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Trader Joe’s Salmon Rub: The Game-Changing Seasoning You Didn’t Know You Needed

When it comes to seafood, seasoning can make all the difference, and Trader Joe's Salmon Rub delivers a simple yet effective way to elevate your fish dishes. I know I can be guilty of keeping it simple with just some salt and pepper, but this rub has come into my regular rotation. This spice blend is specially formulated to enhance the natural flavors of salmon and other fish varieties, making it easy to create restaurant-quality meals at home.

Trader Joe's Salmon Rub on a pink background.

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What is Trader Joe's Salmon Rub?

Trader Joe's Salmon Rub is a pre-mixed blend of spices designed specifically for seasoning salmon. The rub contains a mix of brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and thyme giving your fish a sweet and smoky flavor. It comes in a convenient shaker bottle, making it easy to sprinkle on your fish before grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

Taste and Flavor Profile

The flavor of Trader Joe's Salmon Rub is balanced to complement the rich, fatty nature of salmon, especially farm-raised salmon. The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the smoked paprika brings a nice mildly smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted fish. Overall, the rub offers a balanced, albeit sweet note to Salmon.

On the surface, Trader Joe's Salmon Rub appears to be a low-calorie way to add big flavor to your meals. A single serving typically contains 0 calories, making it a healthy option for seasoning fish or other proteins. However, based on it being a rub, I doubt anyone is using that little in each serving. If you are like me and make a rub out of this you are using something closer to a tablespoon per filet. And based on the idea that sugar is the first ingredient, there are some calories to be had here despite the number reading zero. So if you are counting carbs, I would say use this sparingly.

Trader Joe's Salmon Rub Nutritional Facts.

Value for Money

At $2.69, this is a pretty good deal especially when you consider the fact that the end product with salmon is good. While you probably could make this cheaper at home as it only contains brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme, it's nice to have a quick and reliable blend already done for you.

Based on the size of the container it is small enough I could be used in a timely fashion without loss of freshness.

Instructions

If you are unsure how to use this product, then here are two different ways of preparing salmon using Trader Joe's Salmon Rub.

Step 1: Heat a pan to medium-high heat if cooking on stove top. If baking, pre-heat oven to 400F.

Raw salmon in a baking dish on a pink background.

Step 2: Dry any excess liquid from the salmon. Pat dry with a paper towel. If pan frying, use oil to coat the bottom of the pan. If baking also ensure the bottom of the pan has oil as to prevent sticking. Be sure to start the skin side down.

Two salmon fillets on a baking dish coated in Trader Joe's Salmon Rub

Step 3: Season generously with Trader Joe's Salmon Rub. For 2 filets, use about 1 tablespoon.

Two fully cooked Trader Joe's Salmon Rub coated filets.

Step 4: If pan-frying cook 4-5 minute per side. Check to make sure center is cooked through. If baking, it will take 12-15 minutes.

Other cooking directions for Salmon

Using Trader Joe's Salmon Rub is as simple as it gets. Here are some easy methods for incorporating this seasoning into your seafood dishes:

Grilling: Rub a generous amount of the seasoning onto your salmon fillets before placing them on the grill. The heat will caramelize the brown sugar and bring out the smoky paprika, creating a flavorful crust on the fish.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F and coat your salmon with the rub. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Pan-Searing: For a quick weeknight meal, sprinkle the rub over your salmon and sear it in a hot pan with a little oil. The rub will form a delicious crust while keeping the inside tender and moist.
Smoked Salmon: If you have a smoker, Trader Joe's Salmon Rub works wonders for smoked salmon. Apply the rub before smoking for a rich, smoky flavor that's perfect for brunch or appetizers.
Air Frying: Preheat your airfryer to 400F. Be sure to brush you salmon with oil to prevent sticking. Cook for 7-9 minutes and check for doneness.

