There are refrigerated cases around the perimeter of Trader Joe’s to display produce, dairy products, tofu, juices and other perishable products. However, “the chilled case” at Trader Joe’s refers to the section with the pre-prepared grab-and-go foods, including entrees, sandwiches and salads. This section is popular with the lunch time and after work crowds.
Salads are the vegetarian highlight of the chilled case, but please note that many of the salads do contain meat and they look very similar to the ones that don’t. Fortunately, there are several satisfying vegetarian salads and a few vegan salads. Country Italian, Southwest, and Super Spinach (vegan) salads are good choices.
The vegetarian sandwich selections are limited to a selection of Mediterranean style wraps (falafel, lentil, etc.). The fillings are tasty, but there is too much bread and not enough tahini sauce. There’s a Tofu Spring Roll (vegan) with peanut sauce that is tasty and filling. Just be prepared for it to fall apart in your lap!
The vegetarian entree selection is meager. There is occasionally a stuffed pepper, layered eggplant or pasta dish, but none seem to be stocked for long. Some entrees that seem like they should be vegetarian, such as the mushroom and asparagus tortelloni, aren’t vegetarian due to an unexpected ingredient (chicken broth in this case). Be sure to read the ingredient labels and not just the product name and description.
The refrigerated section is also where the seasonal side dishes, such as creamed kale and scalloped corn, show-up so keep an eye open for something new and appetizing. However, check the labels to make sure it’s not only vegetarian, but that it doesn’t contain a whole lot more calories that you want in a side dish.