It’s officially that time of year: Back-to-school season is upon us, meaning that in addition to buying school supplies, it’s time to stock up on lunchtime essentials that are both tasty and packable.
Growing up, Lunchables were a popular option revered for their convenience, novelty, appealing flavors and overall “fun” factor, which was especially appealing for a (former) picky eater like myself. Despite having the word “lunch” in its name, Lunchables are the antithesis of a meal and are best categorized as snack food. They provide little to no nutrients — in fact, in 2024, Kraft Heinz removed the meal kits from the National School Lunch Program after high levels of sodium, lead and cadmium were found in Lunchables sold at schools. Additionally, the kits aren’t the most economical choice of “meal” or, even, snack.
Unlike the infamous Lunchables, easily packable lunches don’t have to come at the expense of cost or sustenance. Thankfully, Trader Joe’s has a plethora of healthy yet delicious lunch items that are guaranteed to keep your younglings both satisfied and energized throughout the school day.
From TJ’s Organic Cacio e Pepe Puffs to its Squiggly Knife Cut Style Noodles, here are seven products that are guaranteed to up your lunch game.
Mediterranean Hummus Snack Pack with Pita Chips
Packing lunch got a whole lot easier with TJ’s Mediterranean Hummus Snack Pack with Pita Chips, which includes TJ’s Mediterranean Hummus and its Pita Chips in one compact snack tray. Pair the snack pack with vegetable crudités and fresh fruit for extra nutrition. This snack is hassle-free, so be sure to stock up on several packs during your next TJ’s visit.
Organic Cacio e Pepe Puffs
TJ’s rendition of Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar Cheese Puffs is deliciously cheesy with a hint of spiciness. Each puff flaunts sharp flavors of cheddar and romano topped with organic, cracked black pepper. In addition to their unique flavor profile, the cheese puffs are a delight to eat — airy, crunchy and highly addicting.
“They’re an ideal mix of simple and elegant, making them a great option for anytime snacking occasions, like movie nights or game days, as well as more formal applications, like crushing up and using as the bread crumb topping of a baked macaroni and cheese,” TJ’s says about its cheese puffs.
These are a snacking staple that can be easily paired with boxed fruit juice and a hearty sandwich to make a complete meal.
Tiniest Chocolate Chip Cookies
Enough with the salty snacks, though. Sweet snacks deserve some love, too! TJ’s Tiniest Chocolate Chip Cookies may be “tiny,” but they certainly don’t skimp on decadence and chocolate chips. Per TJ’s, the cookies are “uncomplicated, smaller-than-a-dime-sized treats” that are exclusively made with butter, no oils. They’re easy to pack and can be enjoyed as is — or alongside fresh-cut fruit or topped on homemade yogurt bowls.
Squiggly Knife Cut Style Noodles
As for actual meal options, TJ’s Squiggly Knife Cut Style Noodles is a must-buy because it’s easy to prepare, pack and enjoy. Just take it from TJ’s: “The Noodles, resplendent with ruffly edges and air-dried for 18 hours, deliver a splendidly chewy dining experience. Their quick cook time makes them an outstanding afternoon nosh, while the included Soy and Sesame Sauce creates a craveable, umami-laden noodle canvas that’s ready for partnering with your favorite protein and veggies or enjoying as-is.”
Simply cook the noodles in boiling water for four minutes, drain and then add in the sauce packet. Toss in some fresh broccoli, carrots and baby corn along with TJ’s Grilled Chicken Strips.
Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese
Nothing beats classic mac & cheese for lunch. TJ’s boxed Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese contains thin, tube-shaped macaroni pasta and a cheddar-filled seasoning blend that’s guaranteed to be a favorite amongst cheese lovers of all ages. The finished pasta is creamy, rich and indulgent — seriously, you can’t go wrong with TJ’s Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese for school lunch.
TJ’s recommends mixing one to two tablespoons of TJ’s Plain Greek Whole Milk Yogurt into the warm and drained pasta for an extra tangy sauce. You can also add a few squirts of TJ’s Sriracha Sauce, just before adding the seasoning packet, for a spicy kick.
“And why not make it a meal by crumbling in some cooked Caramelized Onion & Bell Pepper Turkey Patties?” TJ’s adds. “However you prepare our classic Mac & Cheese, it’s sure to satisfy the kids you know — including the kid in you!”
Cheeseburger Burrito
TJ’s Cheeseburger Burrito takes eating to a new level by marrying two lunchtime classics into one. Encased in a flour tortilla is seasoned beef crumble, sharp shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes and onion and ketchup, mustard and pickled relish.
The burrito can be warmed up in the microwave or a conventional oven or a skillet before packing. Pair it with fresh-baked french fries or tater tots and an assortment of dips, whether that’s hot sauce, salsa or melted queso.
Green Goddess Salad
Grab-N-Go salads aren’t just easy to toss into your kiddos’ lunchbox — they also ensure that your kiddos are getting their necessary servings of veggies during the school day. TJ’s Green Goddess Salad includes shredded romaine lettuce, spinach, red cabbage and carrots tossed with chunks of chicken thigh meat that’s been seasoned with a blend of spices. There’s also crispy red rice and TJ’s Green Goddess Ranch Dressing, which is made from buttermilk, champagne vinegar, lemon, parsley, basil, green onion and chives.
Per TJ’s, the salad is best paired with a side of TJ’s Tomato & Parmesan Focaccia. Of course, it can also be enjoyed on its own.
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