Snacks - Healthy Options & Recipes | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/snacks/ Your ultimate source for expert nutrition tips and health advice, covering wellness, healthy recipes, cooking hacks, food news, style trends and shopping. Wed, 28 Feb 2024 21:07:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.3 https://www.eatthis.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/01/ETNT_favicon-1.png?strip=all&cf-bypass&w=32 Snacks - Healthy Options & Recipes | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/snacks/ 32 32 Wed, 28 Feb 2024 22:13:40 -0500 Pringles Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Chip Flavor https://www.eatthis.com/pringles-honey-mustard-returns/ Wed, 28 Feb 2024 18:15:43 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=787600 A discontinued Pringles flavor is making a highly anticipated return to store shelves. After teasing...

The post Pringles Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Chip Flavor appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
A discontinued Pringles flavor is making a highly anticipated return to store shelves. After teasing the release of a chip flavor on Instagram, the snack brand announced yesterday that it will be bringing back Honey Mustard Pringles.

In 2022, Pringles got rid of this flavor, much to fans' disappointment. According to Kellanova, the brand's parent company, "thousands" of social media users requested the item's revival. These chips feature a combination of garlic and red spices to present a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.

RELATED: I Tried 10 Old-Fashioned Plain Potato Chips & There Was One Clear Winner

honey mustard pringles

"Pringles Honey Mustard has an incredibly passionate fanbase, in fact, it was our most asked-for flavor from the brand in the last two years," Mauricio Jenkins, U.S. marketing lead for Pringles, said in a press release. "Our die-hard fans' efforts paid off and the delicious tangy and subtly sweet Pringles Honey Mustard crisps are returning to shelves…for good!"

The returning chips will be available at select retailers nationwide.

RELATED: The 30 Unhealthiest Snacks on the Planet

When Pringles first teased the upcoming flavor release, Instagram users left their guesses in the post's comments section. Some predictions included ketchup and mustard, cheeseburger, spicy mustard, honey barbecue, and of course, honey mustard.

After Pringles confirmed Honey Mustard's comeback on Instagram, fans swarmed the comments section to share their excitement.

"Omg these are so good! I hope I can find them soon. I use[d] to have to travel to another state to get them. They're that good," one Instagram user wrote.

"THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU," another one commented.

RELATED: I Tried 7 Popular Tortilla Chips & the Best Was Habit-Forming

In 2023, Pringles rolled out a few new flavors. In August, the brand released its limited-edition Everything Bagel flavor, which has notes of sesame, poppy seeds, and cream cheese, along with toasted onion and garlic.

Before this flavor debut, the snack brand launched Pringles Harvest Blend, a collection of chips featuring sweet potato and multigrain varieties. These chips come in a few different flavors, including Multigrain Farmhouse Cheddar, Multigrain Homestyle Ranch, Sweet Potato Sea Salt, and Sweet Potato Smoky BBQ.

The post Pringles Just Brought Back a Fan-Favorite Chip Flavor appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Oreo Is Dropping 2 Exciting New Cookie Flavors—And One Will Fill You With Nostalgia https://www.eatthis.com/oreo-dirt-cake-tiramisu-thins/ Wed, 28 Feb 2024 16:03:09 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=787539 Oreo has been busy in 2024, unveiling several different cookie flavors over the past two...

The post Oreo Is Dropping 2 Exciting New Cookie Flavors—And One Will Fill You With Nostalgia appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Oreo has been busy in 2024, unveiling several different cookie flavors over the past two months. And now, the brand is continuing to expand its offerings with two new Oreo flavors: Dirt Cake and Tiramisu Thins.

Both new cookies will be available starting Monday, March 4. While the Dirt Cake Oreos are a limited-edition release that will be available nationwide while supplies last, the Tiramisu Thins are a permanent addition to Oreo's product portfolio.

RELATED: 18 Most Unique Oreo Flavors Ever Released

The new Dirt Cake Oreos draw inspiration from the classic childhood dessert typically made with pudding, crushed Oreos, and gummy worms. The new flavor features two chocolate wafers sandwiching a layer of brownie-flavored creme stacked on top of chocolate creme with Oreo wafer crumbs. The cookies also have colorful gummy worm-inspired sprinkles on top of them.

dirt cake oreos

"Imagine pulling up to the school function with these," Oreo wrote on Instagram yesterday, announcing the product's launch. Social media users flooded the comments section to express their excitement about the new cookie flavor—and bask in their nostalgia.

"That took me back to my childhood," one Instagram user wrote. "Oreo baby this is so creative!!! A+ work!!" another one commented.

For the tiramisu fans, the new Thins feature Oreo's classic thin cookies sandwiching a layer of tiramisu-flavored creme. "Coffee lovers stay winning!" Oreo wrote in the caption of a TikTok video announcing the new product. Other Oreo Thin options include Mint, Extra Stuf, Golden with vanilla creme, Golden with lemon-flavored cream, and of course, the original Oreo flavor.

tiramisu oreo thins

RELATED: 8 Exciting New Flavors Oreo Released in 2023

In addition to Dirt Cake and Tiramisu, Oreo recently unveiled its new limited-edition, galaxy-inspired Space Dunk cookies. These cookies have pink and blue marshmallow-flavored creme with popping candies. The chocolate wafers also have space-themed cutout designs that preview the colorful creme filling.

To celebrate this new release, Oreo is giving customers the chance to take a six-hour "journey to the edge of space" through its Lift Off with Oreo sweepstakes. Fans can enter this contest by scanning the QR code on the cookie's package or by visiting LiftOff.OREO.com until April 5. 

Before the rollout of the Space Dunk cookies, Oreo dropped three new flavors at the beginning of January. These include Gluten-Free Golden Oreos, Oreo Peanut Butter Cakesters, and limited-edition Black & White Cookie Oreos.

The post Oreo Is Dropping 2 Exciting New Cookie Flavors—And One Will Fill You With Nostalgia appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
I Tried 6 Frozen Mac & Cheese Bites & the Best Was Buttery and Luscious https://www.eatthis.com/frozen-mac-cheese-bites-taste-test/ Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:45:49 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=786901 The Super Bowl is over, but that doesn't mean all the get-togethers and delicious snack-making...

The post I Tried 6 Frozen Mac & Cheese Bites & the Best Was Buttery and Luscious appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
The Super Bowl is over, but that doesn't mean all the get-togethers and delicious snack-making have to end. Whether you're a basketball fan, hockey enthusiast, or a social butterfly, there's always something to celebrate and look forward to. And here's the perfect appetizer for your next watch party or event: macaroni and cheese bites.

Whoever came up with the idea to load the creamy and universally admired comfort dish into crisped, bite-sized pockets is a snack-time genius. And now, many different stores and brands offer versions of the tidbits.

Before you go out to the store and pick up the first box you lock eyes on, though, check out the results of this survey to see which options came across as the absolute cheesiest and which also strike a proper balance of crispy breading to tender noodles. Each munchable bite was cooked per the brand's instructions in the oven to level the playing field, and I brought no preconceived opinions to this taste test.

Giant Eagle Mac 'N Cheese Bites

giant eagle mac n cheese bites

PER SERVING (4 PIECES): 220 calories, 11 g fat (2.5 g saturated fat), 630 mg sodium, 26 g carbs (<1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 5 g protein

Giant Eagle locations are not widespread—confined to five states, mainly Ohio and Pennsylvania. But, the chain greatly impacts these areas and is one of my favorite places to shop. I've spent a great deal of time in the store's frozen foods aisle, cold and contemplating which munchy to grab for the game or my own snacking needs.

I'd never reached for Giant Eagle's store brand Mac 'N Cheese Bites. They claim to be "restaurant-style," and although the box depicts a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, the bites are served solo. A box of 12 cost me a reasonable $3.29.

The look: Triangular-shaped but with a batter coating that makes them resemble McDonald's chicken nuggets. The innards are a pale orange, and the macaroni noodles aren't overly cheesy.

The taste: These bites are one of the few Giant Eagle products that disappoint me. The inner mac and cheese portion tasted solely of cheddar cheese and was watery. To make matters worse, much of the cheesiness comes from powder, sauce mix, and a combination of natural and artificial flavorings.  Yellow No. 5 and No. 6 dyes are thrown in to create that more appealing coloring. The outer casing comes with its laundry list of problems, among them being more chewy than crispy.

RELATED: 14 Best Frozen Appetizers at Costco Right Now

Feel Good Foods Three Cheese Mac & Cheese Bites

feel good foods mac n cheese bites

PER SERVING (3 PIECES): 240 calories, 13 g fat (5 g saturated fat), 380 mg sodium, 24 g carbs (1 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 8 g protein

Feel Good Foods Mac & Cheese Bites are bursting with yellow cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The recipe comes from the minds of a restauranteur and a chef who came together to create a lineup of gluten-free foods. The bites can be bought online through retailers such as the Gluten-Free Mall or Thrive Market. They can also be found at grocers like Whole Foods, Fresh Thyme Market, and at my local Meijer, where I grabbed a box that hadn't yet been made over in the company's new bright yellow packaging. Each 12-count is typically priced at $6.89 at the chain, but you can expect to pay more when ordering online.

The look: Uniformly sphere-shaped with a crumbly outer crust. Most pieces split open during the baking process, revealing bright carrot-colored contents. The shade is less natural than the picture on the box.

The taste: These bites come out of the oven with a nice crunch. But, they cool off rapidly, losing all that great texture and even turning to the dry side. This could be because there are more noodles than cheese. As I munched, I noticed a mustard flavor, and, sure enough, mustard powder was an included ingredient—one that I would have traded for another helping of cheese.

RELATED: 9 Best Trader Joe's Appetizers, According to Our Editors

Louisa White Cheddar Toasted Mac & Cheese

louisa mac n cheese bites

PER SERVING (4 BITES): 260 calories, 15 g fat (4.5 g saturated fat), 510 mg sodium, 25 g carbs (1 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 8 g protein

Louisa does macaroni and cheese bites differently. The company's goal is to be a leader in frozen pasta. This mission carries over into its line of appetizers, including Toasted Mac & Cheese. The means the products outer husk is pasta rather than a breading blanket. The bites also include white cheddar cheese instead of yellow cheddar and ricotta and mozzarella. On the back of the $5.09 box, you can also find a recipe for a yummy pizzaioli sauce for pairing. I gave them a fair shot by themselves.

