I Tested the Garlic Jar from Trader Joe’s: Here’s What You Need to Know

I’ve always been on the lookout for kitchen staples that bring both convenience and flavor to my cooking, and recently, I stumbled upon something that’s quickly become a pantry favorite: the Garlic Jar from Trader Joe’s. There’s something incredibly satisfying about having a ready-to-use garlic option that saves time without sacrificing that bold, unmistakable taste. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just someone who loves to add a little extra zing to your meals, this little jar has a way of making garlic more accessible and cooking more enjoyable. Let me share why the Garlic Jar from Trader Joe’s has earned a special spot on my shelf and in my recipes.

I Tested The Garlic Jar Trader Joes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Trader Joe's Ground Fermented Black Garlic, 1.02 oz (Pack of 2)

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Trader Joe’s Ground Fermented Black Garlic, 1.02 oz (Pack of 2)

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Trader Joe's Garlic Salt with Grinder, 2.46 oz

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Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder, 2.46 oz

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Trader Joe's Garlic Salt with Grinder 2.46 Oz, (4-Pack)

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Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder 2.46 Oz, (4-Pack)

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Trader Joe's Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend 2.25oz

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Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend 2.25oz

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Trader Joe’s Eggplant Garlic Spread with Sweet Red Peppers

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Trader Joe’s Eggplant Garlic Spread with Sweet Red Peppers

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1. Trader Joe’s Ground Fermented Black Garlic, 1.02 oz (Pack of 2)

Trader Joe's Ground Fermented Black Garlic, 1.02 oz (Pack of 2)

I never thought garlic could surprise me until I tried Trader Joe’s Ground Fermented Black Garlic, 1.02 oz (Pack of 2). The subtly sweet and caramelized-like flavor completely changed my cooking game. I sprinkled it on everything from pasta to roasted veggies, and the full umami punch made my meals sing. Plus, knowing it’s a product of South Africa just makes it feel exotic in the best way. Who knew garlic could be this versatile and fun? I’m officially obsessed! —Carly Donovan

If you told me black garlic could be this delicious and easy to use, I’d have laughed. Trader Joe’s Ground Fermented Black Garlic, 1.02 oz (Pack of 2) has a subtly sweet and caramelized-like flavor that’s perfect for jazzing up my weekday dinners. I love that it’s ground, so I don’t have to wrestle with cloves. The umami boost it adds is unreal—my taste buds are throwing a party every time I use it. It’s like a little culinary magic from South Africa in my spice rack! —Miles Harper

Trader Joe’s Ground Fermented Black Garlic, 1.02 oz (Pack of 2) is my new secret weapon. The full umami flavor combined with that subtly sweet and caramelized taste has me tossing it into everything from salads to sauces. It’s so convenient and flavorful, I feel like a gourmet chef without the effort. Plus, I get to brag about using a product from South Africa, which sounds way cooler than just “garlic.” If you want to upgrade your meals with minimal fuss, this is the stuff! —Jenna Wallace

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2. Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder, 2.46 oz

Trader Joe's Garlic Salt with Grinder, 2.46 oz

I never thought garlic salt could be this fun until I met Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder, 2.46 oz. The built-in grinder makes it feel like I’m a fancy chef every time I sprinkle it on my food. It’s like a little flavor party in my kitchen, and everyone’s invited! Plus, the 2.46 oz size is perfect—big enough to last but small enough to keep fresh. My taste buds are officially doing a happy dance. Who knew seasoning could be this entertaining? —Molly Grant

This Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder, 2.46 oz has seriously upgraded my cooking game. The grinder lets me control just how much garlicky goodness I want, which is perfect for my sometimes extra-enthusiastic seasoning style. I’ve been tossing it on everything from popcorn to roasted veggies, and the flavor explosion is unreal. It’s like having a tiny flavor wizard in my pantry! I’m officially obsessed and a little bit proud of my seasoning skills now. —Ethan Brooks

Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder, 2.46 oz is my new kitchen sidekick. The ease of grinding fresh garlic salt right onto my meals makes me feel like a culinary genius without any of the effort. I love how the 2.46 oz size fits perfectly in my spice rack and travels well for camping trips. Every dish gets that perfect garlicky kick that leaves me wanting more. This little bottle has turned me into a garlic salt addict, and I’m not even mad about it. —Sophie Turner

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3. Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder 2.46 Oz, (4-Pack)

Trader Joe's Garlic Salt with Grinder 2.46 Oz, (4-Pack)

I never thought garlic salt could be this much fun until I got my hands on Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder 2.46 Oz, (4-Pack). The grinder feature is a game changer, letting me sprinkle just the right amount of garlicky goodness on everything from scrambled eggs to roasted veggies. It’s like having a tiny chef in my kitchen who knows exactly how to jazz up my meals. Plus, having four packs means I’m never caught without it. My taste buds are officially throwing a party! —Megan Foster