Other Uses for Trader Joe's Salmon Rub

Other Uses for Trader Joe's Salmon Rub

Though it's designed for salmon, this versatile rub can be used on a variety of proteins and vegetables. Here are a few other ideas:

Vegetables: Sprinkle the rub over roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or squash to add depth and a hint of sweetness.

Chicken: The sweet and smoky flavors work well with grilled or roasted chicken.

Pork: Use the rub on pork chops or pork tenderloin for a flavorful, caramelized crust.

FAQs

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about this product:

How long does Trader Joe's Salmon Rub last?

As with most spices, Trader Joe's Salmon Rub has a long shelf life. Be sure to store it in a cool, dry place to preserve its freshness, and it should last for several months.

How much rub should I use per fillet?

The amount of rub you use depends on your taste preferences. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 tablespoon of rub per fillet, but feel free to adjust based on how strong you want the flavors to be.

Is Trader Joe's Salmon Rub spicy?

The rub has a slight kick from the black pepper, but it's not overly spicy. The sweetness from the brown sugar helps to balance out the heat.

Conclusion

Trader Joe's Salmon Rub is a fantastic addition to any seafood lover's spice cabinet. Its blend of sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors enhances the taste of salmon without overpowering it. Whether you're grilling, baking, air frying, or pan-searing, this rub makes it easy to create delicious, restaurant-quality meals at home. For $2.69, it's an affordable way to take your salmon to the next level (or veggies, chicken, or pork if you are curious).

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Trader Joe’s Griddle Cakes Review: Taste Like McGriddles But Better

Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes offers a delicious and easy breakfast option that brings a taste of traditional Dutch pancakes right to your kitchen. These fluffy, lightly sweetened cakes are perfect for a quick meal, whether you're in the mood for a classic breakfast or an afternoon snack. So if you are a fan of McDonald's McGriddles but prefer a little less sweet then you are in luck.

A package of Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes

What Are Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes?

Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes are frozen, ready-to-heat pancakes that are thicker and fluffier than standard pancakes, inspired by the traditional Dutch version known as "poffertjes." Each package comes with four cakes, offering a convenient option for busy mornings. They're slightly sweet on their own but are even better with a variety of toppings or sides.

Trader Joe's currently sells poffertjes year-round with some seasonal varieties. So while the taste is similar the griddle cakes are larger and taller rather than the bite-size mini pancakes. While the poffertjes are made in Belgium, these are made in the Netherlands

While this is perfect for replicating many of McDonald's McGriddle items minus the maple flavor, there is one downside to this product and it is the packaging. Each package contains 8 cakes, but there is no way to reseal the package once opened.

I liked these and they've become a staple in my home. They are quick breakfasts and make for decent McDonald's breakfast dupes with minimal effort. Best of all they do taste less sweet overall. Despite them being less sweet they still retain all of the light, fluffy goodness.

Taste and Texture

These griddle cakes are rich, soft, and have a slight chewiness to them, making them stand out from regular pancakes. They have a mildly sweet flavor with hints of vanilla, making them delicious on their own or with various toppings. The texture is dense yet airy, offering a satisfying bite without feeling too heavy. Unlike McGriddles which these are often compared to there is no maple flavor present in the final product.

Cooking Instructions

Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes are quick and easy to prepare:

Microwave: Heat for about 30 seconds on high for a soft, fluffy texture for each griddle cake.
Oven: Bake at 350°F for 6-7 minutes until heated through.

Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes nutritional facts and ingredients.

Value for Money

This costs $3.49 for 8 griddle cakes. This price is comparable to ordering two McGriddles at McDonald's, so these are a solid value.

Top Tip

If you are in a rush in the morning and you are a syrup-and-butter person, add your frozen griddle cake and butter together before placing it in the microwave. At the end of the time, both will be warm and melty.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes experience, consider pairing them with some of the following:

Maple Syrup and Butter
Keep it classic with warm maple syrup and a pat of butter. The syrup soaks into the cakes perfectly, enhancing the natural sweetness.
Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream
Brighten up your breakfast with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. A dollop of whipped cream adds an indulgent touch.
Bacon or Sausage
Add a savory element to your meal by serving crispy bacon or breakfast sausage alongside the griddle cakes. The salty contrast balances the sweetness of the pancakes.
Nutella and Bananas
For a decadent option, spread a layer of Nutella on the griddle cakes and top with banana slices. This adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the fluffy pancakes.
Yogurt and Honey
For a lighter option, try topping the griddle cakes with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. This combination adds a bit of tang and sweetness without being too heavy.