The look: Flat and disc-shaped. They look like fried ravioli. The color of the mac and cheese is closer to white or cream rather than orange or yellow. They're not overly stuffed.

The taste: There's a decent amount of cheese but not enough mac. The inside is creamy and cheesy—likely due to the added ricotta–but the specific notes of cheddar and mozzarella aren't obvious, making it a little bland. It seems like there are hardly any noodles. I did enjoy the pasta exterior. The edges crisped perfectly in the oven and their sturdiness makes them easy to eat and dip.

RELATED: 14 Best & Worst Frozen Appetizers You Can Buy, Say Dietitians

Stouffer's Bite-Fulls Classic Mac & Cheese Bites

stouffers mac n cheese bites

PER SERVING (3 PIECES): 220 calories, 11 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 340 mg sodium, 23 g carbs (1 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 6 g protein

When I think of Stouffer's, I picture ready-to-bake, family-size lasagnas. But, the brand's other claim to fame is its frozen macaroni and cheese—it claims to be America's No. 1 in this department. The dish is served in many different ways, including in a Mac & Cheese Bites form, where the classic recipe is encased in a crispy breading. They are part of the brand's Bite-Fulls line and use real cheddar. A heftier–sized container of the appetizer, with 15 total pieces, costs $7.49 at my nearest Giant Eagle.

The look: These are a mouthful—the largest bites in the taste test. The size of each is inconsistent. Two were morphed together in the box, forming one long macaroni and cheese clump. At each bite's core is a golden nucleus of cheesy elbow noodles.

The taste: Creamy and yummy, but nothing standout. Just like Giant Eagle's offering, there isn't enough complexity with a single cheese. The breading is lusterless, and it didn't get crusty enough in the oven. Perhaps the air fryer would have brought them to that desired texture—I'll try that next time. Other than these complaints, these are a solid option, but I expected more from such an established brand.

RELATED: 9 Best & Worst Frozen Foods at Trader Joe's, According to Dietitians

Appetitos Mac & Cheese Bites

appetitos mac n cheese bites

PER SERVING (4 PIECES): 210 calories, 12 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 550 mg sodium, 22 g carbs (1 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 4 g protein

If you're a habitual Aldi shopper, you know that big-name brands aren't the store's style. Instead, the chain's inventory is mostly comprised of private label products such as Nature's Nectar, Millville, and Simply Nature. In the frozen aisle, customers also find many appetizers and snacks sporting the Appetitos label. Franks in a blanket, mozzarella cheese sticks, puff pastry bites, and spinach artichoke dip are just a few options, in addition to classic macaroni and cheese bites. A relatively small box with 11 pieces sells for $3.49.

The look: Not overly appetizing. The shape resembles a mini corn dog, and the breading has the same look. Some became smooshed down in the oven, but noodles are still visible in the middle.

The taste: I wasn't expecting anything incredible, but the bites surprised me for a budget option. Their shell reaches an acceptable level of crispiness despite the droopy look, and the inside isn't oozing with cheese sauce. Despite incorporating only cheddar cheese, the cheese has a one-of-a-kind taste like Parmesan, or some other mild white cheese was thrown in. It's a box I would reach for again.

RELATED: The 10 Best Frozen Dumpling Brands

Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites

trader joes mac n cheese bites

PER SERVING (3 PIECES): 190 calories, 10 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 280 mg sodium, 19 g carbs (2 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 7 g protein

It didn't surprise me that Trader Joe's stocks Mac and Cheese Bites alongside its countless other award-winning frozen apps and treats. Each box comes with 10 pieces, costs $3.99, and sports a new and improved recipe. The chain explains that the fresh version of the bites is "cheesier than ever" with seven—yes, seven—different cheese types stuffed in. Expect each bite to be stuffed with cheddar, havarti, Swiss, Gouda, Monterey Jack, Pecorino-Romano, and cream cheese. With all this fromage, it's a miracle that any elbow macaroni could still fit inside each nugget. Meanwhile, on the outside of each nugget you'll find "a thinner, crispier, panko-style breading" to offset all that gooey filling.

The look: In the shape of a ball, like Feel Good Foods Bites, but larger. The size leaves room for plenty of curvy noodles, which take on a pale yellow color.

The taste: Trader Joe's achieves the perfect ratio of breading to cheese to macaroni. These are also the first bites to wow me with their mac and cheese quality—probably all the different cheeses at work. The rich Gouda and Swiss stuck out to me, and each oozing pocket tastes buttery and luscious—just like a mac you would find at a high-end steakhouse. I wouldn't have been able to pinpoint that the breading was panko, but it is well-seasoned with tastes of garlic and a touch of salt.

The TJ's bites are good enough to eat plain, as I did. But, they would be even better dunked in marinara or some dressed-up ranch.

The post I Tried 6 Frozen Mac & Cheese Bites & the Best Was Buttery and Luscious appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
The 30 Unhealthiest Snacks on the Planet https://www.eatthis.com/unhealthy-snacks/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 21:19:27 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/unhealthy-snacks/ Anyone who has told you that snacking is "bad" is seriously mistaken. Eating a healthy...

The post The 30 Unhealthiest Snacks on the Planet appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Anyone who has told you that snacking is "bad" is seriously mistaken. Eating a healthy snack between meals that is full of protein, fiber, and helpful vitamins and antioxidants can be an amazing way to satisfy cravings and keep you from overeating on the unhealthy stuff. However, it's the unhealthy snacks that are highly processed and full of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat that can leave you feeling hungrier than before and can potentially derail your health goals.

The purpose of snacking is to satisfy your hunger in between meals, giving your body a nutrient-dense pick-me-up during the morning or afternoon hours. Eating protein-heavy snacks can reduce hunger levels and appetite, and those that are heavy on fiber can fill you up by slowing down the rate of digestion. When you opt for snack items that don't come with enough fiber or protein, more often than not,  you're left hungry and unsatisfied, which not only defeats the purpose of snacking in the first place but can also ultimately trigger overeating. In addition to lacking fiber and protein, many unhealthy snacks may also contain lots of sodium and added sugars, which we all know can be a disservice to your body, especially when consumed in excess. But what are some of the unhealthiest snacks you'd commonly find at the grocery store and are better off avoiding?

Ensuring your snack breaks leave you satisfied and with a full, happy belly means also knowing how to identify and weed out the unhealthiest ones that you'll want to limit if not completely avoid. Read on to find out which unhealthy snacks we believe aren't worth your time or digestive energy—then, for some healthier snack inspiration, check out 50 Healthiest Weight Loss Snacks on Grocery Shelves.

Cheetos Flamin' Hot Tangy Chili Fusion

bag of Cheetos Flamin' Hot on a white background

Nutrition (Per 21 chips): 170 calories, 10 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 200 mg sodium, 19 g carbs (1 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 1 g protein

In looking at the nutrition information, these Cheetos Flamin' Hot Tangy Chili Fusion snacks may not seem all that bad at first, but after a closer look at their ingredients list, you'll see that this cheesy snack uses Red 40 Lake and Yellow 5 Lake, two dyes that were mentioned previously as having adverse health outcomes linked to them.

Not to mention that even without these artificial colorings, you're still consuming a snack that has barely any fiber or protein, which we know by now just won't cut it when it comes to finding a satiating, filling snack.

Ritz Bits Cheese Sandwich Crackers

box of Ritz crackers on a white background

Nutrition (Per 13 sandwiches): 160 calories, 9 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 160 mg sodium, 19 g carbs (0 g fiber, 4 g sugar), 2 g protein

"These little sandwich snacks barely contain any protein and are lacking fiber," says Lisa Young, Ph.D., RDN, author of Finally Full, Finally Slim and member of our Medical Expert Board. "This makes it a very low-protein and low-fiber snack while being high in fat." In other words, it won't fill you up or leave you genuinely satisfied.

RELATED: 16 Healthy Store-Bought Crackers, According to Dietitians

Snyder's Hot Buffalo Wing Pretzel Pieces

Snyder's pretzel pieces

Nutrition (Per 1/3 cup): 140 calories, 7 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 380 mg sodium, 17 g carbs (1 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein

If you're craving a salty pretzel snack, you may want to steer clear of Snyder's Hot Buffalo Wing Pretzel Pieces. "Choosing this snack would be the opposite of choosing a nutrient-dense one," says Young. "These are very low in protein and fiber, which helps to keep you full and satiated for longer periods. Moreover, these pretzel bites are also relatively high in fat, with 3 grams being from the saturated kind."

Kellogg's Frosted Strawberry Poptarts

strawberry pop tarts

Nutrition (Per 2 pastries): 370 calories, 9 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 320 mg sodium, 70 g carbs (1 g fiber, 30 g sugar), 3 g protein

"Pop-Tarts have been around for a while and are a popular breakfast choice for individuals who are short on time," says Young. "However, this is one of the worst snack choices you can make in terms of your health." Not only is this snack high in sodium and low in fiber and protein, but Young adds that "Kellogg's Pop-Tarts contain ultra-processed ingredients such as soybean oil and refined flour, and contain three different types of sugar: refined white sugar, corn syrup, and high-fructose corn syrup."

Doritos Nacho Cheese

doritos

Nutrition (Per 12 chips): 150 calories, 8 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 210 mg sodium, 18 g carbs (1 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 1 g protein

A classic favorite among many, Doritos Nachos Cheese chips are better eaten in moderation, as they'll fill you up on sodium and little to no nutrients at all. "Doritos are typically high in calories, fat, and sodium, and the Nacho Cheese flavor specifically contains artificial flavors and preservatives," says Mary Sabat MS, RDN, LD.

Fritos Chili Cheese Corn Chips

fritos chili cheese

Nutrition (Per 31 chips): 160 calories, 10 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 210 mg sodium, 16 g carbs (1 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 2 g protein

You guessed it, only 2 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber puts this snack on our list of unhealthy, non-filling snacks. Beyond just the lack of nutrients, Fritos Chili Cheese Corn Chips also lists maltodextrin as one of its first few ingredients. This additive can be found in many ultra-processed foods and has been linked to negatively altering your gut microbiome.

RELATED: 9 Healthiest Snacks You Can Buy at Costco Right Now

Gushers

yellow box of Gushers on a white background

Nutrition (Per 1 pouch): 80 calories, 1 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 40 mg sodium, 18 g carbs (0 g fiber, 10 g sugar), 0 g protein

Although Gushers will quickly satisfy a sweet tooth, this nostalgic treat has 10 grams of added sugar and zero grams of fiber or protein, meaning it won't fill you up in the slightest.

