Trader Joes is an absolutely crucial part of my food life.

Lots of people assume that because Im a dietitian I eat perfectly (whatever that means).

But to me, a healthy diet is flexible and includes all foods, even processed ones.

Waffles with Yogurt and Mixed Berries

Jessica Jones, R.D.

After all, Im busy (Im sure you are too), and my days are never predictable.

Ravioli with Sauteed Spinach and Walnuts

This comforting meal is full of flavorandfiber.

I eat a version of this almost once a week because its quick and hits the spot every time.

Jessica Jones

And the walnuts are nice because they add a subtle crunch, plus a dose of unsaturated fatty acids.

While thats cooking, saute the spinach in garlic oil on medium heat until wilted.

Mix cooked pasta with spinach and top with an extra drizzle of olive oil and chopped walnuts.

Ravioli with Sauted Spinach and Walnuts

Add salt and pepper to taste.

The flavor is there, but they lack bulk.

Thats why I like to add extra fiber (plus protein) to make the meal more satisfying.

Dal with brown rice

They taste fresh and can be incorporated into almost anything, including this dal.

Add dal and lentils.

Cook for another 35 minutes until dal starts to boil.

Fried Rice with Extra Veggies and Protein

For added protein I use either extra-firm tofu or frozen shelled edamame.

To bump up the flavor, I add frozen crushed ginger with toasted sesame seed oil and coconut aminos.

Flip tofu every 12 minutes.

Yellow curry with chickpeas and brown rice

Add ginger and saute until cubes dissolve.

Lastly, add rice and veggies.

Cook for about 510 minutes or until soft.

Granola in a bowl with milk

Finish off with a tablespoon or two of coconut aminos and toasted sesame seed oil.

Its simple but always delivers in flavor.

Plus, its balanced A.F.

Egg and Pepperjack Cheese Sandwich on an Everything Ciabatta Roll

The best part: It only takes about 10 minutes to make, start to finish.

While thats cooking, heat up frozen rice.

Once the veggies are done, add the whole bottle of curry sauce and then chickpeas.

Waffles with Yogurt and Mixed Berries

Cook for another 3 minutes or so.

High-Protein Granola With Soy Milk and Sliced Fruit

Honestly, sometimes I cant even.

Thats where this basic (but filling) cereal comes in.

Image may contain Plant Food Produce Vegetable Dish and Meal

Add fruit to stay full even longer.

Ive been making it ever since!

Its delicious and has 21 grams of protein per serving.

Container of Chopped Frozen Garlic

Ingredients:Sliced Pepperjack CheeseFresh Hard-Cooked Peeled EggsEverything Ciabatta Rolls

Directions:Toast the sliced roll.

Add a slice of pepperjack and 1 sliced egg.

Waffles With Greek Yogurt and Mixed Berries

Who said breakfast had to be boring?!

The Greek yogurt is deliciously creamy and provides a hearty dose of protein that keeps me feeling full.

The berries are sweet, tart, and syrupy, but offer fiber and vitamins.

Add 12 a cup of Greek yogurt on top of each waffle and stack.

Cook the frozen berries in the microwave for 2 minutes and then pour on top.

But this is a new and improved version.

My secret taco ingredient iswait for itsauerkraut.

I like the nice, salty flavor and crunchy texture.

Plus, it helps that its really good for your gut health.

Add protein to shells then fill with butter lettuce (or any of your favorite veggies).

Top with T.J.s shredded Mexican cheese and sauerkraut.

I love eating garlic with everything.

But you know what takes time, requires cleanup, and makes my hands smell?

Enter Trader Joes pre-chopped frozen garlic cubes.

I use this as the base to 95% of my meals.

If you only get one thing from Trader Joes, get this.

They also have a frozen ginger versionanda garlic olive oil that Im equally obsessed with.