7 Easy Trader Joe's Recipes for Lunch or Dinner

If you've been searching for quick and delicious meals that won't keep you in the kitchen for hours, my recipes roundup of easy Trader Joe's recipes are perfect for you! These easy meals keep things as simple as possible, using Trader Joe's ingredients that you can find at your local store. Whether you prefer sheet pan meals, 4-ingredient recipes, or just need a good idea for those busy weeknights, these recipes are the best way to bring a delicious meal to your dinner table. 

Looking to bring Trader Joe's to your Thanksgiving table this year? Check out my post on Trader Joe’s Thanksgiving for 2. 

1. Air Fried Cauliflower Gnocchi

If you're a fan of Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi, you've got to try cooking it in the air fryer! This method achieves a satisfyingly crispy texture that's unlike traditional cooking methods that can leave it soggy. 

What makes this recipe even better is that it's incredibly easy and quick to make. Simply toss the gnocchi in oil spray, and then cook them in the air fryer until golden brown. 

Pair this gnocchi with a classic red sauce, a creamy alfredo, or a simple olive oil and garlic combination. And if you're looking to add some protein to your meal, options like garlic butter salmon, frozen salmon, Persian chicken, or chicken cutlets all pair wonderfully with the crispy gnocchi.

2. Air Fried Chicken Shawarma

This recipe is your ticket to a quick, delicious, and hassle-free Middle Eastern-inspired meal. Using the marinated Chicken Shawarma from Trader Joe's, you can have this mouthwatering dish on your plate in just 20 minutes. 

What I love about this recipe is that the shawarma spice marinade is already done for you! This dish is packed with aromatic Middle Eastern spices for a Persian-inspired meal. Using the air fryer is low-mess and low-oil and keeps the chicken thighs perfectly juicy. Pair the shawarma chicken with sides like cauliflower rice, tzatziki, and fresh veggies (All of which you can get from TJ's!) for a complete meal. 

3. Air Fried Argentinian Shrimp

If you're a seafood lover looking for an easy way to cook delicious shrimp, this Trader Joe's Argentinian shrimp recipe has got you covered! The shrimp is easy to make and does not have any breading like panko or cornmeal. Plus, it's super versatile! Serve the shrimp in tacos, on salads, on rice, or with pasta.

To make the shrimp, simply defrost and then toss in a bit of olive oil and spices like garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place them in the air fryer for 8 minutes, and you've got a delicious meal ready to goz.

Serve the shrimp with Trader Joe's Pasta, mixed with their Green Goddess Dressing, for a perfectly delicious and easy dinner. 

4. Lentil Bruschetta Flatbread

This flatbread recipe is one of my all-time favorite meals! Trader Joe’s Lentil Bruschetta Flatbread is prepared and on the table in just 15 minutes. You can make it in either an oven or an air fryer. Plus, there’s zero mess! You’ll be left with just a bowl to clean. 

This simple recipe combines Trader Joe's steamed lentils, bruschetta topping, and a little oregano to spread on Trader Joe's Flatbread, with a generous sprinkle of their shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in an oven or air fryer for a great option for a super quick lunch or dinner!

5. Year-Round Salad

Trader Joe's Year Round Salad is my go-to favorite salad recipe for an easy weeknight dinner or a large gathering. It only takes 10 minutes to put together, using ingredients from Trader Joe's! Most of these ingredients are already pantry staples in your kitchen. 

The basics of the salad are to combine greens, fruit, cheese, nuts, protein, and salad dressing. I personally love building my salad using Trader Joe's Spring Mix and their arugula, red grapes, apples, feta cheese, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and dried cherries. Top it off with a Balsamic dressing for a tangy and delicious flavor. 

The best part about this salad is that it's not only easy to make, but it's also versatile! You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what's in season for a delicious dinner. 

Want to grow this meal with additional appetizers? My post on Trader Joe's Frozen Appetizers is perfect for you! 

6. Air Fried Orange Chicken

Trader Joe's Orange Chicken is a fan-favorite, and for good reason. It's a quick and easy meal that's packed with flavor. All you need is a bag of Trader Joe's Orange Chicken and a few simple ingredients to make it even better! To prepare the orange chicken, all you have to do is place the frozen chicken in your air fryer for 13 minutes!  The result is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside deliciousness. Serve with rice (Try my Fluffy Rice recipe here) and top with scallions and sesame seeds.  

7. Pesto Cauliflower Gnocchi

This recipe takes Trader Joe's Cauliflower Gnocchi to the next level! It is an excellent option for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It only calls for 7 ingredients, and it can be ready in less than 20 minutes, making it the perfect easy weeknight meal. 

To make pesto cauliflower gnocchi, toss the gnocchi in the air fryer for 15 minutes, then add to a mixture of drained chickpeas, pesto, sun-dried tomato, and lemon. Serve with your favorite salmon dish for a protein-rich meal!

Love these Trader Joe's meals? Check out my Trader Joe's Cookbook for even more easy recipes!

​These seven easy Trader Joe's meals are a game-changer for home cooks seeking quick and delicious lunches or dinners. With a range of flavors and ingredients, from Cauliflower Gnocchi to Chicken Shawarma Thighs and Argentinian Shrimp, these easy dinner recipes offer a wide variety that will satisfy any palate, all with ingredients from the grocery store! Whether you're a fan of Trader Joe's or simply looking for convenient and tasty meal options, these recipes provide a great starting point for adding flavor and variety to your kitchen.