This snack food also uses artificial dyes like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5 & 6. These dyes have been linked to neurobehavioral complications in children, and long-term consumption of Red 40 has recently been linked to ulcerative colitis—chronic inflammation of the colon. In other words, it's best to stay away from these artificial dyes when you can.

Little Debbie Double Decker Oatmeal Creme Pies

package of Little Debbie oatmeal creme pie on a white background

Nutrition (Per 1 cookie): 500 calories, 19 g fat (9 g saturated fat), 450 mg sodium, 78 g carbs (2 g fiber, 40 g sugar), 4 g protein

Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies are already infamous for being a delicious snack loaded with sugar, but their "Double Decker" Oatmeal Creme Pies are even worse. Loaded with a massive 40 grams of added sugar and only 2 grams of fiber to help slow digestion, this snack can quickly spike your blood sugar and leave you still feeling hungry.

Another thing to consider with this handheld sweet treat is that it's fairly high in saturated fat at 9 grams per serving. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends limiting your consumption to around 13 grams for better heart health, but snacks like these get you close to your limit without factoring in the rest of the food you'll eat during the day.

Hot Pockets

hot pockets

Nutrition (Per sandwich): 320 calories, 15 g fat (6 g saturated fat), 660 mg sodium, 36 g carbs (1 g fiber, 5 g sugar), 11 g protein

"Hot Pockets are convenient, but [they] typically contain processed meats, refined grains, high levels of sodium, and unhealthy fats," says Sabat.

Even though these items are often enjoyed as a midday snack, they are loaded with saturated fat and 660 milligrams of sodium, which is almost 30% of your recommended sodium limit for an entire day.

Hostess Twinkies

hostess twinkies

Nutrition (Per 2 cakes): 280 calories, 9 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 370 mg sodium, 47 g carbs (0 g fiber, 32 g sugar), 2 g protein

No one should be surprised to see Twinkies on our list, as these sugar bombs are a notoriously unhealthy snack choice.

"Twinkies contain partially hydrogenated oils, which are a source of trans fats, and they lack nutritional value," says Sabat.

These processed cakes also come with a whopping 32 grams of added sugar and absolutely no fiber to help slow down your body's absorption of the sugar. This can cause spikes in your blood sugar, and the lack of protein will leave you feeling hungry and craving more.

Little Debbie Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

box of Little Debbie Mini Muffins on a white background

Nutrition (Per 1 package): 190 calories, 8 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 180 mg sodium, 27 g carbs (1 g fiber, 18 g sugar), 2 g protein

As we mentioned previously, snacks that are lacking in fiber and protein won't keep you feeling satisfied until your next meal, and these Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins from Little Debbie are the perfect example of this. Of course, this sweet treat will taste delicious, but you'll still feel hungry after snacking on it.

RELATED: 5 Healthiest Muffins at the Grocery Store—and 6 To Avoid

Lay's Sour Cream & Onion Chips

Lay's Sour Cream & Onion

Nutrition (Per 17 chips): 160 calories, 10 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 200 mg sodium, 15 g carbs (1 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 2 g protein

Another tempting snack to munch on for those who love a savory midafternoon break, but these Lay's Sour Cream & Onion Chips just won't do the job of providing a healthy snack. With only 1 gram of fiber and 2 grams of protein, you'll be left wanting more every time.

RELATED: The Unhealthiest Chips, According to Dietitians

Grandma's Chocolate Brownie Cookies

bag of Grandma's Chocolate Cookies on a white background

Nutrition (Per cookie): 190 calories, 8 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 135 mg sodium, 27 g carbs (2 g fiber, 14 g sugar), 2 g protein

A classic vending machine snack that many of us remember from childhood, Grandma's Chocolate Brownie Cookies provide a hefty amount of calories and added sugar. Another tricky characteristic of this snack is that a serving size is only one cookie but each package comes with two, making it significantly harder to stick to a serving.

Entenmenn's Plain Glazed Donut Holes

box of Entenmenn's donut holes on a white background

Nutrition (Per 4 pieces): 240 calories, 13 g fat (6 g saturated fat), 160 mg sodium, 28 g carbs (0 g fiber, 18 g sugar), 2 g protein

If you prefer a sweet snack over savory, you may love the sound of a few donut holes to satisfy the sugar cravings. When the sweet tooth hits, however, we suggest steering clear of snacks like Entenmenn's Plain Glazed Donut Holes. In just one serving of four donut holes you're getting 18 grams of sugar and zero grams of fiber, so this snack is likely to spike your blood sugar. It also doesn't contain enough fiber or protein to help it stick, so you'll be left just as hungry as before.

Snack Pack Chocolate Vanilla Pudding

snack pack chocolate pudding

Nutrition (Per pudding cup): 180 calories, 3.5 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 190 mg sodium, 34 g carbs (2 g fiber, 22 g sugar), 2 g protein

"The Snack Pack Pudding is definitely a snack to leave in the grocery store and avoid bringing home, as it contains a plethora of unclean and highly processed ingredients," says Young. "This item is also a very low-protein, low-fiber, and high-sugar snack, and foods that don't have a lot of protein or fiber contribute to hunger, as they don't contain many—if any nutrients at all." Young also adds that "this pudding snack contains processed oils such as palm oil, which is 50% saturated fat."

Nutella

nutella

Nutrition (Per tablespoon): 200 calories, 12 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 15 mg sodium, 21 g carbs (0 g fiber, 21 g sugar), 2 g protein

Most everyone loves a spoonful (or three) of Nutella, but this is considered one of the most unhealthy snacks due to its extremely high sugar content in such a small serving size. "This chocolate hazelnut spread is made mostly with sugar and palm oil, which is extremely processed," says Young. "A one-tablespoon serving of Nutella is about 21 grams of sugar, and the protein and fiber content is very low, which is the opposite of a fulfilling snack." The problem with Nutella is that because it's tasty yet devoid of significant nutritional value is because it's difficult to limit yourself to a serving size—before long, the whole jar is gone.

Oreos

oreos

Nutrition (Per 3 cookies): 160 calories, 7 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 135 mg sodium, 25 g carbs (1 g fiber, 14 g sugar), 1 g protein

"Each Oreo cookie contains a significant amount of refined sugar, contributing to potential health issues such as weight gain, diabetes, and tooth decay," says Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD at Balance One Supplements. "Additionally, Oreos are made with partially hydrogenated oils, which are a source of trans fats known to increase the risk of heart disease, and high-fructose corn syrup, an artificial sweetener that has been linked to various health problems when consumed in excess."

Cheetos

cheetos puffs

Nutrition (Per 13 pieces): 160 calories, 10 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 270 mg sodium, 16 g carbs (<1 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 2 g protein

Another popular snack to be wary of is classic Cheetos Puffs, an item full of cheesy flavor—yet incredibly low in fiber and protein.

"Cheetos are considered one of the most unhealthy snacks primarily due to their unhealthy fats, sodium, and artificial additives," says Best. Unfortunately, regularly eating snacks high in sodium can elevate your daily sodium intake, which in turn can lead to "increased blood pressure and increased risk of heart problems," she adds.

Chips Ahoy! Original Chocolate Chip Cookies

chips ahoy

Nutrition (Per 3 cookies): 160 calories, 8 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 105 mg sodium, 22 g carbs (1 g fiber, 11 g sugar), 1 g protein

A classic chocolate chip cookie is certainly a comforting snack, but you're better off ditching this sugary item that will ultimately leave you feeling hungrier and with more cravings.

"Chips Ahoy! Chocolate Chip Cookies are considered an unhealthy snack, largely due to their high sugar and unhealthy fat content, as well as their ingredient list, which includes partially hydrogenated oils—a source of trans fats," says Best. "Ultimately, consuming these cookies in moderation is recommended to minimize the negative health effects associated with their ingredients."

Crunchy Cheetos

Small bag of Cheetos

Nutrition (Per 21 pieces): 160 calories, 10 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 250 mg sodium, 15 g carbs (<1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 2 g protein

Similar to the puffy kind, Cheetos Crunchy Cheese-Flavored Snacks also make the list of unhealthy snacks because they're high in sodium and very low in fiber and protein.

"They're also high in calories and artificial additives, which have been associated with adverse health effects," adds Sabat. For instance, they contain Yellow Dye 6, which has been found to potentially contain cancer-causing contaminants.

Lay's Classic Potato Chips

Lay's classic chip

Nutrition (Per 15 chips): 160 calories, 10 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 170 mg sodium, 15 g carbs (1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 2 g protein

When you're craving a salty snack, there's nothing like opening a fresh bag of Lay's Classic Potato Chips. Unfortunately, these may not be your best choice, as only 15 chips will give you 10 grams of fat, no fiber, and hardly any protein.

"These chips are also loaded with sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in excess," says Sabat.

RELATED: 6 Healthiest Potato Chips—and 4 To Avoid, According to Dietitians

Hostess HoHos

box of HoHos on a white background

Nutrition (Per 3 cakes): 380 calories, 20 g fat (13 g saturated fat), 300 mg sodium, 52 g carbs (1 g fiber, 40 g sugar), 2 g protein

These nostalgic chocolate cake treats provide the same complications as the Little Debbie snacks. Hostess HoHos have 40 grams of sugar per serving with hardly any fiber or protein to back them up, as well as your daily limit of saturated fat in one snack.

Hostess Apple Pie

box of Hostess Apple Pie on a white background

Nutrition (Per 4 pies): 410 calories, 15 g fat (8 g saturated fat), 460 mg sodium, 64 g carbs (1 g fiber, 25 g sugar), 3 g protein

You can probably spot the pattern by now: ultra-processed sweet treats like the ones from Little Debbie or Hostess are more often than not going to be considered "unhealthy snacks" because of their high added sugar content and low levels of protein and fiber. Snacks like these Hostess Apple Pie fit the bill and won't satisfy your hunger and cravings in the way a healthy, nutrient-dense snack can.

RELATED: 10 Unhealthiest Store-Bought Cookie Doughs To Avoid

Lay's Barbecue Potato Chips

lay's bbq chips

Nutrition (Per 15 chips): 150 calories, 9 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 150 mg sodium, 16 g carbs (1 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 2 g protein

If you're a fan of the Barbecue flavor of Lay's potato chips, be warned that although this snack is delicious, it won't do anything for your health goals. For a small serving size of only 15 chips, it still packs in 150 calories, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, and 150 milligrams of sodium. With a tiny amount of fiber and protein, it definitely won't leave you feeling satisfied, meaning you'll either eat far beyond the portion size or grab an additional snack anyway.

