Whether you're slurping them up at a local fusion hot spot or straight out of a takeout box, Asian noodles make the perfect cold-weather comfort food. Don't feel like hitting the town or dialing for delivery? From pad Thai and pho to Singapore noodles and ramen soup, these 40 recipes are easy to whip up right in your own kitchen, no reservations required.
In true unhinged fashion, every trip I make down the aisles of Trader Joe's is a solid scattering of "Oh, this looks good!" and "Hmm, what's that?" Mr. Joe's got this grocery thing down to a science, and I am a victim of his snacky delights — just ask my wallet. Here are my latest faves, thoroughly taste-tested to tell you what's hot – or not. 🔥
I’ve had my fair share of Asian noodle dishes, but with little convincing that I could *actually* recreate them at home. That was until the Thai Wheat Noodles caught my eye among the chaotic aisles of Trader Joe’s.
These shelf-stable noodles retain a tender texture, even though they come pre-cooked and ready-to-eat in plastic wrap – all life-saving qualities when it comes to me whipping up a last-minute lunch. All they need is a quick toss with some prepped protein and veg in a skillet, and you’ve got a filling meal ready in mere minutes! Convenience is key in this busy life of ours, but these strands don’t dare to spare good quality. It’s a 10/10 for me!
The thick Thai Wheat Noodles paired *so* swimmingly with my next pick: the Trader Joe’s Soyaki Sauce. Based on dated online reviews, this salty sauce has been around for a hot minute, which made me feel truly foolish that I hadn’t given it a try since. If you’re somewhat of a Soyaki connoisseur, just know I’m ashamed of me, too. 😔
I’m really not joking when I say I put the Soyaki Sauce on every subsequent dish for the entire week after I bought it. Whether it was a curious medley of sautéed vegetables, pan-seared chicken breast, or marinated tofu, I just couldn’t resist the overwhelming impression of ~sodium.~ I am a super salty gal, after all. 10/10 goes to the Soyaki!
Who needs a detailed cocktail recipe when you’ve got this spicy juice and some Tito’s on-hand? At least, that’s how taste testing the Organic Jalapeño Limeade made me feel. A typical Friday night turned obnoxiously fun-filled, just by mixing the two!
The limeade (admittedly enjoyed at room temperature) supplied a refreshing sip, and it was honestly yummy enough to indulge in on its own. My palette barely ever caught a hint of the added vodka, too – likely due to the hefty jalapeño kick. That may be perceived as dangerous, *but* I was feeling daring! This bev earns a 9/10 from moi.
I prefer to bake my muffins fresh, just like The Muffin Man would. And though they were delish, the Gluten-Free Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins I got from Trader Joe’s earned the bulk of their points for sheer convenience.
Despite being gluten-free, each fist-sized muffin was insanely moist. I’m even not sure how the cliche that GF treats are desert-dry got in my brain in the first place – the amount of good AF gluten-free desserts (including these baked goods in question) I’ve had recently have certainly changed my mind.
Anywho, the Coffee Cake Muffins bring breakfast convenience to the next level – just grab and go, and you’re golden. Beyond the A.M., these big boys make for a mouthwatering midnight snack when warmed up and served alongside a single scoop of ice cream. 8/10! 👩🍳
I had been waiting to get my grubby little hands on the Perfectly Pickled Pups for months – and it finally happened one day in early June. As a certified Brine Lover, the tiny dogs just seemed like the *perfect* pickle-y snack (the product name truly sold me), soaked in a mischievous mix of dill, garlic, and sea salt, then tossed in a crunchy layer of batter and breadcrumbs.
The bite-sized franks did not disappoint once on flavor. If I already drool for pickle-flavored snacks like popcorn and potato chips, I knew that the Perfectly Pickled Pups were made for me. What added some real magic to my culinary experience was an effortless 8-10 minute air-fry, and a dipping ramekin full of dill pickle ranch – yes, it’s a thing.
