Wednesday, August 8, 2007

New favorites

Okay, I have a few new favorite Trader Joe's items that I wanted to share. First I tried the low-fat cilantro salad dressing (found in the refrigerated produce section) last night - absolutely phenomenal! We just had it on a green salad with romaine, tomatoes, corn, and TJ's croutons....I couldn't get enough of it and couldn't believe it was low fat. It really tasted homemade and the cilantro flavor is perfectly intense. Anyway, I've already started dreaming of ways to use it....so more recipes and ideas to come on that one!

Also, here are two simple recipes using some of my other new favorites:

Best Grilled bread
  • 1 baguette
  • 1 jar TJ's grilled vegetable bruschetta
  • Olive oil
  • Sea salt
Slice baguette in half lengthwise and brush with a little olive oil. Grill over medium heat until toasted. Cut into smaller pieces, sprinkle with a little sea salt, and serve with bruschetta.

Easy Pasta
  • 1 jar TJ's regular tomato bruschetta (mostly tomatoes, in a tall square jar)
  • 1 package spinach chive fettucini
  • 1 tub TJ's perlini (tiny mozzarella balls)
Drain perlini and mix with bruschetta in a small bowl. Marinate for atleast 30 minutes. Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and allow to cool for a few minutes so pasta isn't too hot (I didn't want the mozzarella balls to melt). Toss with bruschetta/cheese mixture and serve. Yummy!