Keebler E.L. Fudge Elfwich

e.l. fudge keebler

Nutrition (Per 2 cookies): 180 calories, 9 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat), 100 mg sodium, 24 g carbs (1 g fiber, 13 g sugar), 2 g protein

Whether it's crackers or sweet treats, the Keebler elves are known for delivering delicious snacks. However, these elves won't help you in terms of nutrition, especially with the E.L. Fudge Elfwiches. At first glance, the nutrition facts may not seem all that terrible, but the serving size only includes two small cookies, and how can that possibly be a satisfying snack? Most people will end up eating a few serving sizes of this snack, which will cause them to rack up their added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium content.

Orville Redenbacher's Pour Over Movie Theater Butter Popcorn

orville redenbacher's pour over popcorn

Nutrition (Per serving): 180 calories, 14 g fat (4.5 g saturated fat), 330 mg sodium, 15 g carbs (3 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein

Popcorn is an obvious choice for movie night snacks, especially the microwavable kind that can be ready in seconds. However, some options are worse than others when it comes to nutritional value (or lack thereof), and Orville Redenbacher's Pour Over Movie Theater Butter is one of the worst. Popcorn has the potential to be a healthy snack, but this particular item comes packed with 330 milligrams of sodium and 4.5 grams of saturated fat, leaving you no wiggle room to overindulge.

RELATED: 11 Healthiest Microwave Popcorn Brands—and 7 You Should Avoid

Clif Bar Chocolate Brownie

chocolate brownie clif bar

Nutrition (Per bar): 150 calories, 6 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 180 mg sodium, 43 g carbs (5 g fiber, 17 g sugar), 10 g protein

The tricky thing about Clif Bars is that they're advertised as protein bars you can eat as a snack, but since they're loaded up with sugar, they're really only helpful if you're going to have an intense workout. But if you're just looking for a protein-heavy snack for your midday work break, you'll want to choose something much lower in sugar and sodium.

RELATED: 10 Unhealthiest Protein Bars To Avoid

Starburst Gummies

starburst gummies

Nutrition (Per 7 pieces): 90 calories, 0 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 0 mg sodium, 22 g carbs (0 g fiber, 18 g sugar), 1 g protein

Those in the mood for a sweet snack they can pop in their mouth may be tempted by Starburst Gummies, but with a teeny tiny serving size of only 7 pieces, you're still loading your body up with 18 grams of sugar and only a single gram of protein, meaning you'll be hungrier and have even more cravings than when before you started.

Nutrigrain Strawberry

nutrigrain strawberry

Nutrition (Per 1 bar):
Calories: 130
Fat: 3.5 g (Saturated Fat: 0.5 g)
Sodium: 140 mg
Carbs: 25 g (Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 12 g)
Protein: 2 g

Nutrigrain Bars can be a bit of a disappointment because they're often marketed as a tasty granola bar you can enjoy as a snack. But with 12 grams of sugar, along with only one gram of fiber and two grams of protein, nothing about this bar will leave you feeling satiated, not to mention the epic novel-length ingredient list, which includes preservatives, corn syrup, and other additives.

Little Debbie Nutty Buddy Snack Bar

Nutty buddy

We had to throw one Little Debbie snack on this list, although most of their items could certainly be placed under the label of unhealthy snacks. The Nutty Buddy bars come with a whopping 9 grams of saturated fat and 22 grams of sugar, and even though these bars are filed under "snack bars" on the Little Debbie website, these nutrition facts scream nothing but a glorified dessert on the go.

Nutrition (Per 1 cookie):
Calories: 330
Fat: 20 g (Saturated Fat: 9 g)
Sodium: 125 mg
Carbs: 34 g (Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 22 g)
Protein: 4 g

This story has been updated since its original publish date to include additional entries and remove outdated information.

The post The 30 Unhealthiest Snacks on the Planet appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Reese's Is Rolling Out a Gooey New Bite-Sized Snack https://www.eatthis.com/reeses-cluster-bites/ Thu, 22 Feb 2024 19:05:49 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=786448 When you're craving chocolate and peanut butter, there are few options as satisfying as a...

The post Reese's Is Rolling Out a Gooey New Bite-Sized Snack appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
When you're craving chocolate and peanut butter, there are few options as satisfying as a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. Now, the popular candy brand is expanding its selection of treats with a new snackable product: Cluster Bites.

Available in seven-ounce pouches, this new candy features creamy peanut butter, smooth caramel, and crunchy peanuts covered in chocolate. A brand representative confirmed that Reese's Cluster Bites will be available in stores nationwide starting tomorrow, Feb. 23. Reese's fans can also purchase the product on the Hershey's website, which sells the candy for $5.99, excluding shipping.

RELATED: Chocolate Could Get Even More Expensive In 2024—Here's Why

reese's cluster bites

Over the past few days, multiple social media users announced the launch of the new Cluster Bites, including the food-focused Instagram account @snackolator. The social media user likened the product to Reese's NutRageous candy bar bites since the bar also features milk chocolate, peanuts, peanut butter, and caramel.

According to Snackolator, Reese's Cluster Bites have already been spotted at Walmart. Within the comments section of the Instagram user's post, many Reese's fans expressed their excitement about the new candy release.

"Omg I have to get these," one commenter wrote. "Bag demolished within five minutes!" another one added.

RELATED: 20 Chocolate Brands That Use the Highest Quality Ingredients

The Cluster Bites aren't the only new Reese's products to hit stores over the last few months. In November, the brand debuted its Reese's Caramel Big Cup. Available in standard and king sizes, this candy pairs a layer of gooey caramel with the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter.

Around the same time, Hershey's unveiled its chocolate-covered frozen fruit line, which includes Reese's Frozen Fruit Banana Slices. First available at Walmart, these frozen treats recently made their way into Costco warehouses.

Reese's fans can also get their chocolate peanut butter fix at Nothing Bundt Cakes, which is offering its Reese's Chocolate Peanut Butter Bundt Cake until Feb. 25 while supplies last. Customers can order this dessert in a few different sizes, including 8- and 10-inch bundt cakes, personal-sized "bundlets," and bite-sized "bundtinis."

The post Reese's Is Rolling Out a Gooey New Bite-Sized Snack appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Costco Shoppers Can't Get Enough of the This 'Dangerous' Snack https://www.eatthis.com/costco-turtle-chips/ Tue, 20 Feb 2024 16:33:14 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=785670 If you're searching for grocery list inspiration, there's no better place to look than to...

The post Costco Shoppers Can't Get Enough of the This 'Dangerous' Snack appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
If you're searching for grocery list inspiration, there's no better place to look than to the shoppers themselves. For Costco members seeking a sweet snack, there's one item that has been generating recent buzz among customers: Turtle Chips.

Sold under the brand Orion, this Korean snack features four crunchy layers that resemble a turtle's shell, presenting a texture similar to Bugles, the cone-shaped corn snack. The product line features a range of flavors, and Costco currently offers the chocolate churro variety.

Across Reddit, shoppers have been creating posts dedicated to this item, with one customer recently starting a thread entitled "Whoever said not to get them, you were probably right." The user added, "I'm about to eat the whole bag."

a collage of costco orion turtle chips on a colorful red and yellow designed background

RELATED: 25 Best New Costco Snacks to Try in 2024, According to Shoppers

The Reddit thread has since racked up nearly 140 comments, with numerous Costco customers sharing similar sentiments about the turtle shell-shaped snack.

"Yup ate half a bag in one sitting. These are dangerous," one Reddit user wrote.

"They're SO good," another one added. "I keep eating them with a glass of milk and I'm so tempted to just pour them into a bowl and eat it like cereal."

Other shoppers have described these chips as "big Cocoa Puffs" and "big chocolatey Cinnamon Toast Crunch."

Meanwhile, several Redditors expressed their preference for other Turtle Chip flavors, such as vanilla, corn soup, seaweed, and spicy. As multiple people pointed out, customers can purchase these other options at Asian grocery stores like H Mart.

Whoever said not to get them, you were probably right.
byu/itsaGGmyfriend inCostco

 

RELATED: 12 Best Winter Bakery Items at Costco Right Now

The chocolate churro-flavored Turtle Chips aren't the only sweet snacks at Costco that have been sparking notable customer commentary. Over the past month, Costco shoppers have been taking to social media to share their thoughts on Reese's Frozen Fruit Banana Slices, with the item eliciting both positive and negative reviews.

Available in 1.25-pound bags, this product consists of frozen bananas covered in milk chocolate and Reese's peanut butter chips. The item made its official debut at Walmart last fall as part of Hershey's chocolate-covered frozen fruit line, which includes three other products

The post Costco Shoppers Can't Get Enough of the This 'Dangerous' Snack appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
I Tried 8 Popular Trader Joe's Dips & the Best Was Garlicky Bliss https://www.eatthis.com/trader-joes-dips-taste-test/ Sun, 11 Feb 2024 14:00:47 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=783198 There are endless reasons why people can't get enough of Trader Joe's and why it...

The post I Tried 8 Popular Trader Joe's Dips & the Best Was Garlicky Bliss appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
There are endless reasons why people can't get enough of Trader Joe's and why it stands as America's current favorite grocery chain, according to a recent study. One area where the store excels in particular is the snack department.

You can always find classic munchies on the shelf, such as the award-winning Chili Lime Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips and Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels Nuggets. Seasonal goodies are constantly being debuted or re-released. But it's not all crunchy. Trader Joe's also carries a star-studded lineup of scoopable and spreadable dips.

Some dips are veggie-packed, and others boast a very simplified ingredient list. Some are health-conscious, and many are dairy-free and vegan. A few are spicy, while others are sweet. Each has a unique flavor profile and fan base. But, when pitted against one another, which one wins out as the most delicious and divine dip of all? Let's find out in the ultimate Trader Joe's dip showdown.

Everything and the Elote Greek Style Yogurt Dip

trader joe's everythng and elote dip

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 60 calories, 4 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 170 mg sodium, 4 g carbs (0 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 1 g protein

I didn't even know what elote was a couple of years ago, and now it seems that elote-flavored foods are taking over. If you're behind on the trend, the Spanish word refers to a Mexican street food: corn on the cob smothered in some mayo or white sauce and covered in chili powder, cheese, and lime juice. It's unbelievably delicious.

