I'm a 'zillennial' struggling to survive inflation. Here's what I buy for one at Trader Joe's to keep my budget tight and eat well.

Shelby Denise Smith May 29, 2024, 15:18 IST

I'm a "zillennial" who shops at Trader Joe's. Shelby Denise Smith

I live just outside of New York City and shop at Trader Joe's for groceries each week.
As someone living and working in pricey states, I enjoy Trader Joe's food selection and prices.

With the rising prices of essentials pushing the cost of living up, I've had to tighten my budget wherever possible in the past few months.

As a "zillennial" (someone in the middle of the Millennial and Gen Z generations) who lives in New Jersey and commutes to New York City for work, I also have to deal with inflation in two of the most expensive states to live in,

I've become creative with my recipes to keep my grocery budget low, and Trader Joe's price points and tasty options allow me to do so.

Here are groceries I typically buy for just myself on my weekly trips to Trader Joe's.

Eggs are always on my shopping list.

Since I use eggs in my baked goods and prepare them for breakfast most days, they must remain stocked in my kitchen.Shelby Denise Smith

Spinach is my vegetable of choice so I usually grab a bag.

I add spinach to my wraps. Shelby Denise Smith

Guacamole is one of my go-to snacks.

I buy Trader Joe's chunky guacamole. Shelby Denise Smith

Tomatoes add a farm-fresh flavor to my meals.

Tomatoes are quite versatile. Shelby Denise Smith

I depend on tortillas throughout the week.

I use tortillas for wraps and to make homemade chips. Shelby Denise Smith

Mayonnaise is my one-size-fits-all condiment.

Mayonnaise has a decent shelf life. Shelby Denise Smith

Trader Joe's has a great selection of frozen pizzas.

Frozen pizzas are my cheat meal.Shelby Denise Smith

I end my week with frozen dinners.

I especially enjoy Trader Joe's Indian-inspired frozen meals. Shelby Denise Smith

Mandarins help me satisfy my sweet tooth.

Mandarins are a great snack after a meal. Shelby Denise Smith

Turkey burgers don't take much effort to make.

I use ground turkey to make a few turkey burgers for the week. Shelby Denise Smith

Trader Joe's pancake bread is heaven-sent.

If I am going to buy sweets, it'll probably be Trader Joe's pancake bread. Shelby Denise Smith

I tried fried-chicken recipes from Guy Fieri, Ina Garten, and Alton Brown, and the best called for pickle juice and hot sauce

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