The pros: Trader Joe's Carrot Spirals are the newest addition to the frozen veggies section. While it contains only simple ingredients, the end result was very good.
The cons: On the other hand, this took longer to cook from frozen than the package stated. Also, a few spirals were very, very long. Be careful about overcooking these. You do want al dente.
The verdict:
Recently, Trader Joe's expanded their frozen veggie options with the addition of Trader Joe's Carrot and Pea Patties and Trader Joe's Cauliflower and Broccoli Patties. I have found that my readers have a love it or too bland commentary about these items. When I shop at Trader Joe's, I expect lots of flavor from a product. Especially when the word "patties" happen to be involved. Normally, all of the other veggie patties (or burgers) are extremely flavorful. Whereas the newest veggie patties are veggies in a more pure sense. That may explain why I was a bit harsh when I reviewed them.
Unlike the patties, with Trader Joe's Carrot Spirals I knew what I was getting myself into. This is just carrots and some salt. Turning veggies into spirals is the latest food crazy that Trader Joe's is now trying to capitalize on. I thought this item was a complete success. It's simple and it comes out perfectly assuming you aren't using a timer and sticking to the directions.
I heated up some oil, put the spirals in, and covered the pan. Three minutes later, I only had the faintest amount of thawing. Some time later I was able to pull apart the spirals. When I was finally able to get these separated and heated through, the spirals were al dente. The taste was nothing but all carrot goodness. They can easily substitute for pasta or be mixed into a pasta until your taste buds adjust. My only other complaint is that the spirals were of vastly different lengths. Otherwise, this is an awesome find.
I actually enjoyed this most straight out of the pan even though the package gives suggestions for sauces. The dish just didn't seem to need anything. Best of all, at 35 calories per serving there is no guilt with eating this. For $2.99, I'm ready to buy a few of these to keep on hand. I recommend this.
Trader Joe's Carrot Spirals in the freezer aisle:
The nutritional information:
The simple ingredients:
How to prepare Trader Joe's Carrot Spirals:
Out of the package you get a good sized block of carrots frozen together:
After being cooked you get a delicious bowl of carrot "pasta":
Would I buy this again? Yes, Trader Joe's Carrot Spirals are worth trying.
Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.
Did you try it? I'd love to know what you thought of these. Leave a comment and let me know your thoughts.
Lisa says
I cooked the frozen spirals in the microwave with a little water, a garlic clove and a little salt, they came out perfect, I drained them and remove the garlic, with the kitchen shears I cut the spirals somewhat shorter. I seasoned with EVOO, chopped greek olives and feta. Delicious!!! Next time I will buy a case.
becomebetty says
I didn't know if they could be put in the microwave. How long did you put them in for? Your recipe sounds delicious by the way!
Lisa says
I used the microwave "frozen vegetables" setting and they were just right for me, you might try express 3minutes and then judge by your taste. Add a little water for the whole package, they stay moist.By the way this morning I had them for breakfast (yes), I added a little whipping cream, maple syrup and few raisins..after all carrots are sweet..
becomebetty says
Thanks so much for this information!
Amy says
They sampled this at the store with marinara sauce and their meatless meatballs and we made it at home with chicken and a peanut sauce. Both excellent!