Of course, Trader Joe's wasted no time in jumping on the fad. Thus, Everything and the Elote Seasoning Blend and its buddy Everything and the Elote Greek Style Yogurt Dip were born. Both generated a lot of buzz when they debuted in 2021. For my first time giving the dip a go, I picked up an 8-ounce container for $3.79.

The look: Less lumpy than anticipated. I expected a large population of yellow kernels in a Mexican corn dip, but I barely saw any. The dip is a smooth, peach-colored spread with plenty of seasoning.

The taste: The Southwest chili powder flavor is overpowering. It's not spicy but extremely robust. It took me a couple of bites to grow accustomed to it. Beyond that, I couldn't get past the lack of corn in the tub. Without the kernels, the dip boils down to yogurt with seasonings, as the cheese taste is difficult to pinpoint. I was excited for this one, but it was a bit of a letdown. It made me pine for Costco's Rojo's Street Corn Dip–a much tastier elote-inspired alternative, in my opinion.

RELATED: I Tried 9 Trader Joe's Wines Under $15—& One Was Worth Every Penny

Spinach & Kale Greek Yogurt Dip

Trader Joe's spinach dip

PER Serving (2 TBSP): 30 calories, 2 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 150 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (<1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 1 g protein

Next up is the veggie-packed Spinach & Kale Dip—not to be confused with the Spinach & Artichoke Dip, which is the chain's current Customer Choice Award-winner in the appetizer category.

While the kale version isn't as decorated as the artichoke dip, it is still a highly sought-after choice. It's also one of the healthiest, with a low-fat Greek yogurt base and core good-for-you ingredients, including water chestnuts, red peppers, carrots, green onions, and the aforementioned greens. All this adds up to just 30 calories per serving for a more guilt-free snacking experience. The 16-ounce container cost me $4.49.

The look: Exceptionally chunky and thick. The container is overflowing with various shapes and sizes of leafy green vegetables, and bell peppers can be seen from the top.

The taste: Just a few spuds away from being a potato salad. With the dip's creamy nature—from both the yogurt and mayonnaise—mixed with green onions and a very prominent dill flavor, that's all I could think of as I munched. Otherwise, it does earn my respect for being fresh and offering diverse veggies. I enjoyed the crunch from the carrots, peppers, and especially the water chestnuts—an underrated vegetable I don't have often enough.

Everything but the Bagel Greek Style Yogurt Dip

trader joe's everything but the bagel dip

PER 2 TBSP: 60 calories, 5 g fat (2.5 g saturated fat), 115 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 1 g protein

Trader Joe's Everything But the Bagel Seasoning came out in 2017, sparking an all-out frenzy. Not only did consumers begin sprinkling the blend over anything and everything, but the chain itself also went a bit bonkers, rolling out more and more "everything" products since. Everything But the Bagel crackers, chips, nuts, and smoked salmon now exist in addition to this yogurt-based dip at the store. It felt fitting to include this 8-ounce byproduct as part of my haul for $3.79.

The look: The foundation is as described: Greek yogurt. Sesame and poppy seeds are mixed in, but the quantity is scanty.

The taste: Underwhelming. I could tell by looking that there wasn't enough Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. The seeds, dried onion, and dried garlic that were present lacked crunch—presumably from being buried in the dip. I would have added a few more shakes on top if I had a bottle of the blend in my spice cabinet. Without this extra dose of flavor, though, the dip dissolves into more of an upscale, healthier version of cream cheese. As such, I think it would make a great alternative to smear on a bagel. But to stand out in the dip department, more character is needed.

RELATED: 11 Best Trader Joe's Seasoning Blends, According to Customers

Crunchy Chili Onion Hummus

Trader Joe's Crunchy Chili Onion Hummus[

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 80 calories, 4.5 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 115 mg sodium, 4 g carbs (1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 2 g protein

When it comes to hummus, the quirky market has options out the wazoo. Organic, Mediterranean Style, Cilantro and Jalapeño, Roasted Garlic, Dill Pickle, and Chocolate are just a sampling, with Trader Joe's most recent concoction being the Crunchy Chili Onion Hummus. This product marries the store's Crunchy Chili Onion sauce—made with dried onion, garlic, red bell peppers, and chili peppers—with a traditional, creamy hummus. It is a promising combo, but do these two rights add up to something even more incredible? I grabbed a 10-ounce tub for $3.99 to find out.

The look: The Crunchy Chili Onion is confined to a small crater in the center. It looks fiery in a shade of crimson red. Juice from the sauce dribbles out over the oatmeal-colored hummus, making the entire bowl look oily, especially around the edges.

The taste: Similar to a roasted red pepper hummus but with the heat cranked up. The mild and neutral hummus base helps offset the spice from the Crunchy Chili Onion and absorbs some extra liquid as it's mixed together.

It achieves a nice balance. But there's something missing from this dip: crispness. That's the biggest draw of the Crunchy Chili Onion sauce. The word "crunchy" is in the name, but just like the seasoning in the Everything but the Bagel Dip, all that snap is lost when the hummus comes into play.

Truffle Dip

trader joe's truffle dip

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 60 calories, 6 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 110 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 2 g protein

If you're looking for something more frou-frou at Trader Joe's, why not try the Truffle Dip? Being made from one of the world's most expensive foods should qualify as a delicacy. That also means it comes with an inflated price tag of $5.49 for 7.5 ounces—the costliest dip on the shelf. In addition to a merger of both white truffle-infused olive oil and a black truffle base, its recipe includes cream cheese, light cream, ricotta, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.

The look: Off-white in color—I expected a slight grey or brown tinge—and speckled with black bits from the truffle and pepper.

The taste: It took me a while to decide what kind of chip or other food to pair it with, and I think I still made the wrong choice, but c'est la vie. As I considered my options, the dip's earthy truffle aroma permeated the air around me. Thankfully, the taste was more subtle and not too fungi-like. It's a mix of decadent richness with an umami punch. My advice would be to eat the buttery dip spread on a sandwich, add it to mac and cheese, or use it as part of another kind of recipe, though. I imagine it would get old fast when eaten as a straight dip.

RELATED: Trader Joe's Just Revealed How New Products Get Approved

Caramelized Onion Dip

trader joe's caramelized onion dip

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 70 calories, 6 g fat (2.5 g saturated fat), 230 mg sodium, 3 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), <1 g protein

If you're a fan of French onion soup, you'll love caramelized onion dip. It's a creamy, snackable version of the staple dish, and you can find it at Trader Joe's. The chain's rendition consists of onions cooked down in butter and balsamic vinegar until they're, well, caramelized. Then, a trifecta of sour cream, cream cheese, and mayonnaise are thrown in, along with vegetable base, oil, and seasonings. Brown sugar and regular sugar are included, too. This medley of flavors has a price tag of $3.79 for 10 ounces. If you're lactose intolerant, don't worry. You can still get in on the action with the vegan replica of the dip.

The look: Thick and packed full of onion pieces. It comes in a shade of light ivory to yellow.

The taste: Savory and sweet with crunchy onions in every bite. I've had versions of onion dip before that have just been sour cream-based. This one provides more depth and richness with the sugars, mayo, and cream cheese. Plus, the onions taste fresh and maintain their texture rather than just being dried or dehydrated. When paired with a salty but neutral companion like potato chips or pretzels, this dip is highly addictive—you've been warned.

Sweet Cannoli Dip

trader joe's sweet cannoli dip

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 100 calories, 6 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat), 55 mg sodium, 10 g carbs (0 g fiber, 9 g sugar), 2 g protein

Entering the ring as the only dessert-style dip is Sweet Cannoli. This sweet spread imitates the cream inside the tube-shaped Italian pastry. As such, it's made from a few simple ingredients, including cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream. Despite its classification as more of a confection than an appetizer, you can find it among Trader Joe's dip options, priced at $3.99 for 8 ounces.

The look: The best way I can describe its appearance is like a bowl of melted vanilla ice cream. 'Nuff said.

The taste: Like liquified cheesecake or a divine fusion of cream cheese and marshmallow fluff. It reminds me of a fruit dip rather than a cannoli filling. If you can look past that, it's a delectable dip. I had to resist the urge to spoon it into my mouth directly. The consistency is thicker than yogurt and loosens up a bit as you stir. I enjoyed it with some Ritz crackers. I plan to pair it with the Trader Joe's Belgian Butter Waffle Cookies next time and bring some mini chocolate chips into the fold, too.

RELATED: 10 Most Popular Items Trader Joe's Discontinued in 2023

Garlic Spread Dip

trader joe's garlic spread dip

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 150 calories, 15 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 110 mg sodium, 4 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), <1 g protein

According to Trader Joe's, this spread was inspired by a Middle Eastern recipe known as toum–the Arabic word for garlic. I expected it to contain sour cream, cream cheese, yogurt, or mayo to achieve its creaminess. My assumption was wrong. It's made from garlic, lemon, canola oil, and salt, all whipped together until they morph into a cohesive, spreadable dip. Can you imagine how many garlic cloves it takes to form an 8-ounce tub for $3.69?

No matter how it's made or where it comes from, TJ's shoppers are head over heels for the bold spread. One fan on Reddit even went so far as to say their entire life revolves around it. After hearing that sentiment, I had no choice but to include it in the taste test.

The look: Off-white and somewhere between clumpy and fluffy. It shares many similarities to whipped ricotta or feta cheese.

The taste: Slightly acidic from the lemons, but the rest is smooth, garlicky heaven. I didn't imagine something so potent and purely garlic could be delicious, but Trader Joe's proved me wrong. I paired it with basic chips, but it would shine alongside French fries if you go the dipping route. It could be slathered onto nearly any food—from bread to pizza to sandwiches—and it would be delicious every time. A little goes a long way, and the garlic stench on your breath may linger, but that's a sacrifice you'll be happy to make.

The post I Tried 8 Popular Trader Joe's Dips & the Best Was Garlicky Bliss appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
The 15 Best Super Bowl Snacks To Score at Trader Joe's https://www.eatthis.com/trader-joes-best-super-bowl-snacks-2024/ Wed, 07 Feb 2024 13:00:21 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=782588 As the Super Bowl nears, it's time to start thinking about one of the biggest...

