There are some truly remarkable items in the frozen foods case at TJ’s – creative, tasty and low cost. The vegetarian choices in the frozen cases at Trader Joe’s include frozen entrees, pizzas, rice and grain dishes, meat substitutes, vegetables, fruits, breakfast items and desserts.
Many of the frozen entrees are ethnic dishes that can be supplemented with frozen appetizers, rice or bread, and salad for a complete meal. Combine the vegetable biryani and dumplings (vegan) with palak paneer and garlic naan for an Indian feast. Japanese fried rice (vegan) makes an excellent base for fresh or frozen stir fry vegetables and can be served with scallion pancakes. Bean and corn (vegan) or cheese enchiladas are delicious served with a southwest salad. The numerous vegetarian Italian entrees (polenta, ravioli, penne, lasagna) just need a salad for a complete meal.
There are several vegetarian pizza and flatbread options, but many suffer from tough crust and skimpy toppings. The meatless sausage & cheese flatbread is one of the tastiest choices.
Frozen meat substitutes include burger patties, sausage, bacon, meatballs and chicken nuggets. My favorite among the bunch is the Morningstar sausage links.
The frozen fruits make great smoothies. Just blend with juice or soy milk. The frozen vegetables make easy additions to pasta, rice dishes and soups. Frozen green peas add much needed color to the gnocchi ala gorgonzola and roasted corn is a nice addition to just about any Mexican meal.
There are some interesting frozen desserts, including cheesecakes and fruit tarts, plus a standard selection of ice creams and sorbets.
Breakfast choices include the usual waffles and French toast, but also offer Danish pancakes, potato pancakes, quiche and croissants.