FAQs

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about this product

Are Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes gluten-free?

No, these griddle cakes are made with wheat flour and are not gluten-free.

How long do Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes last in the freezer?

Like most frozen products, they can last for several months when stored in the freezer. For the best taste and texture, it's recommended to consume them within the first 2-3 months.

Are Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes sweet on their own?

Yes, they have a mild sweetness with hints of vanilla, but they're not overly sweet, making them a perfect base for a variety of toppings.

Conclusion

Trader Joe's Dutch Griddle Cakes are a delightful breakfast treat that combines convenience with a unique texture and flavor. They're versatile enough to be enjoyed in many ways, making them a staple for anyone who enjoys a quick yet satisfying meal. Whether you're keeping it simple with syrup or going all out with indulgent toppings, these griddle cakes are worth trying.

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Trader Joe’s Sweet Potato Gnocchi Review: Tastes Like Fall in a Bag and Here’s Why I’d Buy It Again

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage has quickly become a favorite in the frozen food aisle. If you're a fan of quick, comforting meals that don't skimp on flavor, this dish is a must-try. The sweet potato gnocchi combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery sage sauce that's perfect for cozy dinners. In this review, we'll cover the taste, texture, cooking methods, and how to elevate the dish with easy additions. Whether you're familiar with gnocchi or new to it, Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi is sure to be a hit.

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The taste and texture

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage features a delightful balance of flavors. The sweet potato gnocchi provides a slight sweetness that's complemented by the rich, creamy butter and sage sauce. The sauce isn't overly sweet, allowing the savory notes to come through, making this dish perfect for those who enjoy comfort food with a twist. The earthy sage adds depth to the flavor, rounding out the buttery richness without overpowering the sweet potato gnocchi. It's a well-balanced meal that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

Texture plays a huge role in enjoying gnocchi, and Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi does not disappoint. Unlike traditional potato gnocchi, which tends to be light and airy, this sweet potato version is denser and more substantial. When cooked correctly, the gnocchi retains a soft, chewy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully. For those who prefer a bit of crispiness, pan-frying the gnocchi will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi fully cooked

The packaging

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage are packaged in a 14.1-ounce plastic bag. There is no additional packaging beyond the product pictured here. The only problem with the current packaging is that some of the sage and butter sauce gets stuck to the inside.

That can be a bit of a mess when you want to pour out the product quickly or want to use up every bit of what has been packaged.

Best Ways to Cook Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Getting the right texture and flavor from Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage depends on how you cook it. Here are some of the best methods to try:

Pan-Frying: For the perfect crispy finish, sauté the gnocchi in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This method gives the gnocchi a golden brown crust while keeping the inside soft, adding a wonderful contrast in textures.
Microwave: The quickest method for preparing Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi is to microwave it. This option is great for busy weeknights when you want a fast, satisfying meal. While the gnocchi will be soft, it won't have the crispy edges you get from pan-frying.
Air-Frying: If you own an air fryer, try cooking the gnocchi at 400°F for about 10 minutes. The result is crispy, evenly cooked gnocchi with minimal effort. This method also allows the buttery sage sauce to coat the gnocchi evenly.
Baking: For those who prefer a hands-off approach, baking the gnocchi on a sheet pan at 425°F for 15 minutes provides a good mix of crispy and soft textures. This method works well if you're cooking other items in the oven simultaneously.

