Trader Joe’s Best Appetizers, Dips, and Food Hacks — Updated Picks and New Additions

# What's new and why it matters Trader Joe's keeps adding portable, easy-to-serve items that work for potlucks, game days, and quick weeknight entertaining. This roundup highlights reader-favorite staples and the new items people recommended most, plus straightforward tips for serving them so you don't show up with soggy fries or a lukewarm dip.

# New must-try frozen and bakery items

• Trader Joe's Perfectly Pickled Pups: Mini uncured beef franks with dill, vinegar, garlic, and a pickle-dusted crust. Presented as an attention-getting appetizer for groups.

• Simit Turkish Sesame Bread: Plant-based sesame rings that look upscale and hold up on a charcuterie or bread board. They freeze well so you can thaw only what you need.
• Mini French Baguette (frozen): Small, crisp-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside baguettes that are easy to portion and versatile for sandwiches, dipping, or toasting.

# Reliable frozen favorites to keep on hand

• Potato Cheese Sticks: Kid-approved snack. For a crisp exterior, bake rather than microwave.
• Vegetable Dumplings: Bite-sized dumplings with chives, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and cabbage—easy to cook and serve as finger food.

• Mandarin Orange Chicken and Chicken Spring Rolls: Crowd-pleasing, easy warm options that work for kids and adults.

# Dips and spreads readers recommend again and again

• Unexpected Cheddar Cheese Spread: The most frequently suggested spread. Versatile with crackers, chips, or snack puffs.

• Vegan Caramelized Onion Dip: A repeat suggestion that provides a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.

# Pairings and small hacks that make service easier

• Corn chip dippers + Everything and the Elote dip: A simple, high-reward combo recommended multiple times.

• Portion and freeze: Many bakery items come frozen or freeze well. Keep extras in the freezer and thaw only what you need to avoid waste.

# Quick setup for a low-effort appetizer table

1. 1Heat one or two frozen warm options (potstickers, spring rolls, or mandu).
2. 2Place two dips on the table—one cheese-based, one vegan or veggie-based.
3. 3Add a crunchy vessel (baguette slices, simit rings, or corn dippers).
4. 4Label spicy items and vegan options so guests choose comfortably.

# Bottom line