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Jordan Provost / Allrecipes
Key Takeaways
- Trader Joe's is known for its seasonal specialty items that come and go with each month.
- Here is a roundup of some of the grocery products shoppers are stocking up on this May, from snacks to easy meals and treats.
It’s easy to see why Trader Joe’s has a cult following. From Celebration Cake Pretzels and mini sheet cakes to budget-friendly collapsible totes, there’s plenty to love. While it’s true that shoppers also go there for the atmosphere and prices, the quality staple ingredients and rotating products are what truly draw people in. TJ’s has unique items you won’t find anywhere else, like Banana Pudding Ice Cream, that add excitement to otherwise mundane weekly shopping trips.
This month's fresh finds are sure to spark joy in your hangry moments and add flair to your cookout spread. From salty treats to unique shareable desserts, there’s something for everyone–but you’ll have to act fast because many of these won’t stick around for long.
Here are our top five picks under $5 at Trader Joe’s this month.
Best New Trader Joe's Products This May
Buffalo Ranch Popcorn, $2.99
Allrecipes / Trader Joe's
This five-ingredient treat contains fluffy butterfly popcorn generously coated with Buffalo ranch seasoning. Each bite is the perfect blend of heat and cool herb flavor. One user on Reddit said the popcorn was an instant hit at their store. “It’s delicious, it came in last night and myself and pretty much everyone that was working last night all bought one, which hardly ever happens.” Another shopper was disappointed, describing the flavor as too ranch-forward with not enough Buffalo flavor. However, many others said they felt that it was the ideal balance. “I was already buying it, but this sold me even further lol I love ranch,” said one person. “Same, I honestly wouldn’t mind a mild Buffalo, heavy ranch flavor. Sounds right up my alley,” added another. With road trip season coming up, you’ll need a fresh selection of car snacks, and what better than this crunchy and zesty popcorn?
Japanese Mini Taiyaki, $4.99
Allrecipes / Trader Joe's
These mini fish-shaped bites feature a golden crispy waffle filled with creamy custard. The treat can be warmed in the oven, microwave, or air fryer. However, a few users have eaten them frozen. “I had one yesterday right from the freezer (had assumed it was ice cream). Still thought they were tasty, though the shell seemed a bit stale. Oh well, gotta try to fry them up now!” wrote one person on Reddit. Others chimed in to say they assumed the same thing. One person said that although they thought the snack tasted okay frozen, it was “10x better heated up.” If you plan to serve these for dessert, it’s important to note that each bag contains about two and a half servings, so you may need to grab two. And don’t forget to dust them with powdered sugar for an extra sweet finish.
Sparkling Matcha Lemonade, $1.99
Allrecipes / Trader Joe's
Those who love the earthy taste of matcha can now enjoy it with a bright citrus twist. Trader Joe’s is stocking cans of Sparkling Matcha Lemonade for the spring and summer seasons. It combines matcha and lemonade flavors with a bubbly sparkling water base for a refreshing drink alternative to regular lemonade. In a recent Reddit thread, fans who have tried it say that while the color is off-putting, the drink is “really delicious.” On Instagram, one person said it was the “perfect blend of matcha and lemonade.”
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs, $4.29
Allrecipes / Trader Joe's
According to Trader Joe’s website, when testers tried these meatballs, they “immediately knew that we had something special.” It’s not hard to see why, either. The tropical flavor of pineapple is a natural complement to chicken’s mild taste. When you add sweet and savory teriyaki to the mix, it creates a delicious combination that’s ideal for snacking, tossing with pasta, or enjoying alongside rice. These meatballs are gluten-free and fully cooked, making them a smart weeknight shortcut. Shoppers have suggested using the chicken meatballs in lettuce wraps, salad, and tossing them in barbecue sauce to make a quick and easy flatbread sandwich.
Spicy Pink Salt With Crushed Red Chili Pepper, $1.99
Allrecipes / Trader Joe's
We already know that Trader Joe’s has stellar seasonings, but we can’t overlook the simpler ones. TJ’s has added Spicy Pink Salt with Crushed Red Chili Pepper to shelves, and it’s the ideal way to zhuzh up your favorite dishes without overpowering the star ingredient. You can sprinkle this blend on grilled veggies, use it as a pasta topping, or add it to homemade popcorn. Fans have also mentioned that it’s great for garnishing your favorite spicy cocktails.
Honorable Mention
Tres Leches Cake, $7.99
Allrecipes / Trader Joe's
This returning product isn’t under $5, but our list would be incomplete without a mention. Those who love tres leches cake know that the ultra-light dessert is in a league all its own. You’ll find TJ’s version in the freezer section, and based on fans’ excitement, you’re gonna want to stock up. “Been waiting for this–I’m taking home 5,” said one Instagrammer. “Don’t buy it unless you can resist eating the entire thing. It is soooo good,” another jokingly warned. This treat features a soft sponge cake that’s soaked with heavy cream, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Fluffy whipped cream tops this thaw-and-serve dessert, making it the perfect canvas for a dusting of cinnamon or fresh berries.
Many of these products are only available for a limited time, so be sure to snag them on your next shopping trip and stock up on your favorites before they’re gone for the season. And if you don’t live close to a Trader Joe’s store, that might change soon. The retailer recently announced it’s opening 21 new stores in 13 states, so be sure to check out the full list to see if one is popping up near you.
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