My only gripe with The Pups was that they were way too small and went way too quickly (only 9 dogs per box). My longing for the pickled dogs will be everlasting… at least until I buy another batch. I declare these puppies a 9/10.Life is *anything* but dull when you’ve got a spicy-sweet snack to munch on. The Strawberry & Jalapeño Crisps from TJ’s delivered this complementary flavor pairing, all while being salaciously satisfying on the texture front.
The excellently thin crackers boast bits of dried jalapeños and strawberries that have some chew to them – the rest of the buttermilk biscuit rounds out every jammy bite, which I’d recommend taking with a generous morsel of goat cheese.
These crisps are ideal for elevated picnics or collaborative charcuterie boards. They go beyond your plain ol’ cracker in terms of flavor and feel, which is why I give the Strawberry & Jalapeño Crisps a favorable 9/10.
In the vein of easy dinners, the Trader Joe’s frozen section is a godsend. That’s *exactly* where I landed on this bag of BBQ Teriyaki Chicken, in an effort to spend as little time as possible making a meal.
All it required of me was a few minutes in the skillet – the pre-cooked chicken and BBQ teriyaki sauce packets included made the process easier than easy, and the result was a surprisingly satisfying meal. Each nug of dark meat met a glaze-like coating of sauce that packed in flavor.
And though I’d rather cook something fresh, I have my lazy girl moments from time to time – which is why I’d reach for the BBQ Teriyaki Chicken again. 8/10 rating!
The checkout line is where Trader Joe’s gets the best of even the most streamlined shopper. They’re constantly waving items in front of your face that look wayyyy too good for words – the chocolate and mints section up front is where I get stuck – it’s like a death trap for my wallet, but a serene oasis for my sweet tooth. 🤪
This time, my sweet tooth ushered me right to the Chai Tea Mints. Each leaf-shaped mint genuinely tastes like a chai latte with a minty hint, and provides an easy midday pick-me-up. Spicy yet sweet, the tidbits have a forever home in my purse – and by the time they run out, maybe TJ’s will have another killer mint flavor waiting for me. 8/10 for me.
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Images via Trader Joe's
When it comes to New Year's Eve celebrations, the first thought that probably springs to mind is boozing it up with an NYE cocktail. And while there's nothing wrong with sipping some bubbly (if that's your inclination), those of us who prefer to keep thingsnon-alc may feel like there are no New Year's-appropriate activities for our preferences. We say that nothing could be further from the truth! Whether you're pregnant, abstaining, or just taking a break from the booze, here are 10 fun ideas for ringing in 2025, the sober way.
A few years ago, just as the sober-curious movement was gaining steam, companies like Daybreaker brought 6 a.m. sober dance parties to the masses. In a similar vein are remote silent discos – events where you put your headphones on and dance it out to the music of world-class DJs right in the comfort of your own home (or in person, if you feel like venturing out).
A quick Google search will reveal that there are tons of options to shake it off on New Year's Eve, whether remotely or in-person in your city. Because silent discos have an alternative vibe, they're much more sober-friendly than traditional clubs and dance parties.
Photo by Jill Wellington / PEXELS
If you've ever been to a party where they had aProsecco bar or something similar, you know how fun themed bars can be. Why not make a NA equivalent with a tea bar? We're not just talking about hot water and tea bags... include exciting staples like bubble tea, kombucha, Southern-style sweet iced tea, and more!
Brit + Co
Not in the mood to party this year? Celebrate the New Year with some introspection by doing a goal-setting ritual. You can design the ritual in whatever manner you like, but we recommend something along the lines of:
Brit + Co
Before New Year's Eve, head to your local craft store and pick up some supplies for making an old-fashioned scrapbook. Print out some photos from your most treasured memories of the year (we like printing with Walgreens), and gather any magazines you purchased or journal entries you wrote.
