Salads are a healthy option, yes. They require a solid amount of effort, also yes. Trader Joe's to the rescue, as per usual. TJ's is shaking up the salad scene this year with some of their tried and true classics while introducing a handful of shiny new greens, too. From premade salads with a Mexican kick to packaged greenery with a BBQ flair, taking the healthier road doesn't look half bad.
We're ready to revamp our boring greens, so here's a selection of 16 Trader Joe's salads to give a go this year. And they're all under $5! Healthy lunches . . . here we come.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lauren Breedlove
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You'll feel healthier just reading the title of this hearty salad. With a Fall feel and no meat, vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike will be more than pleased eating this one.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
You had us at gorgonzola, Trader J's. There's deliciousness in simplicity with this premade gem, and we're alright with that.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Head to the Southwest on your lunch break with this prepackaged treasure. The greens, black beans, corn, and Mexican cheese are all just a delightful vehicle for the tangy ranch dressing, if you ask us.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Anything deemed "harvest" is gonna be good, naturally. The creamy dijon dressing complements the chicken, green beans, cheddar cheese, and hard-boiled egg quite nicely. Oh, and the Spring lettuce . . . that, too.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
With Spring and Summer just around the bend, this BBQ chicken salad is easily a lunch staple. The tortilla chips are a welcome bonus for that crunch we crave. Thanks, TJ's.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
A salad fiesta! Chili-seasoned chicken and jalapeño caesar dressing spice this one up. If anyone can make salads exciting, it's Trader Joe's.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Another globally inspired bed of greens complete with crispy noodles as a topper. The chicken might be the star of the show, but the snow peas and sesame soy dressing are worthy sidekicks. If we could get a fortune cookie in there, the dream would be complete.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Head to the Pacific (sort of) with this grilled chicken salad accompanied by roasted almonds, crispy rice noodles, and sesame seeds. Topped off with a "dressing that's divine," this salad has an air of mystery. Only one way to find out the wonders it contains.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Broccoli and Kale? Nailing this healthy-eating thing. This combo of sunflower seeds, cranberries, and a sweet and spicy dressing have us considering this one as a "twice a week" salad.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Put on your fancy pants, because this one has arugula. This salad is a perfect fit for anyone craving a little Middle Eastern flavor. The Israeli couscous and spicy red pepper dressing will bring the whole thing full circle.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
An ode to cotija cheese: we love you. TJ's suggests using the Mexican-style corn and quinoa salad as a lunch or as a side dish and, well, we have to agree. Or snag two and do both. Either way.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Ah, Caesar . . . a classic. Can't go wrong with croutons, and that's something the Caesar salad promises.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
This special TJ's salad has a lot going on, starting with the five-spice chicken. The Asian-style rice noodle salad is certainly something we can get on board with, and chili lime dressing — we applaud you.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Channel your inner Italian for a lunchtime mozz treat with this simple and timeless salad. Topped with balsamic (of course), the tomato and mozzarella is always a good idea.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
With a name like Super Spinach Salad, you know this one is going to check the "healthy greens" box. It's loaded with goodies that are good for you, like quinoa, carrots, and chickpeas, to name a few. Trader J's, you're super.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Another win for the super salads. The green salad palette is pleasing to the eyes as well as the belly. For the extrahungry luncher, this bigger-sized salad will definitely fulfill your quota for greens in one hit. Oh, and the avocado citrus dressing? You've outdone yourself TJ's.
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove
Image Source: Lauren Breedlove