The post The 15 Best Super Bowl Snacks To Score at Trader Joe's appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
As the Super Bowl nears, it's time to start thinking about one of the biggest factors of game day: the food. For some, the snacks are as anticipated as the matchup itself. The best table spreads have a wide selection of convenient, tasty, and shareable finger foods for maximum enjoyment and minimal mess.

No place does tasty, convenient appetizers quite like Trader Joe's. Known for its extensive selection of unique premade foods, the innovative grocer offers a winning roster of appetizers to make your Super Bowl party a culinary touchdown. We've scoured the aisles to find the picks everyone will love—and you'll need only minutes to prepare.

Whether you're there for the football or just in it for the food, you won't be disappointed by these 15 easy, fun, and delicious game-approved bites that run from savory to sweet.

Jalapeño & Cream Cheese Crispy Wontons

trader joe's jalapeño & cream cheese crispy wontons

PER SERVING (5 PIECES): 300 cal, 19 g fat (9 g saturated fat), 460 mg sodium, 27 g carbs (3 g fiber, 3 g sugar), 6 g protein

The game will be heating up as soon as you pass around these Jalapeño & Cream Cheese Crispy Wontons. It's not a jalapeño popper, but it's similar. This vegetarian-friendly Trader Joe's snack invention is the right amount of spicy and savory, with cream cheese and Parmesan plus hot jalapeño pieces in a crispy wonton pocket. They come 12 to a box and are ready after 10 minutes in the oven so that you can cook up a tray at halftime. Take a few boxes of this flavorful finger food to the festivities for $4.99 each.

RELATED: 14 Best & Worst Frozen Appetizers You Can Buy, Say Dietitians

Shrimp Boom Bah

trader joe's shrimp boom bah

PER SERVING (1/4 PACKAGE): 370 cal, 30 g fat (5 g saturated fat), 840 mg sodium, 14 g carbs (3 g fiber, 4 g sugar), 10 g protein

You can be the talk of the table with these spicy breaded shrimp, courtesy of the island-themed grocer. It's a twist on Bang Bang Shrimp: floured and battered seafood paired with a sweet chili sauce to pack some heat. Experienced TJ's customers highly recommend preparing these in the air fryer—otherwise, you may taste some batter residue on these prepared prawns. This one-pound box serves four and costs less than a restaurant appetizer at $8.99.

Ratatouille Bites

trader joe's ratatouille bites

PER SERVING (4 PIECES): 130 cal, 7 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 400 mg sodium, 16 g carbs (2 g fiber, 3 g sugar), 2 g protein

You're just in time to catch these fancy appetizers on their way out, so buy a few boxes for the football showdown. The Ratatouille Bites are panko-crusted fried balls full of traditional vegetables—eggplant, bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and tomatoes—available only during the holidays. Fans say these bites are a huge hit. "I got these today and omg they're so delicious," said one customer in r/traderjoes. "I air fried half the package and I'm trying really hard to not eat the rest tonight." One box of the limited-time item goes for $4.49 and comes with 12 pieces.

RELATED: 9 Best Trader Joe's Appetizers, According to Our Editors

Mini Quiche Duo

trader joe's mini quiche duo

PER SERVING (4 QUICHES): 260 cal, 16 g fat (7 g saturated fat), 430 mg sodium, 21 g carbs (<1 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 8 g protein

For a classy game-day vibe, go with these seasonal mini quiches. You can take pride in your "baking skills" as you unbox these cute egg pastries and slip them into the oven for a few minutes to warm up. Expect two flavors in the $4.79 package, with six of each. You and your friends can alternate between Mushroom & Swiss Cheese and Uncured Bacon & Sweet Onion. That is, if you can still find the limited-time item in a nearby store.

Spring Rolls

trader joes chicken spring rolls

CHICKEN (1 ROLL): 100 cal, 4 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 260 mg sodium, 12 g carbs (5 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 5 g protein
VEGETABLE (1 ROLL): 100 cal, 5 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 200 mg sodium, 11 g carbs (2 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 5 g protein

It may be winter, but there's never a bad time for spring rolls. One of the best times is when you're feeding a crowd. Luckily, Trader Joe's has a selection for everyone—try Chicken Spring Rolls with ginger and garlic for your meat-eating friends and Vegetable Spring Rolls with tofu and edamame for your vegetarian pals. These crunchy, golden wraps should be essential to your finger-food feast. Each box costs $4.49 and comes with five rolls.

RELATED: I Tried 7 Popular Tortilla Chips & the Best Was Habit-Forming

Breaded Fried Ravioli

trader joe's breaded fried ravioli

PER SERVING (4 RAVIOLI): 240 cal, 10 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 630 mg sodium, 30 g carbs (2 g fiber, 3 g sugar), 7 g protein

Skip the mozz sticks and try the newfangled pasta bites that are just as cheesy and more memorable. Trader Joe's filled these semolina-flour ravioli with parmesan, asiago, mozzarella, ricotta, and Monterey Jack. They are breaded, fried, and then frozen—waiting for you to pick them up. As for dipping, your best bet is to warm up a bowl of herbaceous marinara sauce. A pound of this unconventional pasta is just $3.99.

Buffalo Style Chicken Poppers

trader joes buffalo style chicken poppers

PER SERVING (3 PIECES): 240 cal, 11 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat), 380 mg sodium, 26 g carbs (1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 10 g protein

Can't get enough crispy wonton snacks? For something more protein-heavy, try these spicy Buffalo Style Chicken Poppers. They feature a mixture of cheeses and chicken pieces with a crunchy outer shell. They do best in the air fryer but can be warmed in the oven. Fair warning—these get fiery, so serve alongside a palate-cooler, like ranch dressing. The $5.49 package comes with around 15 pieces.

RELATED: I Tried 6 Store-Bought Salsas & the Best Was Chunky and Fresh Tasting

Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip

trader joe's creamy spinach & artichoke dip

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 40 cal, 3 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 125 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein

Trader Joe's created a top-of-the-line version of this appetizer favorite for those snackers who love a good spinach and artichoke dip but hate making it themselves. This one is in the freezer section, ready to be baked to a spreadable, gooey consistency. It's the perfect accompaniment for tortilla chips, crackers, or French bread. "The frozen dip is my life. I had to stop buying it. It's too good," raved one customer on Reddit. It costs $3.79 to impress your guests with this veggieful, cheesy appetizer.

Perfectly Pickled Pups

trader joes perfectly pickled pups

PER SERVING (4 PIECES): 250 cal, 15 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 850 mg sodium, 21 g carbs (2 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 7 g protein

For a tasty finger food, try these mini fried beef franks, brined with dill and spices to create a zesty, pickle-esque flavor. Fans of the long list of pickle products at Trader Joe's have no problems with this seemingly odd flavor combination. "SO. FLIPPING. GOOD. it's like you're eating a mustard and relish hot dog," commented a Reddit user about the pups. These are perfect on a toothpick next to the rest of your dips. The box comes with nine of the hors d'oeuvres for $4.99.

RELATED: The 25 Best Frozen Foods at Sam's Club Right Now

Spicy Uncured Charcuterie Selection

trader joe's spicy uncured charcuterie collection

PER SERVING (7 SLICES): 150 cal, 10 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat), 1030 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (<1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 12 g protein

If you want to get fancy with your Super Bowl snacks, go for TJ's curated spicy charcuterie assortment. The $8.99 package contains a handful of uncured coppa, sorpressa, and capocolla—each fermented, dried, and seasoned. Plus, there are plenty of private-label crackers, cheeses, and tidbits in the store to pair with these meats—endless possibilities.

Chevre with Honey

trader joe's chevre with honey goat's milk cheese

PER SERVING (1 OZ): 80 cal, 5 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat), 75 mg sodium, 4 g carbs (0 g fiber, 3 g sugar), 4 g protein

This fresh goat's milk cheese flavored with delicate notes of honey is a surefire way to amp up a cheese board. Chevre is traditionally earthy and tangy, but this one contains a hint of sweetness for balance. You'll want to eat this on everything—so make sure to plate this next to a healthy supply of bread, crackers, and fruit. This dreamy spread costs $3.29 for a 5-ounce log.

RELATED: 12 Best Sam's Club Comfort Foods to Stock Up On Right Now

Mini Samosas

Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Samosas

PER SERVING (4 PIECES): 160 cal, 7 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 260 mg sodium, 20 g carbs (2 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 4 g protein

When it's your team's turn to make a riveting play, who has time to think about food? Luckily, these Indian-inspired, bite-sized pastries are mindlessly poppable. Fans enjoy them for the crispy dough and the deliciously spicy filling. They come in two varieties: vegetable for $3.99 or chicken for $4.99.

Organic Elote Corn Chip Dippers

trader joe's organic elote corn chip dippers

PER SERVING (1 OZ): 150 cal, 8 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 115 mg sodium, 17 g carbs (1 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein

Sure, you could serve regular old tortilla chips—or, you can make the day more festive with these dippers flavored with the seasonings of Mexican street corn: elote. These addictive, crunchy snacks are like souped-up Fritos, with a spoon-like shape that's better for scooping than an ordinary triangle-shaped chip. Plus, everything you dip will get an extra kick from the chipotle and lime dust. A nearly 10-ounce bag of Organic Elote Corn Chip Dippers costs $2.69.

RELATED: The 14 Best Costco Super Bowl Snacks to Grab ASAP

Pizza Parlanno

trader joe's frozen pizza parlanno

PER SERVING (1/4 PIZZA): 330 cal, 16 g fat (6 g saturated fat), 620 mg sodium, 33 g carbs (<1 g fiber, 5 g sugar), 13 g protein

What would a Super Bowl spread be without pizza? It's an easy, delicious crowd-pleaser. There are tons of frozen pizzas to choose from at Trader Joe's, but many claim this frozen pie is the best to appear on the shelves over the past 15 years. Pizza Parlanno is a supreme pizza, densely packed with toppings, including Italian sausage, pepperoni, roasted peppers, and onions. For $5.49, it comes in at a sizable 18.2 ounces for ultimate shareability.

Chocolate Cheesecake Bites

trader joe's chocolate cheesecake bites

PER SERVING (1 PIECE): 70 cal, 4 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 55 mg sodium, 8 g carbs (0 g fiber, 5 g sugar), 1 g protein

No matter the outcome, you'll want a sweet treat to top off the evening. This mouthful of chocolate cheesecake with a cookie crumb crust is here to keep the party going or fill that hole in your heart. Take the box out of the freezer two hours before you serve them so they can thaw. Chocolate Cheesecake Bites are selling for $4.99 for 12 pieces and are available for a limited time only.