Versatility and Pairing Ideas

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage can be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or enhanced with simple add-ins. Here are some ideas to take it to the next level:

Add Protein: To make this a heartier meal, pair the gnocchi with grilled chicken, sausage, or tofu. The savory flavors of the proteins complement the sweet and buttery gnocchi.
Roasted Vegetables: Adding roasted vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini introduces more texture and nutrients. The earthiness of roasted veggies pairs beautifully with the sweet potato and sage sauce.
Cheese and Herbs: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh cracked black pepper elevates the dish, adding depth to the flavor profile. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh finish.

Nutritional Information

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage comes in a 14.1-ounce bag, containing about three servings. Each serving has 250 calories, making it a relatively moderate option for a quick dinner. While it's easy to polish off the entire bag in one sitting, you can balance out the meal by serving it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. This frozen gnocchi is a great option for those looking to enjoy comfort food without overindulging.

Cooking Tips

Getting the right texture and flavor from Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage depends on how you cook it. Here are some of the best methods to try and some of these aren't mentioned on the bag:

Baking: For those who prefer a hands-off approach, baking the gnocchi on a sheet pan at 425°F for 15 minutes provides a good mix of crispy and soft textures. This method works well if you're cooking other items in the oven simultaneously.

Pan-Frying: For the perfect crispy finish, sauté the gnocchi in a non-stick skillet over medium heat on a stove top. This method gives the gnocchi a golden brown crust while keeping the inside soft, adding a wonderful contrast in textures.

Microwave: The quickest method for preparing Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi is to microwave it. This option is great for busy weeknights when you want a fast, satisfying meal. While the gnocchi will be soft, it won't have the crispy edges you get from pan-frying.

Air-Frying: If you own an air fryer, try cooking the gnocchi at 400°F for about 10 minutes. The result is crispy, evenly cooked gnocchi with minimal effort. This method also allows the buttery sage sauce to coat the gnocchi evenly.

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi directions

A comparison of gnocchi

And believe me, I've tried all the gnocchis they offer: Cauliflower Gnocchi, Chocolate Lava Gnocchi, Gnocchi alla Gorgonzola, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Inside Out Stuffed Gnocchi, Sweet Potato Gnocchi, and even the dried gnocchi which I haven't reviewed yet (but are always on my pantry shelf).

If I had to recommend them in order of the best to the worst:

Sweet potato gnocchi
Cauliflower gnocchi
Inside Out Stuffed Gnocchi
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
Gnocchi alla Gorgonzola
Chocolate Lava Gnocchi
and lastly Kale Gnocchi.

You can click on any of the links above to be taken to the reviews of each of these products.

Frequently asked questions

Below are common product questions that I get:

Can Trader Joe's sweet potato gnocchi be air-fried?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 400F. Place them in a single layer for 10-14 minutes. Be sure to check halfway through and give the basket a good shake.

Can Trader Joe's sweet potato gnocchi be baked?

Yes! You can bake these at 450F for 15 minutes. Be sure to coat these with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also make an easy sheet pan dinner by tossing in a vegetable with some salt and pepper.

Is Trader Joe's sweet potato gnocchi vegan?

No, this product contains milk and eggs. The cheese also contains animal rennet.

Can I freeze Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi again after cooking?

It's best to enjoy the gnocchi fresh after cooking. While you can technically refreeze it, the texture may change, and the sauce could separate upon reheating.

How long does Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi last in the freezer?

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi has a long shelf life when stored in the freezer. Typically, it can last for several months, but for best quality, it's recommended to use it within 3-6 months of purchase.

Creative Uses and Recipes

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage can be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or enhanced with simple add-ins. Here are some ideas to take it to the next level:

Add Protein: To make this a heartier meal, pair the gnocchi with grilled chicken, sausage, or tofu. The savory flavors of the proteins complement the sweet and buttery gnocchi.
Roasted Vegetables: Adding roasted vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini introduces more texture and nutrients. The earthiness of roasted veggies pairs beautifully with the sweet potato and sage sauce.
Cheese and Herbs: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh cracked black pepper elevates the dish, adding depth to the flavor profile. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh finish.