You can also look up some news headlines that made an impact on you, and print out the article as well as photos of any notable celebs or politicians who made the news. On New Year's eve, put together a scrapbook of what made 2024, 2024.
Good, bad, or otherwise, the year was one to remember — so create a momento that will help you re-live the past year in the years to come.
Brit + Co
Believe it or not, masquerade balls, dressing up in costumes, and concealing one's identity have a long history in the historical celebrations of Christmastime. So we think a New Year's costume party is a fully appropriate idea for a sober New Year's Eve.
Who needs booze to have fun when you can dress up as whoever you want for a night of merriment and mystery?
Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS
Another fun party pastime that's fun with or without booze? Singing! Grab some friends for a sober karaoke night either at your house or a private karaoke room. The singing's bound to be better than it would be if you were imbibing... who knows, maybe you'll steal the show with your rendition of "I'm Just Ken."
Whether you're spending the evening with your S/O or your BFF, cook a fancydinner for two. New Year's Eve is the perfect time to get fancy with food, so use this opportunity to ring in 2025 with only the finest cuisine. Don't forget to make a mocktail to go with!
Brit + Co
Bring all your besties over and host a board game night that's sure to be one for the books. Have everyone bring their favorite game – from Cards Against Humanity to Codenames – for a riotous evening that will remind you that you absolutely don't need booze to have a rowdy night of laughter!
Photo by Askar Abayev / PEXELS
Before New Year's Eve, compile a long list of trivia questions about 2024. Alternatively, have a friend do it for you, or do a quick Google search... there are a lot of trivia quizzes out there. On the big night, gather your squad together to see how much you remember about 2024. The results may surprise you!
Image via Amazon
Murder-mystery dinners are still one of the best ways to facilitate a heart-racing and mind-boggling party. Pick up one of the many murder mystery dinner kits out there and have your besties over for a night of thinking on your toes — to be fair, it's probably best to skip the booze for this idea anyway, for the sake of your mental acuity.
Are you planning a sober New Year's Eve party this year? Tweet us @BritandCo to share your plans, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more booze-free hacks and party ideas!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations. This post has been updated.
We all have that go-to Asian dish when it comes to ordering takeout. For me, it's always a spicy Pad Kee Mao with tofu. Relying on your favorite neighborhood spot for dinner is easy, but what if we told you cooking at home could be even easier? These Asian noodle recipes are here to prove that you don't need to be a star chef to craft your ride-or-die bites. Scroll for 16 easy recipes packed with veggies and protein that you can whip up any night of the week!
Thai chiles heat things up in this noodle dish. It's super easy to customize this meal, too, with your choice of veggies and protein! (via Cilantro Parsley)
You can throw all of the veggies you have on-hand into this noodle recipe for an effortless dinner. Whether it's edamame or broccoli, the additions pair swimmingly with the homemade peanut sauce. (via Two Spoons)
Each forkful of this cold noodle salad supplies a hefty crunch, suitable for those summer days when you just want to cool off. (via Chef Bai)
Carrot-based noodles (if zoodles are a thing, certainly coodles can be, too?) replace regular vermicelli or udon ones in this easy Asian noodle recipe. They turn out to brighten up the dish, instead of weighing it down. (via The Endless Meal)
Enjoy this Asian noodle meal knowing that it's fully gluten-free. Halloumi adds some deserved cheesy and salty flavor elements to fistfuls of satisfying umami-infused noodles. (via Rachel Mansfield)
This chilled noodle salad recipe will become an overnight sensation in your household. It's packed with nourishing vegetables and drizzled in a truly addictive peanut sauce. (via Munching with Mariyah)
Nests of egg noodles form the base of this tasty noodle recipe. For stir fry toppings, basically any veggie will fit right in with this dish's spice. (via Signature Concoctions)
This recipe allows you to chef up your own chili garlic sauce. Umami flavors for the win! (via Takes Two Eggs)
