The 6 Best New Products at Trader Joe's This Summer, According to Employees

From fruity freezer pops to savory snacks, see what Trader Joe’s employees are raving about this season.

As the temperatures rise, the folks at Trader Joe's know that our cravings for fresh, flavorful food, desserts and easy dinner options that don't have us hanging around a hot stove do, too. In the latest TJ's podcast, co-hosts Matt Sloan and Tara Miller share their favorite upcoming summer products. From grill-ready meats to refreshing freezer finds, the beloved grocery chain never fails to deliver an array of delicious, quick-to-prepare products that are perfect for the sunny season, and this year's lineup is no different!

Related: The Best Items to Buy at Trader Joe's, According to a Former Employee

Sweet Chili Mango Salad Kit

Classic summer fare can consist of heavy, mayo-laden salads and a lot of carb-forward sides—which all have their rightful time and place. But this flavor-packed, hearty green salad is a welcome addition! A vibrant blend of chopped, sturdy veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage,  kale, Brussels sprouts and radicchio comes together with crunchy sunflower seeds, toasted quinoa, dried mango and a delicious Thai-inspired sweet chili dressing. And if you know, you know–TJ's dried mango is like the nectar of the gods, especially the Chile Spiced Mango. All of the ingredients are chopped into small pieces so that you get a bit of everything in every bite. It's a definite summer salad win!

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Thigh Skewers

There's nothing quite like the smoky aroma of chicken sizzling on the grill—except, maybe, the convenience of having said chicken already cooked and ready to go. Coated in a bright, herbaceous chimichurri sauce, these pre-grilled chicken thigh skewers are fully cooked and (almost) ready to serve. Simply reheat them on the grill (or in the oven or air fryer). It's the ultimate grill-and-chill dinner option for fuss-free summer nights.

Caramelized Onion & Bell Pepper Turkey Patties

When it comes to burgers, turkey often gets a bad rap for being dry and flavorless. But Trader Joe's is here to shatter that stereotype. Made with 100% thigh meat and infused with the savory-sweet goodness of caramelized onions and bell peppers, these pre-formed patties are "super juicy" and bursting with flavor. For a leaner protein option that doesn't skimp on taste, fire up the grill, stack these patties onto a fresh brioche bun loaded with your favorite toppings, and dig into "one of the best turkey burgers (Trader Joe's has) ever had!" says Alex, a guest on the podcast episode.

Unexpected Cheddar Cheese Spread with Hatch Chile

If you have a tough time resisting the allure of a good cheese spread, welcome to the club! We love cheese in all its delicious forms. But this spicy Cheddar spread with hatch chile is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the creamy richness of TJ's beloved Unexpected Cheddar with the irresistible heat of New Mexican Hatch chiles, bell peppers and a touch of cayenne. It's excellent for smearing onto your favorite crackers or bread, as a dip for veggies or chips or as an instant flavor hack that takes a burger or sandwich to new heights.

Organic Freezer Pops

Is there anything more quintessentially summer than an ice-cold freezer pop? The TJ's freezer pops are a delightful blast from the past but with a modern, more health-conscious twist. Made with 100% fruit juice and no added sugar, they're a welcome alternative to many of their competitors. The pops come in three refreshing flavors: Orange, Berry and tart and tangy Cherry Limeade. Whether you're looking for a guaranteed kid-pleaser or a poolside pick-me-up any adult would relish, these freezer pops will hit the spot. Just "shake, freeze, squeeze [and] enjoy," says Miller.

Coffee Ice Cream Mochi

If you enjoy a good cup of joe, these bite-sized sweets are for you! Trader Joe's newest ice cream-filled mochi is a fun, refreshing twist on a favorite morning beverage. These little mochi balls feature a soft, chewy exterior made from pounded sticky rice that encases a creamy coffee-flavored ice cream center. Not only are they a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, but they're also certified gluten-free, making them a safe choice for those with dietary restrictions or celiac disease. Whether for a post-meal sweet bite or a mid-afternoon coffee alternative, these chewy little orbs are a delightful way to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Trader Joe's latest seasonal offerings are a sign from the universe to embrace the art of easy summer living. And from the freezer to the grill, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that! New products will arrive at your local store weekly throughout the summer, but there are already more than a few great finds there now. So reapply your sunscreen, fill your tumbler and pack a few reusable shopping bags because it's time to go shopping!

Related: The #1 Underrated Frozen Side to Buy at Trader Joe’s, According to a Food Editor

Read the original article on Eating Well.