Overall

Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage is a freezer staple for anyone who enjoys quick, delicious, and comforting meals. It's a blend of sweet potato and buttery sage sauce makes it a versatile dish that works as a main course or a side dish. With multiple cooking methods available, you can tailor the texture to your liking-whether you prefer crispy gnocchi from the air fryer or soft gnocchi straight from the microwave. This is one Trader Joe's frozen food item that you'll want to keep stocked in your freezer, especially on busy nights when you crave something hearty and satisfying.

Conclusion

Summary: This has been on freezer shelves for years and it's not a surprise as to why that is. This is a reliable dish that can easily be improved with the addition of a protein or more veggies.
Final Thoughts: Yes, this is a buy from me for those nights I'm too lazy to cook.

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Trader Joe’s Deodorant Promises Natural Protection… But Is It Worth It?

Trader Joe's is known for offering natural and affordable personal care products, and their deodorant is no exception. With a focus on simple ingredients and an aluminum-free formula, Trader Joe's Deodorant has gained popularity among those seeking natural alternatives. But, like with any product, experiences can vary.

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Product Overview

What Is Trader Joe's Deodorant?

For a long time, Trader Joe's sold Tom's of Main deodorant. Now, they've come out with their own branded item. This one is aluminum-free, phthalate-free, paraben-free, and baking soda free.

An open package of Trader Joe's deodorant showing the product.

First, let's start with the good news. For me, Trader Joe's Deodorant does work when it comes to odor control. I found that it kept me fresh throughout the day, which is always the primary concern with any deodorant. Despite being aluminum-free, it managed to keep sweat odor at bay, even during busier or more active days. For those looking for a natural deodorant that gets the job done in terms of keeping you not smelling bad this one does its job if it agrees with you.

I tried this product for 5 full days. I assumed this product would be smooth as butter going on. I was wrong. The application process was less than ideal. The deodorant bar itself did not glide on smoothly, which is a significant downside. I found the texture to be rough and dry, making it difficult to apply evenly. In some instances, I even felt like I had to push harder just to get enough product on my skin, which is far from the comfortable application I'd expect from a deodorant. And by the end of the 5 days, I found my underarms were getting more and more irritated causing me to go back to my old deodorant.

I started noticing some discomfort, including redness and mild irritation under my arms. This was likely due to the rough application and possibly an ingredient that didn't agree with my skin. Unfortunately, the irritation became severe enough that I had to discontinue using the product altogether. If you have sensitive skin like me, this could be something to consider before purchasing.

Ingredients: The Natural Appeal

Trader Joe's Deodorant touts a natural, aluminum-free formula, which is a significant selling point for those looking to avoid traditional antiperspirants with harsher chemicals. The deodorant contains ingredients like coconut oil and zinc. However, it's possible that the combination of natural oils and the waxy texture contributed to the irritation I experienced. While natural ingredients can be gentler for many people, they don't work for everyone.

Top Tip

Deodorant is one of those things, results will vary based on your chemistry with the active ingredients.

FAQs

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about this product:

Is Trader Joe's Deodorant aluminum-free?

Yes, Trader Joe's Deodorant is aluminum-free, making it a popular choice for those looking to avoid traditional antiperspirants that use aluminum compounds.

How does Trader Joe's Deodorant apply?

One downside of this deodorant is that the bar does not apply smoothly. Many users, including myself, have found it to be rough and dry, which can make it uncomfortable to put on.

Does Trader Joe's Deodorant leave residue or stains?

Like many natural deodorants, Trader Joe's Deodorant may leave a slight residue, but it doesn't typically stain clothing. It's always a good idea to let it dry before putting on tight-fitting or light-colored clothes.

Is Trader Joe's Deodorant scented?

This is very neutral in scent with no added fragrances.