The post The 15 Best Super Bowl Snacks To Score at Trader Joe's appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
The 14 Best Costco Super Bowl Snacks to Grab ASAP https://www.eatthis.com/costco-best-super-bowl-snacks-2024/ Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:00:04 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=782279 It's that time of year when football takes center stage in a collision of arguably...

The post The 14 Best Costco Super Bowl Snacks to Grab ASAP appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
It's that time of year when football takes center stage in a collision of arguably the two best teams in the NFL for Super Bowl LVIII. Whether you are cheering for Kansas City or San Francisco or a Taylor Swift appearance is up to you, but pretty much everyone can agree at least two highlights of this annual showdown: the commercials and the snacks.

No matter if you're just there to catch a glimpse of Usher's halftime show, check out celeb cameos, or actually watch football, grazing while you do so is a must.

Costco is the ultimate one-stop shop for all of your Super Bowl snacking needs. From prepared foods to marinated meats, frozen goodies to dips galore, here are 14 items to pick up for your gathering. Costco also puts its TVs on sale right before the Super Bowl, so if you need a vessel for watching—the warehouse club has you covered there, too.

Kettle Brand Krinkle Cut Himalayan Salt Potato Chips

kirkland signature kettle brand krinkle cut himalayan salt potato chips

Per Serving (1 oz): 150 calories, 9 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 110 mg sodium, 15 g carbs (2 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein

Classic ridged potato chips are a must to pair with the plethora of dips that are bound to be a part of your gameday spread. These are a bit sturdier than your classic Ruffles and hold up well to any dunking. They are also delicious just on their own. You can grab a 32-ounce bag for $5.99 at the warehouse. With the price of chips these days, that's a stellar deal.

RELATED: 11 Best Costco Deals To Score in February

Callie's Caramelized Onion Dip

callies carmelized onion dip

Per Serving: 110 calories, 11 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 95 mg sodium, 3 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 0 g protein

Callie may be known for her South Carolina shop, Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, but she's come out with a caramelized onion dip especially for this time of year. The thick, onion dip is great for chips but Redditors find real value in spreading it on a sandwich or burger, a fun way to jazz up any sandwich or slider trays. A 24-ounce container is $8.99 in the warehouse.

Kirkland Signature Garlic Seasoned Party Wings

Kirkland Signature Garlic Seasoned Party Wings from Costco

What's a Super Bowl party without chicken wings? Costco marinated these for you with its own Kirkland Signature garlic seasoning, making it easy to just throw them in the oven when it's halftime. (You could also buy them pre-cooked in the deli section.) Grab them for $3.99 per pound at the warehouse.

RELATED: Perdue vs. Costco: Which Has the Tastiest Air Fryer Chicken Wings?

Good Foods Chicken Taco Dip

good foods chicken taco dip

Per Serving (2 tbsp): 50 calories, 3.5 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 170 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 3 g protein

This new Good Foods dip brings all the flavor of a taco without anything artificial. Loaded with rotisserie chicken, corn, cheese and jalapeño peppers, it's sure to be a crowd pleaser. A 24-ounce container is $9.89 at the warehouse.

Bistro Pretzel Bites and Dipping Sauce

Bistro 28 Pretzel Bites

Per Serving: 300 calories, 13 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 1240 mg sodium, 38 g carbs (1 g fiber, 2 g sugar), 8 g protein

You'll find these pretzel bites in the refrigerated section of the store. The box comes with 50 pretzel bites that can be heated up in five minutes. It also comes with salt and two sauces—two containers of cheddar cheese dip and one of mustard dip, giving you everything you need for stadium-style pretzel bites. Fans on Reddit are enthusiastic. "These are amazing!!!!" one wrote. "I literally couldn't stop licking the beer cheese out of the cup." A 36.5 ounce box will run you $12.99.

RELATED: 25 Best New Costco Snacks to Try in 2024, According to Shoppers

Sierra Nevada Brewing High Gravity IPA Variety Pack

Sierra Nevada Brewing High Gravity Variety Cans

Sure, you could stick to Bud Light as the official sponsor of the Super Bowl. Or, you could grab a box of these IPAs from Sierra Nevada for something new to try. This High Gravity variety pack has four different varieties to enjoy. You get six of each style (24 in total) for $30.99 in the warehouse.

Feel Good Foods Hatch Green Chile Mac & Cheese Bites

feel good foods hatch chile mac n cheese bites

Per Serving (3 pieces): 200 calories, 9 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 450 mg sodium, 26 g carbs (1 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 6 g protein

Portable mac and cheese? Yes, please! These lightly breaded balls of macaroni are filled with white cheddar and hatch green chiles to spice things up. Perfect air-fried for a Big Game app that's sure to go quickly. The Costco-size box is two pounds and will cost you $14.99 in the warehouse. You'll find these mostly on the West Coast.

RELATED: 12 Best-Ever Costco Essentials, According to Our Groceries Editor

Siete Grain Free Tortilla Chips

siete grain free 12 oz bag

Per Serving (1 oz): 130 calories, 7 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 150 mg sodium, 20 g carbs (3 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 1 g protein

It's not a requirement to have anything healthy at a Super Bowl party, but when better-for-you meets delicious, it's worth it. These grain-free tortilla chips from Siete are light and crispy and also gluten- and dairy-free. A worthy pick-up for dipping or crunching on their own. A 12-ounce bag, smaller for Costco standards, will run you $5.99 at the warehouse, so pick up two!

La Terra Fina Spinach Artichoke & Parmesan Dip

la terra fina spinach artichoke parmesan

Per Serving (2 tbsp): 90 calories, 8 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 170 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 2 g protein

Spinach and artichoke may be the quintessential dip for any large gathering. It's always a crowd pleaser. La Terra Fina puts its own spin on the standard with the addition of parmesan. To settle the debate between warm or cold spinach artichoke dip, this one is versatile. Serve right out of the container or heat up in another vessel for a warm and creamy take on the dip. A 31-ounce container is $8.99 at the warehouse.

RELATED: The 11 Best Quick & Easy Lunch Options at Costco Right Now

Tostitos Salsa Con Queso

tostitos salsa con queso

Per Serving (2 tbsp): 40 calories, 2.5 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 280 mg sodium, 5 g carbs (1 g fiber, <1 g sugar), <1 g protein

Sometimes you eat things for the nostalgia factor, and everyone who walks by these jars of Tostitos salsa con queso will be transported to simpler times. It's worth picking up this two-pack to make stadium-style nachos or just to offer another dip to go with all the chips you're sure to add to the spread. A steal, it's just $7.99 for two 23-ounce jars at the warehouse.

Kirkland Signature Beef Chili

Kirkland Signature Beef Chili

Per Serving (1/4 tray): 470 calories, 19 g fat (8 g saturated fat), 1380 mg sodium, 49 g carbs (7 g fiber, 5 g sugar), 24 g protein

A vat of chili is always a crowd pleaser and it's no different on SuperBowl Sunday. Set up a bar with all the fixins'—cheese, onions, sour cream—and warm up Costco's beef chili. You'll get close to four pounds per container at $3.49 per pound and it's always a fan favorite.

RELATED: 15 Costco Food Facts That Will Blow Your Mind

Frank's Red Hot

frank's red hot two pack

Per Serving (5 ml): 0 cal, 0 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 190 mg sodium, 0 g carbs (0 g sugar), 0 g protein

If there was ever a time to buy loads of Buffalo sauce, it would be Super Bowl Sunday, and nobody does it better than Frank's Red Hot. Douse your wings, serve it on the side, turn it into Buffalo chicken dip—the applications are endless. You'll usually find a good stock-up sale on these close to the Super Bowl. Two 25-ounce bottles will cost you $10.19 online, with $2 off right now if you buy two packages.

Ocean Pier Fried Dill Pickle Chips

fried dill pickle chips

Per Serving (7 pieces): 240 cal, 19 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 650 mg sodium, 17 g carbs (2 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 2 g protein

Fried pickles, once reserved for munching at the bar, have made their way to freezer aisles everywhere, and they'd make the perfect Super Bowl snack. Tangy, crunchy, and delicious, these breaded pickle coins can be air fried or popped in the oven. A 32-ounce package will cost $10.99 at the warehouse.

Hebrew National Kosher Beef Franks

hebrew national beef franks

Per Serving (49 g): 150 cal, 13 g fat (5 g saturated fat), 480 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 6 g protein

Having hot dogs on hand for a large gathering is never a bad idea, and if temps stay mild, they can easily be thrown on the grill to appease kiddos and adults alike. These Hebrew National hot dogs are always a crowd pleaser. Leave whole or cut up to make your own take on pigs in a blanket. Four 12-ounce packages will cost you $13.59 online.

The post The 14 Best Costco Super Bowl Snacks to Grab ASAP appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
I Tried 7 Award-Winning Trader Joe's Items & One Truly Lives Up To the Hype https://www.eatthis.com/trader-joes-award-winning-items-taste-test-2024/ Sun, 04 Feb 2024 14:00:23 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=781327 Forget the Golden Globes, Grammys, and even the Oscars. In the grocery business, awards season...

The post I Tried 7 Award-Winning Trader Joe's Items & One Truly Lives Up To the Hype appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>
Forget the Golden Globes, Grammys, and even the Oscars. In the grocery business, awards season means one thing: Trader Joe's Annual Customer Choice Awards.

Each year for the last 15, the popular specialty grocer has collected votes from its shoppers to identify the most adored food and drink items in its stores. Categories include Beverage, Cheese, Produce, Appetizer, Breakfast & Brunch, Lunch & Dinner, Snack, Sweet Treat, and Bath, Body & Home (the only nonconsumable category). Plus, one very special product is crowned as the No. 1 pick overall.

The results are in for 2024, and there were some surprises. Trader Joe's shook things up this time by not including the five products with repeat titles and the only five items yet to be inducted into the store's Hall of Fame. This includes Mandarin Orange Chicken, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets, Unexpected Cheddar Cheese, and Soy Chorizo. With these items out of the way, other worthy products were able to shine, and some received recognition for the first time.

