12 Trader Joe’s Steals Under $2

Trader Joe’s is known for its unique options, affordable wine selection, and low-price treats that can fit any tight budget.

One of the best hacks for savvy shoppers is to look at Trader Joe’s options which are just $1.99 throughout the store.

If you’re trying to save money, check out some of these amazing pantry items next time you’re at Trader Joe’s.

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1. Dijon Mustard

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Price: $1.99

Skip the regular mustard and try something new with Trader Joe’s Dijon Mustard.

The mustard is made just outside of Dijon in France and features white wine to give it an authentic Dijon mustard taste. A 13-ounce jar for under $2 is a steal.

2. Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend

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Price: $1.99

You may be surprised at just how many ways you can use Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.

Pick up a 2.3-ounce jar and sprinkle it on top of fish, add it to casseroles, or use it for different baked goods.

3. Sea Salt Fine Crystals

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Price: $1.99

Sea salt is a great staple for any kitchen or pantry, and you can find some on the shelves of Trader Joe’s for less than $2.

The Sea Salt Fine Crystals feature Mediterranean sea salt that’s packed in a 26.5-ounce jar to make it easy to have on hand in your kitchen anytime you need it.

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4. Organic lemons

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Price: $1.99

The next time you visit Trader Joe's, add this organic one-pound bag of lemons to your cart.

A bag of lemons is perfect for making fresh lemon juice, or you can add it to recipes such as shrimp scampi, salmon (to season and add slices to the top) or bake a tasty lemon loaf.

5. Green Tea Unsweetened Beverage

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Price: $1.99

Add a cool glass of green tea iced tea to your list of things to try as it gets warmer outside.

Trader Joe’s has you covered with its Green Tea Unsweetened Beverage, which comes in a 33.8-ounce bottle.

If you want something with a little extra flavor, you can also try the Green Tea Blueberry & Pomegranate Unsweetened Beverage for the same price.

6. Non-Dairy Oat Creamer Brown Sugar Flavor

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Price: $1.99

Try something a little different instead of the usual creamer you add to your coffee each morning.

The Non-Dairy Oat Creamer Brown Sugar Flavor is a great alternative if you want something sweet. The 16-ounce carton can last you a while once a little portion brings lots of flavor.

7. Extra Large Black Olives

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Price: $1.99

Grab a can of Extra Large Black Olives that have been pitted to add to your pantry for any number of uses.

Add them to a charcuterie board, a pasta dish, tapenade spread for crackers or bread, or even to slice up and add to pizza or nachos.

8. Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil

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Price: $1.99

It may be a good time to try sardines with these budget-friendly Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil at Trader Joe’s.

The 4.25-ounce tin is packed with healthy Omega-3 fatty acids and calcium. It can be added to different dishes or eaten on its own as a healthy snack.

9. Marinara Sauce

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Price: $1.99

Add some marinara sauce to your pantry so you can grab it for an easy pasta dish, or add it to chicken and other recipes.

The 24-ounce jar comes in tomato basil or roasted garlic, depending on your preference. You can also grab one of each at this bargain price.

10. Organic Free Range Chicken Broth

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Price: $1.99

Chicken broth can be used in a variety of recipes including a delicious chicken soup recipe with whatever ingredients you want to toss in.

You can pick up a 32-ounce container of Organic Free Range Chicken Broth with or without the low sodium option.

11. Melange a Trois Bell Peppers

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Price: $1.99

This 16-ounce bag of Melange a Trois Bell Peppers is an easy way to add vegetables to recipes.

Pick up a bag and toss the red, yellow, and green pepper strips in a pan for stir fry, fajitas, pasta dishes, and more.

12. French Green Beans

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Price: $1.99

Another easy vegetable that’s also affordable at Trader Joe’s is its bag of French Green Beans, which come in a huge 24-ounce bag and make for a quick and delicious side for dinner.

These bags are in high demand during Thanksgiving, but given their price and high quality (they are imported from France), it’s no surprise they are popular all year long.

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Bottom line

Trader Joe’s is a great place to shop if you’re trying to keep more money in your wallet or want to try new items.

But Trader Joe’s doesn’t have a loyalty program like other grocery stores, so you may want to make sure you’re using the best rewards credit cards to earn extra perks and points as you shop.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).