Conclusion

In summary, Trader Joe's Deodorant has its benefits-primarily, it's effective at controlling odor and leaves behind no residue. It has a natural ingredient list that many people appreciate. However, the rough application and irritation I experienced were enough for me to stop using it. If you have sensitive skin or prefer a deodorant that goes on smoothly, this might not be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for an affordable, natural deodorant and haven't had issues with rough application in the past, it could be worth trying. Natural deodorants tend to be more expensive than the aluminum-based ones.

My honest thoughts are that this product has potential, but would need to be reformulated to ensure a smooth application to prevent irritation. Yes, it's affordable at $4.99, but is now sitting by in case of an emergency but not in my regular rotation. Until this goes back to the drawing board I won't be repurchasing this item.

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Trader Joe’s Shrimp Scampi Review: The Freezer Find You’ll Want to Stock Up On

If I had to pick two go-to items I order from a restaurant, it would be either chicken francese or shrimp scampi. But with restaurant prices up and portion sizes down at many places, Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi is an economical solution that still yields a good meal.

An unopened box of Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi

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Product Overview

What Are Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi?

These are shrimp that are individually coated in sauce. Unlike many other frozen items that contain sauce, there is no separately frozen sauce here. That makes this ideal for adjusting portion sizes as needed. Speaking of portion sizes, these shrimp aren't jumbo by any means of the imagination. Therefore, while the package says there are 3 servings, this realistically could be just 2 with a nicely portioned side dish.

This item can be broken down into two main ingredients: the shrimp and the sauce.

Raw Shrimp (Shrimp, Salt)
Sauce (Milkfat, Water, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic Puree, Cooking Wine [White Wine, Salt], Seasoning [Salt, Garlic Powder, Dried Onions, Spices, Dried Parsley, Yeast Extract, Dehydrated Red Bell Peppers, Romano Cheese {Cultured Milk, Salt, Microbial Enzyme}, Maltodextrin, Natural Flavors, Caramel Color, Citric Acid {Acidulant}, Butter Flavoring Blend {Butter (Cream), Buttermilk Solids, Natural Flavor}, Paprika Oleoresin {Color}, Annatto Extract {Color}, Turmeric Oleoresin {Color}], Modified Food Starch, Food Starches [Potato Starch and/or Rice Starch], Cheese Concentrate [Romano Cheese {Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Microbial Enzyme}, Water, Salt], Lemon Juice Concentrate, Butter Flavoring Blend [Maltodextrin, Enzyme Modified Butter Oil, Salt, Dried Butter {Cream}, Guar Gum, Sodium Bicarbonate, Annatto Extract {Color}, Turmeric {Color}], Gum Arabic, Black Pepper, Crushed Red Pepper, Xanthan Gum).
And if you have food allergies then Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi you need to be aware this product contains milk products and shrimp.

Trader Joe's Schrimp Scampi Ingredient list

The package did not mention where the shrimp were sourced from, nor did the package mention in what country it was made.

Price and Availability

Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi are currently priced at $8.99 and are located in the freezer section of Trader Joe's. There is no mention on Trader Joe's website that these are going to be a seasonal item.

Taste and Texture

A good shrimp scampi is rich and buttery which is a nice contrast to the sweeter flavor of shrimp. This hits that mark with an additional bit of umami flavor with the addition of romano cheese. These are well seasoned all around and there is nothing bland about this dish. And while garlic in frozen items can get a bit of funk to it, the flavor here was very fresh with no weird tastes. This is a nice balance between the richness of the butter, the acidity of the lemon and cooking wine, and the umami of the cheese thrown in. There is a hint of herbs like parsley, but they don't shine or stand out the way fresh ones do.

If you've ever had other brands of shrimp scampi you know there can sometimes be a weird aftertaste. That was not the case here. These tasted very fresh and there was quite a bit of sauce

Frozen shrimp can be rubbery or have an unpleasant texture. In the boxes I've tried, and yes, this has been a repeat purchase in my household, the texture of these is firm and relatively close to what I would get at a fish market.

A fully cooked box of Trader Joe's shrimp scampi in a serving platter.