This Pad Kee Mao noodle recipe beats takeout any day. The best part about making this dish at home is you have the power to control your desired spice level. I love a 4 out of 5! (via A Spicy Perspective)
Kimchi brings mouthwatering fermented notes to udon noodles and forms a cozy meal altogether! (via Live Eat Learn)
Add some air-fried tofu or any other protein of your choice to these vegan noodles. No matter what you choose, your addition will get smothered in a mind-blowingly delicious peanut sauce. (via Veggie Society)
Get excited, because these garlicky noodles are all said and done in a matter of 30 minutes. Weeknights are saved! (via This Wife Cooks)
Udon noodles are the best because they're thick in size and balanced in texture. In this easy Asian noodle recipe, they shine among handfuls of spinach, carrot, and mushrooms of your choice. (via Gastroplant)
You only need 10 accessible ingredients to form this noodle dish! Though they taste amazing alone, the noodles also pair well with seared tofu, broccoli, and pickled ginger. (via No Eggs Or Ham)
The Instant Pot makes this recipe even more seamless. The noodles soak up a flavorful mixture of white wine vinegar, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sriracha. (via The Girl On Bloor)
If you've ever dreamed of eating the rainbow, now's your chance. This easy noodle bowl recipe adds mounds of colorful veggies atop a bed of vermicelli and steak. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Sign up for our newsletter for more easy recipe ideas, and tag us with your easy Asian noodle recipes on Instagram!
Lead image via Live Eat Learn
As fun as Trader Joe’s snacks and desserts are, there’s one aisle you definitely should not skip – and that’s their plant section. Trader Joe’s is constantly stocking up on blooms like orchids and monsteras, all of which are easy to take care of once they make it home from the store.
Any houseplant lover knows the easiest of all easy houseplants is the famed pothos. I can water mine (I have about 5 pothos plants) once every two weeks, and they will. not. die. Right now, Trader Joe’s is selling pothos for cheap – but not just any pothos. They currently come along with a stunning hanging pot that you’ll instantly want to put up in your home.
That’s right – Trader Joe’s shelves now include disco ball hanging planters. I repeat: disco ball hanging planters! The sphere-shaped pot is covered in reflective disco tiles that’ll certainly make your living room feel like a dance club. The best part is that pothos plants naturally look amazing when they’re grown hanging, so you can watch this baby flourish all year long.
TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed recently spotted the disco ball hanging planters at their local Trader Joe’s and shared the new find with their Instagram followers. Tons of them chimed in about their excitement for the product in the comments!
“I need this now😍,” one person commented.
“The way I gasped when I saw this 😍🪩,” another said.
“I bought one today and totally love it👍,” someone else commented.
“I suddenly need to buy more plants,” one more person wrote.
Several shoppers in the comment section noted that they were able to track down the disco ball hanging planters pretty easily, while others reported that they haven’t seen them in their stores quite yet. This is your sign to keep an eye out on your next TJ’s trip!
@traderjoesobsessed reports that the disco ball hanging planters go for $12.99 in stores. Their affordable price makes them such a great gift for yourself or a loved one, plus the sparkles on the disco ball are perfect for livening up your space for a New Year’s refresh.
Run to TJ’s soon – I know I will!
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By now, you may be able to recognize signs of gaslighting or other toxicbehaviors, but do you know how to take everything you've learned and become a super compatible couple? According to experts, there are a few key things super compatible couples rarely argue about — even with whatever faults each person brings to the relationship table. While the topics these couples avoid may not surprise you, the reason why they're able to avoid them might. But first, let's talk about what makes couples more compatible than others.
Dr. Brooke Keels, Ph.D., LPC-MHSP, LPC-Supervisor, Chief Clinical Officer at Lighthouse Recovery, has this to say: "Couples are compatible when they share similar values, goals, and know the best way to communicate with each other." Notice she didn't say these couples are just alike.
