As we spring forward without that extra hour of sleep this week (oof), at least we can appreciate the extra hour of daylight that hints at warmer days ahead. And, if there’s a flavor I associate with warmer and sunnier days, it’s lemon.

That’s why I’ve picked out 5 of my favorite lemon picks to grab now at your nearest Trader Joe’s.

I may still need my winter coat and gloves throughout the month, but at least I can eat like it’s spring, right?

Trader Joe’s Lemon Picks: Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli

When I saw these little pasta pillows on the Trader Joe’s website, I was saddened to see that they’ve been “archived” which means they are no longer for sale in the stores. However after visiting my own local TJs —  lo and behold — there they were! So, keep your eyes open for TJ’s Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli because this combo of flavors is delicious.

I would serve it with a simple brown butter sauce to get a pasta dinner on the table in short order, or check out this Trader Joe’s salad recipe which pairs it with peppery arugula, nutty pine nuts, shaved parmesan, and a light dressing.

This is a great way to get some greens into your belly, though you can substitute milder-tasting baby spinach for the arugula if you think your kids will like that more.

Trader Joe’s Lemon Picks: Spatchcocked Lemon Rosemary Chicken

Another super-easy dinner idea, this Spatchcocked Lemon Rosemary Chicken hangs out in a tangy lemon marinade until you’re ready to roast it in the oven or toss it on the grill. It takes about an hour to cook, but requires very little TLC from you, so you can throw together a salad, help with homework, or check your Instagram feed while the main course prepares itself.

I’d serve this with roasted potatoes and a veggie for an impressive dinner that only looks like you spent a long time on it.

Recipe: How to spatchcock a turkey and have it ready to eat in just about one hour

Trader Joe’s Lemon Picks: Meyer Lemon Cookie Thins

Not-too-tart and not-too-sweet, these crispy little Meyer Lemon Cookie Thins fit a whole lot of flavor into a skinny little cookie. Also, each serving is nine whole cookies, which—wow!—- is a pretty decent number for me to nibble through when I need a snack. I mean, who can stop after one cookie?

These are sophisticated-looking cookies that are perfect with a spot o’ tea. Or, turn these thin crisps into a sandwich cookie using the recipe for Strawberry Lemonade Sandwich Cookies from the Trader Joe’s website (photo shown at top of page). These flavors would all go together so well.

Trader Joe’s Lemon Picks: Lemon and Ginger Juice Seltzer Water

As someone obsessed the flavors of both ginger and lemon, I cannot wait to try the new Lemon and Ginger Juice Seltzer Water. With only three ingredients — carbonated water, organic lemon juice, and organic ginger juice — this would make a delicious no-alcohol soda alternative, or add a little splash of your favorite spirit for an evening cocktail. Cheers!

Trader Joe’s Lemon Picks: Lemon Curd

I like to keep a jar of Trader Joe’s Lemon Curd on hand for a quick dessert topping, though it’s also great mixed into plain yogurt or spread on toast when I’m in need of a quick breakfast. Should I feel a little more ambitious, check out the recipe for British Cream Scones (above)  from Cooking with Trader Joe’s, which look scrumptious.

RIP to Joe Coulombe, founder of Trader Joe’s ,who passed away on February 28, 2020. Our condolences to his family and friends.

Tags: chicken, cookies, dinner, food products, food shopping, fruit, fun finds, pasta