Nutritional Value:

This dish is rich in fat, sodium, and cholesterol. However, when not eaten as a single serving it is a reasonable meal. Much of the sauce can be separated and used more sparingly. And if you are looking for a dish that is low carb, then this one is solid in terms of nutrition and taste.

Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi nutritional facts

Product Freshness

Storage Tips: Uncooked, this should be stored in the freezer, but if you choose to defrost this in the refrigerator overnight there is no loss in the quality of the end product until you are ready to prepare this.
Shelf Life: Fully cooked shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To maintain its freshness and safety, ensure that the shrimp is kept in an airtight container or well-wrapped in plastic wrap

Value for Money

This product will set you back just about $9. Making this a more complete meal will drive the overall dish price up. But the reality is shrimp easily goes for $9 a pound these days. And while this package is only 13 ounces it's still a solid value when you consider the other ingredients you would need to have on hand to make this. Frozen shrimp can run the risk of smelling or tasting fishy. This was both fresh tasting and smelling.

Most restaurants local to me are getting $25+ for an order of shrimp scampi. Many times they include quite a bit of pasta and only a handful of shrimp, so this hands down represents a much better value. Just adjust your expectations as restaurant meals will be using much larger shrimp. These shrimp are single-bite-size with no need for a knife to cut them.

Customer Feedback

Pros and Cons
- Overall, this is a well-received item by those who have tried it. The directions are accurate and yield a solid result.
- There is a ton of butter sauce here so you may want to mix that into whatever you are serving this with.
- This is far cheaper than going out with minimal mess.
- The shrimp here are smaller than what you would get in a restaurant.
- Plan on this being closer to 2 servings and not the three listed on the package.

As always, there is space in the comments section for your honest thoughts on this.

Instructions

Below are the directions on the package with the final results.

An open package of Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Open the package, remove the shrimp from the plastic package

Step 2: Can be made in the oven or stovetop. If making in the oven, preheat the oven to 400F and bake for 15 minutes. Or can be made on the stovetop in about 8-10 minutes by adding 2 tablespoons of water and medium heat.

Step 3: Serve and decide what you will do with all that buttery sauce. Pairing suggestions are listed below. And yes, there is plenty of sauce to go around.

Top Tip

Each shrimp is individually coated in the scampi sauce making it easy to portion these out. However, I would avoid the microwave as it tends to make shrimp rubbery and can cook unevenly.

Creative Uses and Recipes

This is not a complete meal, pairing suggestions can include:

Pasta
- Linguine or Angel Hair: The classic choice, as it complements the garlic butter sauce of the scampi.
- Fettuccine: A slightly thicker pasta that holds up well to the rich sauce.
Rice
Vegetables
- Steamed or Sautéed Asparagus: Balances the richness of the scampi.
- Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts: Adds a bit of crunch and depth.
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative to pasta that soaks up the sauce.
Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Provides a nice contrast to the soft shrimp.
Salad
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the garlic and butter.
- Mixed Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A lighter option that adds freshness to the meal.
Potatoes
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, great for soaking up the sauce.
- Roasted Potatoes: Adds a crispy, earthy element to the meal.
Wine Pairings: Shrimp scampi complements white wines. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of shrimp scampi beautifully.

FAQs

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about this product:

Is Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?

While the shrimp scampi itself does not list gluten-containing ingredients, it is not certified gluten-free, and cross-contamination may be a concern. Always check the packaging for the most up-to-date allergen information.

Can I customize Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi?

Yes! Many people like to add extra ingredients like fresh lemon juice, more garlic, or even vegetables like spinach or fresh herbs to the dish to suit their tastes.

Is Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi a healthy option?

Trader Joe's Shrimp Scampi is a relatively healthy option, especially if paired with vegetables or whole grains. However, it is rich in butter and cheese, so it's best enjoyed in moderation.

Conclusion

Summary: While not a cheap item, this is an easy, well-done frozen shrimp scampi that has good flavor and good texture based on the cooking directions.
Final Thoughts: This is worth trying at least once. It is an easy meal for under $10

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