More so, she explains that "it's about how well they handle differences, whether they can support each other through tough times, and how they connect emotionally." Dr. Keels adds, "when there’s respect, trust, and a good balance of give-and-take between them?" Dr. Keels believes this gives couples a better chance "to be in sync."
Have you ever dated someone that made you wonder what you saw in them once you pay attention to certain red flags? You may have found yourself arguing with them about everything from religion to reproductive health, leaving you feeling dizzy afterwards. But Dr. Keels says compatible couples are more likely to be aligned on "whether they want the same things out of life."
Her examples include:
"This common ground lessens the chance of fighting over these big topics," Dr. Keels reiterates.
We're no strangers to indecisive moments where we couldn't agree about what to do on the weekends with our partners, but Dr. Keels says compatible couples don't always run into this issue. "When you enjoy similar activities or have overlapping hobbies, you're more like to find ways to unwind together, rather than feeling disconnected or frustrated by each other's choices," she adds.
While it varies from couple to couple, you and your partner may enjoy the following:
The possibilities are endless, but all that matters is that "this mutual understanding makes spending time together feel natural and fun," according to Dr. Keels.
Some people have a more direct way of communicating while others may be passive or even passive-aggressive. Less arguments aren't happening because compatible couples communicate the same however. "When they both understand each other's communication style — whether it's direct or more subtle — it helps avoid misunderstandings and frustration."
Here's a couple of examples:
Compatible couples "know how to express their feelings and needs in a way that the other person can easily understand" which makes "it easier to resolve issues calmly," according to Dr. Keels.
Well, no. That's actually a stretch because everyone has arguments. "Even compatible couples can argue about everyday things like chores or schedules. No matter how well they get along or how "in sync" they are, little annoyances can still pop up here and there, and cause some tension between them," Dr. Keels shares. "The difference," she points out, "is that they're usually better at handling these moments and keeping them from turning into bigger problems."
The other thing she's seen couples argue about is money. "It's such a common stress point because everyone has different habits and priorities when it comes to spending or saving," she says. But, guess what? "Compatible couples tend to approach the conversation with more understanding and a willingness to find a compromise," she continues.
If you feel like you and your partner aren't on the same page, it may not be time to break up just yet. We've learned that that it can take time to effectively communicate with a romantic partner or understand them. Compatibility is great, but it's not an indicator that a relationship will be smooth sailing!
Like we said, getting to a point where you and your partner aren't consistently hurting each other's feelings during disagreements takes time as well as skill. No one's born knowing all the answers so don't think your relationship is over because you're still figuring things out.
Dr. Keels says one way you and your partner can work on the kind of disagreements you're having is by "knowing how to communicate/compromise." Look, we heard your sigh and know it's probably the antithesis of how you feel. We struggled with compromising, but you don't get far in life thinking that everyone else has to bend to your will all the time.
"Even if they don’t see eye to eye all the time, healthy couples listen to each other's perspectives, and look for solutions that work for both of them. It’s not about 'winning' the argument and getting to say who's right, but finding common ground so they can move forward together," adds Dr. Keels.
Also, "staying respectful event when things get heated or when you're upset" is a way to have a productive arguments, according to Dr. Keels. What happens is that "healthy couples avoid yelling or saying hurting things during disagreements," she says. This means no cursing or raising voices to the point your next door neighbors feel they have to call the police to do a wellness check on you.
"Instead, they just focus on the real problem and stay calm, which helps them work through the issue without hurting each other and the relationship," Dr. Keels says. And in the event you and your partner can't find common ground in a given moment? She highly suggests you "take breaks or pause when things get too heated."
Couples who do this "know when to step away and cool off before continuing the conversation," she adds. There are times where it's difficult to have a proper conversation when you're anxious or angry, so it's always better to revisit the topic.
Dr. Keels agrees and says, "This gives them a chance to cool down first so they can properly think things through, and think of a solution that works for both of them without saying anything they might regret."
Visit more of our relationships articles to find more advice about navigating friendships and love.