As this year's winners enjoy their time in the sun, I wanted to give each a try. I set out for my local Trader Joe's and rounded up the titleholder across each grocery category—except the top beverage, Spiced Apple Cider, which is a seasonal item. I put each one to the test and developed my own mini-rankings. Let's jump in to see which champions reign supreme when pitted against each other.

Bananas

trader joe's bananas

PER Serving (1 BANANA): 108 calories, 0.6 g fat (0.1 g saturated fat), 1.26 mg sodium, 28.8 g carbs (3.3 g fiber, 15.4 g sugar), 1.4 g protein

This may seem like a boring award winner—especially when up against elaborate munchies or full meals—but produce is on nearly every shopper's grocery list. And, because of its variable nature, it's always helpful to hear straight from consumers which fruits and veggies are consistently quality. At Trader Joe's, that happens to be b-a-n-a-n-a-s!

The classic yellow fruit—which comes organic and in a standard Chiquita variety from Ecuador—is no stranger to success. This time around is the item's fifth win in the produce category—enough badges of honor to earn bananas a spot in the Trader Joe's Hall of Fame. As is the case with these items, customers love TJ's bananas for their taste. They also come at an unbeatable price of $0.19 each. Now, that's something to go bananas about.

The look: I picked up a bunch of three bananas in the produce section—although single bananas up to bunches of six or seven were available. In the non-organic section, I found that most options were unripe with peels sporting a bright green shade. The trio I grabbed was more mature, and a day after I brought them home, they were almost fully yellow with light brown spotting. Inside there were no blemishes. All three measured in at almost seven inches long on the dot.

The taste: The archetype of a good banana. It was still a bit unripe for my liking. I usually don't even think to pick up a banana until it's sprouted brown freckles, but that's more of a personal preference. It was sweet, firm, and free from any phloem bundles (those annoying stringy bits that can drive people mad). The fruit comes in a good size—not too dainty but also not too big so you lose your appetite for it at the end.

I hate to place this victor in last place since it is nearly flawless and something I would gladly grab again. But, that just proves how on-point this customer-curated list is.

RELATED: 11 Most Adorable Valentine's Day Treats at Trader Joe's

Hashbrowns

trader joe's hash browns

PER Serving (1 PATTY): 120 calories, 6 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 250 mg sodium, 15 g carbs (1 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 1 g protein

Potatoes at breakfast tend to go over well, and they are finally receiving the praise they deserve at TJ's. Trader Joe's Hashbrowns are the most recent medalists in the breakfast and brunch bracket. A big win over three types of sweet croissants and the store's Chicken Breakfast Sausage Patties. Like the sausage, the hash browns come in a compact, convenient patty form. This makes them the perfect freezer staple for those busy mornings when you don't have the time to hunch over the stove monitoring slow-cooking potatoes. Just pop these bad boys in the oven, and they're ready to go in less than 15 minutes.

The look: Shredded hash browns smooshed into a 4-by-3-inch patty. They turn a nice shade of golden brown and cook up somewhat evenly in the oven.

The taste: The first thing I noticed is that they come out more flimsy than crisp, even after their allotted time in the oven. I ended up eating them with a fork rather than holding them like the patties from McDonald's. But, there lies my only complaint. Each hash brown is soft, clearly made from real potatoes, and the perfect sidekick for a plate of bacon and eggs. Since they are on the greasy side, they may not make for the most healthful start to the morning, but perhaps the happiest.

RELATED: 15 Best Trader Joe's Comfort Foods to Stock Up On Right Now

Chèvre Goat Cheese

trader joe's chevre goat cheese

PER SERVING (1 OZ): 80 calories, 6 g fat (4.5 g saturated fat), 80 mg sodium, <1 g carbs (0 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 5 g protein

Cheese is such a hot topic at Trader Joe's that it takes up an entire grouping in the Customer Choice Awards. This year, the store's goat cheese was at the forefront, beating out quality cheddar, burrata, cheese dip, and more. This cheesy champion is described as creamy and fresh. And, with a significantly lower lactose content than cow cheese, it's a more approachable option. The cherry on top is that the chèvre (goat cheese in French) comes in other flavors and varieties, including fine herbs, cranberry, blueberry vanilla, and honey.

The look: An alabaster-colored cheese log—fairly small measuring just about 3.5 inches long. It's a tad difficult to transfer from the package, and I had to reshape it after plopping it onto my plate.

The taste: Sweet and tart. It's so light and smooth that it essentially dissolves in your mouth. Pro tip: Leave the chèvre out for a couple of minutes before digging in to achieve this softer texture. Otherwise, it's more on the crumbly side. I paired it with standard snack crackers since it is so spreadable. I could also see it as the perfect topping on a salad or pasta dish, or even covering a pizza crust.

RELATED: Trader Joe's Shoppers Are Buzzing About a New Frozen Appetizer

Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip

trader joe's spinach artichoke dip

PER SERVING (2 TBSP): 40 calories, 3 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 125 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein

If you're looking for this item among Trader Joe's myriad of other dips, you'll never find it. It lives in the freezer section nestled among various frozen specialties. I shamefully had to be escorted there myself on a trip to the market—hopefully, you can learn from my mistake. I was on the hunt for the Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip because it won this year in the all-important appetizer category. The likes of Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites, Parmesan Pastry Pups, Greek Spanakopita, and the unique Vegetable Bird's Nests received honorable mentions in this area.

The look: It came out of the packaging in a stout cylinder shape and turned into a thick soup after about four minutes in the microwave. The color is standard cream to off-white with plenty of green spinach laced throughout.

The taste: Closer to goopy and smooth rather than chunky like other spinach and artichoke dips I've had—more like the consistency of queso. Something about it tastes homemade and warm and soothing to the soul. Swiss and parmesan cheeses were the perfect choices for the app with their mild and sweet notes. The artichoke flavor, on the other hand, is more elusive. Small pieces of the vegetable are present.

Fair warning with this one: It is unlikely you will be able to stick to the measly serving size of two tablespoons, judging by the fact that my husband and I polished off the whole bowl in one sitting.

RELATED: 15 Best Dips at Trader Joe's Right Now, According to Customers

Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice

trader joe's butter chicken basmati rice

PER SERVING (1 CONTAINER): 400 calories, 13 g fat (4.5 g saturated fat), 640 mg sodium, 49 g carbs (2 g fiber, 3 g sugar), 24g protein

The Trader Joe's Butter Chicken is widely adored, and I was shocked to learn this was its first time in the limelight. This is because it falls into the same category as the store's Mandarin Orange Chicken, which now sits pretty in the Hall of Fame. This year, Butter Chicken got a fair shot.

The meal consists of basmati rice and chicken drenched in an Indian-inspired sauce. It makes for the perfect on-the-go lunch or quick and easy meal when you don't feel like cooking, and customers often express that it is exceptional.

The look: A pool of terracotta-colored liquid containing five sizable chicken pieces. On the other side, the rice is standard white, long-grain rice. Based on its looks, I was wary. But, the smell as I pulled the container from the microwave raised my hopes.

The taste: The sauce is curry-like with strong flavors of ginger and turmeric. At the same time, the addition of whipping cream and butter thickens it, making it as rich as it is spicy. Having bathed in this mixture, the chicken turns out tender and juicy. I think there would need to be more chicken here to help it eat like a meal. But, all in all, the Butter Chicken is impressive for a frozen, packaged meal, and probably one of the best I have had.

RELATED: I Tried 9 Trader Joe's Wines Under $15—& One Was Worth Every Penny

Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches

trader joe's sublime ice cream sandwiches

PER SERVING (1 SANDWICH): 370 calories, 19 g fat (10 g saturated fat), 150 mg sodium, 51 g carbs (<1 g fiber, 34 g sugar), 5 g protein

Step aside, Hold the Cone! Ice Cream Cones and Chocolate Lava Cakes. Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches are TJ's customers' current sweet obsession. And, with a name like that, they ought to be. These frozen treats have held a spot in the store's freezer for quite some time, and they finally made their way to the winner's circle this year. Each sandwich consists of two chocolate chip cookies with a thick glob of vanilla ice cream stuffed in the middle. The whole dessert is rolled in mini chocolate chips so that each side is fully coated with hardly any white ice cream peeking out from underneath.

The look: Not as picture perfect as what's on the box, but pretty close. The cookies come in that quintessential shade of light brown with chocolate chunks throughout. The ice cream layer is respectable, and there is no shortage of dark brown chocolate morsels.

The taste: I am a big ice cream fanatic, but I don't usually reach for ice cream sandwiches as I've found that the cookies eclipse the ice cream, and the dessert ends up being too rich. I was more than pleasantly surprised that is not the case with the Sublimes. The ice cream shines through with vanilla flavoring that almost makes it taste marshmallow-esque. The buttery cookies give off an air of being homemade with a soft, chewy texture, but they don't fall apart. I probably could have done with about half the portion of chips. Still, it's a top-notch treat from Trader Joe's.

RELATED: 10 Best Trader Joe's Desserts for Weight Loss

Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips

trader joe's rolled corn tortilla chips

PER Serving (15 CHIPS): 150 calories, 8 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 260 mg sodium, 17 g carbs (2 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein

These Takis lookalikes are a staple in Trader Joe's snack aisle, demanding attention in their bright pink and yellow bags. Right now they are receiving attention as winners of not only the snack category but also the store's No. 1 pick overall. It's one of the highest honors a munchie like this could hope to receive. The tortilla chips are made from stone-ground corn masa and flavored with a bold combination of chili and lime. They are gluten-free.

Other snackable foods at Trader Joe's like Patio Potato Chips and Crunchy Curls took a backseat to the spice this time. They still earned recognition as runner-ups.

The look: The rolls are not as dust-covered as I would have thought. They take on a shade of orange with a few fiery red spots here and there.

The taste: Both the citrus and spice hit you hard on the first bite. The intense flavors settle down as you continue to chew and you're not left with a breath that's too fiery. I found myself seeking out the darker rolls to get extra seasoning and heat. They pack an incredible crunch, letting you know that the base tortilla chip is quality. I think if Trader Joe's sold them plain, they would be a hit. Although, as plain chips they might need to take a different shape. These skinny scrolls couldn't hold much dip. Overall, I have to agree with the Trader Joe's customer panel on this one. These chips are absolutely deserving of the awards they received.

The post I Tried 7 Award-Winning Trader Joe's Items & One Truly Lives Up To the Hype appeared first on Eat This Not That.

]]>