I’m a Chef: Here Are 4 Things I Buy From Trader Joe’s Every Month To Save Money

When GOBankingRates put out a call to chefs to share their favorite monthly purchases at Trader Joe’s, the answers included everything but the kitchen sink. Fan favorites like the Everything But The Bagel seasoning and Chicken Tikka Masala were mentioned several times due to their affordable prices and crowd pleasing taste.

Also see these Trader Joe’s saving hacks.

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It was Elizabeth Mehditach, private chef and founder of Cafe L?”za , who won us over with her monthly Trader Joe’s shopping list. Everything on her list is budget -friendly, and her picks offer buyers a recurring monthly purchase power. Here are four things that Mehditach loves to buy every month to save money.

Organic Tricolor Quinoa

At $3.49 per bag, Trader Joe’s Organic Tricolor Quinoa is a staple in Mehditach’s pantry for several reasons. There’s protein in the quinoa for additional carbs and it offers enough versatility to add to salads or side dishes.

Additionally, shoppers can get a lot of bang for their buck. Every bag weighs 16 ounces, which Mehditach said is the perfect amount to get in a few uses before you need to return to the store and buy another bag.

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Strawberry and Jalapeño Crisps

Another recurring purchase on Mehditach’s list is Trader Joe’s Strawberry & Jalapeño Crisps .

The limited-edition crunchy bites are $3.99 per box and essential to keep stocked in one’s pantry in the event of unexpected guests. If company is coming over at the last minute, Mehditach recommends keeping these crisps on hand as a key ingredient for a quick and easy cheese and charcuterie platter.

Round out the rest of the platter with your favorite Trader Joe’s cheeses, their Premium Milk & Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds or Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries and dress up the platter with fresh flowers.

Vegan Kale, Cashew and Basil Pesto

Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto is another versatile must-have which goes the distance every month. Mehditach recommends using it for everything from quick pasta and pesto dinners, to sandwich spread or dips to pair with your favorite crudités or crackers.

Each container costs $3.99. Chances are pretty good you’ll use it all up before the month is out.

New York Deli Style Cheesecake

Much like the Strawberry & Jalapeño Crisps, it’s not a bad idea to keep Trader Joe’s New York Deli Style Cheesecake on standby in your freezer for last-minute office potlucks or book club nights. Each 30-ounce cheesecake is $7.99 and only requires being thawed out before enjoying since it’s already baked.

“It’s a no fuss, no bake dessert to make your own,” said Mehditach.

She recommends topping off the cheesecake with caramel, chocolate sauce or Trader Joe’s Organic Freeze-Dried Berry Medley — the latter of which is $3.99 for a bag of strawberries, blueberries and raspberries.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : I’m a Chef: Here Are 4 Things I Buy From Trader Joe’s Every Month To Save Money