Picking healthy snacks, especially while living in a dorm, is definitely a challenge. A lack of space to store fresh fruits and vegetables coupled with little time to make complicated snacks leads to the inevitable choice of grabbing a handful of chips and calling it a day. Luckily, Trader Joe's is the answer to our collegiate prayers. Next time you need a quick fix, try these healthy Trader Joe's snacks to keep you satisfied and energized.
1. Almond, Cashew, and Chocolate Trek Mix
TJ's trail mixes are always the perfect healthy handful, but this perfect combo of sweet, salty, and crunchy will crush all of your cravings.
2. Roasted Seaweed Chips
If Asian flavors fit your fancy, reach for this sushi-inspired snack that's packed with Vitamin K and is an awesome alternative to traditional chips. For an added kick, pick up the wasabi-flavored version that's a staple in my snack cabinet.
3. Hummus
Paired with carrots, pretzels, or pita chips, hummus makes an awesome, protein-packed snack, and Trader Joe's slightly garlicky and super creamy version is spot-on.
4. Dried Fruit
Anyone who has ever entered a TJ's is familiar with this aisle—a delicious wall of dried fruits and nuts. Buried within it is some of the best mixes of dried fruits ranging from oranges and cranberries to kiwis and raspberries. This corridor is a mecca for beating a study time sweet tooth, so stock up!
5. "Inner Peas" Snacks
The only thing better than this snack's name is the totally addictive crunch and low calorie count. When you desperately need a chip, go for these zen baked snacks instead.
6. Kale Chips
This snack is another perfect potato chip alternative, as Trader Joe's kills the kale chip game with a variety of flavors ranging from plain salted to zesty nacho.
7. Reduced Guilt Guacamole
This unique guac is made super creamy by swapping half of the avocado for Greek yogurt, eliminating some of the fat and making it much creamier and protein-packed. Trust me, you won't miss the extra avo one bit.
8. Truffle Marcona Almonds
A classic cheese plate accoutrement, Marcona almonds roasted with truffle oil and sea salt are a TJ's must have for when you want a healthy snack and are feeling a little bit bougie.
9. Pre-made Salads
For a more substantial snack, pick up some of TJ's salads that are made with fresh veggies, grains, and herbs and eat them by themselves or scoop them up with pita chips or naan bread.
10. Peanut Butter Cups, because you deserve them
Enrobed in dark chocolate and made with organic peanut butter, these peanut butter cups are definitely a healthier option than a Reese's, but still a guilty pleasure. Honestly, though, you can't leave the store without them. It's all about balance, right?
Toss this selection of salty and sweet healthy Trader Joe's snacks in your bright red shopping cart and you'll never have post-snack guilt again.