Sold as a set, this find is basically an Aperol Spritz in a sip-sized bottle. “As a hot-day refresher and a ready-to-drink summer cocktail, the Aperito Spritz also pairs well with the aforementioned cheese board,” she says.“Bubbly, Italian, makes it easy to entertain… yes, please.” (Looking for a booze-free alternative? Ferrari is also a big proponent of Trader Joe’s Sparkling Guava Juice.)
Brioche Buns, $4
Before you invite your friends over for a big barbecue blowout, you’ll want to make sure you have all the ingredients to get your grill on. Meats, veggies, and condiments are no-brainers, but Ferrari reaches for the store’s brioche burger and hot dog buns. “They are soft and buttery, and work well with other fillings also,” she explains. (Psst… need to upgrade your setup? Here are a few editor-approved grills you can add to your small space.)
S’mores Clusters
Though very few things can rival a night spent making s’mores by the fire, the whole endeavor can be a bit of a headache. Fortunately, Ferrari found the ultimate alternative in these S’mores Clusters. “This snack makes it easy to enjoy a classic summer treat, without having to pull out the skewers and fixings,” she says. Comprised of miniature marshmallows and graham crackers smothered in milk chocolate, these sweet treats capture the essence of s’mores in a single bite.
