I just know that even though it falls late in the month this year, Thanksgiving is going to sneak up on us. Rich and I actually plan on celebrating a week early when we go back up to the cabin in Vermont that we love so much, so I’ve already got my eyes peeled for dish ideas. We popped into Trader Joe’s (as we usually do) last week, and I spotted several items that will make your Thanksgiving easier. Small shortcuts like these can really make a difference in stress level, in my opinion. Here’s what I found.

Leafy Greens & Butternut Squash Salad Kit

This pack is loaded with delicious fall flavors, including baby spinach, frisee, butternut squash, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and candied almonds. It comes with a white balsamic vinaigrette. All you have to do is toss everything today.

Leafy Greens & Butternut Squash Salad Kit $4.49

Spiced Chai Black Tea Concentrate

Not only is this good for whipping up an easy chai latte, but you can also add it to desserts and sweet dishes to give it a seasonal flavor. It’s perfectly spicy and not too sweet and makes four 12 oz cups, so it’s a pretty good deal.

Spiced Chai Black Tea Concentrate $2.49

Fall Leaf Corn Tortilla Chips

Yes, they’re just regular tortilla chips, but they’re colored and shaped like autumn leaves. These are great for a festive party tray along with a dip.

Fall Leaf Corn Tortilla Chips $2.99

Frozen Pie Crusts

While I love making homemade pie crust, I realize that there’s not always the time, and some people are intimidated by it. Frozen pie crusts are a really great substitute. Trader Joe’s even has a gluten free option now.

Frozen Pie Crusts (set of 2) $3.99

Gluten Free Pie Crust $3.49

Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli

These ravioli stuffed with cheese and roasted pumpkin are perfect for a side dish. Drizzle with hot butter and sprinkle with crispy fried sage.

Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli $3.69

Pumpkin Bisque

If you want to serve soup as a starter course, this bisque made with pumpkin purée, heavy cream, honey, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg is as crazy easy. All you have to do is heat it up. I recommend topping with with something crunchy like pepitas or croutons.

Pumpkin Bisque $3.99

Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake

If you have guests staying overnight, this cake is an easy breakfast, but looks like you put a lot of effort into it. It serves up to 12 people, too.

Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake $2.99 

Pumpkin Spiced Ginger Brew

This is delicious on its own, but it makes a great seasonal cocktail when you combine it with rum or bourbon. Such a no-brainer drink that guests can handle themselves.

Pumpkin Pie Spiced Ginger Brew, $2.99

Follow me on Instagram and subscribe to my free digital magazine.

For the multidimensional woman trying to live her best life.