12 Delicious Ways To Use Trader Joe's Garlic Spread

Trader Joe's is well-known (and loved) for its dips, spreads, and sauces, which routinely parade in and out of stores across the country. New iterations pop up seasonally or whenever the TJ's team gets a flood of inspiration. Shoppers rarely care why or when, all that matters is that they "keep em coming." Some are total newbies and others longstanding favorites — but by far one of the most versatile of them all is the Trader Joe's Garlic Spread Dip.

This is a product I've loved experimenting with, especially as the name itself hints to mysterious multi-faceted potential. Is it a dip, a spread, or some kind of magic potion somewhere in between? It's actually all of that and more. Trader Joe's Garlic Spread-Dip is sold as a savory refrigerated spread/dip, but the simple ingredient list hints to all kinds of culinary shenanigans. Only five things create this tub of spread: canola oil, fresh garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, and citric acid. It's easy to use it for veggie dipping or spreading across breads and crackers, but it holds so much more potential.

This garlic mixture closely resembles toum, the fluffy, emulsified garlic sauce that's a staple of Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, where it's often served with shawarma, grilled kebabs, and falafels. In keeping with the tradition of versatility, here are 12 tasty ways to use Trader Joe's interpretation of this aromatic, pungent, and citrusy garlic spread.

This bright, flavorful garlic spread brilliantly perks up hot roasted vegetables fresh from the oven, such as crisped cauliflower, carrots, baby potatoes, broccolini, and more. Add right before serving so that the heat gently softens the dip as it melts into nooks and crannies. I prefer thinning a few spoonfuls with a squeeze of lemon juice, then drizzling over the entire tray and topping with fresh herbs.

One of my favorite ways to use TJ's Garlic Spread is as a spreadable condiment for crispy chicken sandwiches. With the sharpness of garlic, the brightness of lemon, and a rich whipped texture, it makes an ordinary sandwich feel special. Swipe generously on each half of a toasted bun before layering on crunchy chicken, shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a bit of hot honey for contrast.

Several versions of flatbreads tuck within Trader Joe's freezers and shelves, all compatible with this garlic spread dip. Layer on the spread, then top with whatever strikes your fancy. From mushrooms to caramelized onions, artichoke hearts, spinach, thinly sliced cucumbers, cooked chicken, lamb meatballs — anything goes. As it bakes, the spread becomes creamy, and the garlic flavor slightly mellows. Finish with arugula, chili flakes, dill, or other herbs.

A spoonful or two of this garlic spread stirred into hot pasta creates an instant creamy sauce. I love it with spaghetti, linguine, or even cheese tortellini. Add sautéed spinach, peas, asparagus, shrimp, or shredded rotisserie chicken, and it suddenly tastes like a full-on dinner you've labored over for hours. Give it a quick shower of Parmesan or cracked black pepper to taste.

Whether grilling cobbed corn or char-baking in an oven, slather on a thin layer of TJ's garlic spread while the ears are still hot. The warmth helps it soften into a melty coating that clings beautifully to charred kernels. For a shortcut on Mexican street corn (elote) with a major garlic twist, finish with lime, chopped cilantro, cotija, smoked paprika, or chile powder.

Trader Joe's Garlic Spread makes an excellent base for potato salad dressing because it already has body and tang. I like to whisk it with a little olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, and black pepper, then toss with warm baby potatoes so that they absorb every tidbit of flavor. Add scallions, dill, parsley, celery, or chopped cornichons for fresh crunchiness. It's creamier than vinaigrette-based potato salad but snazzier than mayo-heavy versions.

For a major transformation, spoon this garlicky spread into a bowl of creamy Trader Joe's Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper boxed soup. It adds richness with no need for extra cream, while the garlic-lemon infusion creates a layered flavor profile. It also works well with basil tomato soup or even earthy lentil soups with fresh tomatoes. Top with extra decorative swirls for fancy effect.

This TJ's Garlic Spread is an excellent sidekick for grilled salmon, especially when craving something smooth and vibrant without making sauce from scratch. Serving it on the side lets everyone add as much (or as little) as desired. The bold garlic flavor plays well with the richness of salmon, while a lemony tang keeps everything balanced. Add some fresh chopped dill or cracked pepper for finishing finesse.

If you're tired of the usual ketchup-mayo-mustard routine, this TJ's spread becomes an instant and interesting burger condiment. A thick smear on beef, turkey, or veggie burgers ups the personality profile of even the humblest patties. My friends like pairing it with caramelized onions, arugula, and a slice of provolone or havarti. It's one of the easiest ways to make burger night feel fun again.

Trader Joe's hummus and tzatziki dips occupy a fond space in my food repertoire, but it's totally possible to create homemade alternatives with this TJ's garlic spread. Blend it into smashed white beans with olive oil and lemon, just until it's all smooth and dreamy. Top with a homemade za'atar spice, chopped parsley, toasted pine nuts, or a drizzle of olive oil, then serve with pita chips and crunchy vegetables.

Trader Joe's Garlic Spread makes for a tangy finishing touch in shawarma-style salads loaded with warm spiced chicken, crisp romaine, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and maybe a handful of chickpeas. The velvety texture and bold garlic flavor tie the whole bowl together, with or without meat. Try thinning with a tad of lemon juice so that it lands somewhere between a topping and a dressing.

A drizzle of this spread over grilled meat kebabs adds savory garlic flavor depth and a bright punch to balances the char. It shines on Middle Eastern-style kebabs with flatbread, or on grilled skewers of chunky beef, chicken, or lamb. Spoon it on just before serving, then finish with fresh herbs or seasonings.