I try to follow the Mediterranean diet on a tight budget. Here are 7 things I buy at Trader Joe's.

Alison Van GladJan 16, 2024, 01:22 IST

I try to buy affordable staples at Trader Joe's. Alison Van Glad

I'm on a budget and enjoy following a Mediterranean diet using ingredients from Trader Joe's.
Trader Joe's is my go-to for olive oil and afforable seasonal veggies.

Every time I travel to the Mediterranean, I find myself falling in love with the food over and over again at every meal.

When I return to the US after a trip, I combat my post-travel blues by enjoying many of the same foods at home. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes foods like fresh produce, whole grains, olive oil, fish, legumes, and eggs.

Fortunately, I've found that Trader Joe's is a great place for Mediterranean-inspired staples at a reasonable price.

Here are some of my favorite buys.

Olive oil is a standard in Mediterranean cooking, and for a good reason — it's simple and delicious.

My favorite Trader Joe's olive oil is $7.50 for a 16.9-fluid-ounce bottle.Alison Van Glad

Trader Joe's always has a large variety of fresh herbs.

I usually pay just under $2 for an ounce of fresh herbs at Trader Joe's. Alison Van Glad

A freshly sliced tomato adds the perfect crunch to a sandwich.

The cost varies, but I usually buy my favorite tomatoes on the vine for $2.50.Alison Van Glad

I know I'll be able to find fresh, in-season produce when I walk into Trader Joe's.

I recently grabbed an eggplant for under $2. Alison Van Glad

Most of my dishes use garlic and onions.

Heads of garlic and shallots are often under $1 a pop at Trader Joe's. Alison Van Glad

I always stock up on canned beans.

I use white beans to add protein to some dishes. Alison Van Glad

Pasta is my favorite comfort food, and Trader Joe's has plenty of varieties of it.

Trader Joe's has a ton of different pasta shapes. Alison Van Glad

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