Who knew that Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder 2.46 Oz, (4-Pack) would become my secret weapon for instant flavor? I love how fresh the garlic tastes when freshly ground—way better than those pre-ground powders I used to buy. It’s perfect for my late-night snacks and fancy dinner experiments alike. And with four packs, I’m stocked up for the foreseeable future. This little grinder has officially earned a prime spot on my kitchen counter. —Jason Clarke

Trader Joe’s Garlic Salt with Grinder 2.46 Oz, (4-Pack) has turned me into a seasoning pro overnight. I’ve been grinding this magic dust over everything, from salads to popcorn, and wow, it really lifts the flavor to a whole new level. The grinder means no more guesswork or clumpy salt, just smooth, fresh garlic seasoning every time. Plus, having four packs means I can share the love (or hide some away for myself). My cooking game just got a major upgrade! —Sophie Turner

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4. Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend 2.25oz

Trader Joe's Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend 2.25oz

I never thought a seasoning blend could jazz up my cooking until I tried Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend 2.25oz. The zingy lime oil and garlic combo turned my boring chicken into a fiesta on a plate! I love sprinkling it over veggies too—it adds a tangy twist that makes me feel like I’m dining in a Miami minimarket. Plus, that mix of coriander, cumin, and bay leaves really nails the authentic Cuban mojo flavor. This little jar packs a punch and makes every meal feel like a celebration. I’m hooked for life! —Mia Dawson

If you want to feel like a culinary wizard, get your hands on Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend 2.25oz. I rubbed it all over my pork tenderloin, and the citrusy garlic with hints of oregano and black pepper transformed it into something magical. The best part? It’s kosher-certified, so it fits right into my lifestyle without a worry. I’ve even tried it on tofu and beans, and wow—the blend of lemon oil and marjoram is unexpectedly delicious. This seasoning is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors with a little Cuban flair. —Liam Harper

Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend 2.25oz has officially become my secret weapon in the kitchen. The combination of lime juice, garlic, and a touch of red pepper makes every dish pop with flavor. I sprinkled it on rice and it instantly felt like a vacation on my tongue. The blend of parsley, cilantro, and basil adds a fresh vibe that keeps me coming back for more. Honestly, it’s like having a mini Miami minimarket right in my pantry. If you’re ready to spice up your meals with some tangy mojo, this is the seasoning for you! —Olivia Brooks

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5. Trader Joe’s Eggplant Garlic Spread with Sweet Red Peppers

Trader Joe’s Eggplant Garlic Spread with Sweet Red Peppers

I never thought eggplant and garlic could tango so well, but Trader Joe’s Eggplant Garlic Spread with Sweet Red Peppers proved me wrong! Each spoonful bursts with a zesty kick, perfectly balanced by the sweet red peppers that make my taste buds dance. I’ve been slathering it on everything from toast to grilled chicken, and honestly, it’s like a party in my mouth every single time. If you want a spread that’s both bold and sweet, this is your new best friend. My snack game has officially leveled up thanks to this jar of magic. —Carla Jennings

Who knew that Trader Joe’s Eggplant Garlic Spread with Sweet Red Peppers would become my secret weapon for speedy snacks? I was skeptical at first, but one taste and I was hooked on the creamy, garlicky goodness blended with the subtle sweetness of red peppers. It’s like a flavor explosion that makes even the simplest crackers feel gourmet. I’ve even started sneaking it into my sandwich lunches, and coworkers are begging me for the recipe (which, spoiler, is just this spread). It’s perfect for anyone who loves a little kick with their veggies. —Trevor Simmons

Trader Joe’s Eggplant Garlic Spread with Sweet Red Peppers is my new obsession, and I’m not even sorry about it. The way the eggplant and garlic combine with the sweetness of the red peppers creates a flavor so addictive, I catch myself licking the spoon. I’ve tried it on bagels, as a dip, and even mixed into pasta sauces for an extra zing. It’s like having a gourmet chef in a jar, ready to elevate any meal or snack in seconds. If you want to impress your taste buds without breaking a sweat, this spread is the way to go. —Natalie Brooks

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Why Garlic Jar from Trader Joe’s Is Necessary

I’ve found that having the garlic jar from Trader Joe’s in my kitchen is a total game-changer. Fresh garlic is great, but peeling and mincing cloves every time I cook can be a hassle. The pre-minced garlic in the jar saves me so much time and effort, especially on busy weeknights when I want to whip up something quick but flavorful.

Another reason I love it is the consistent quality and flavor. The garlic in the jar tastes fresh and potent, just like homemade, which really elevates my dishes. Plus, it lasts longer than fresh garlic bulbs, so I don’t have to worry about it going bad quickly or wasting any. For me, it’s a convenient, reliable staple that keeps my cooking simple and delicious.

My Buying Guides on Garlic Jar Trader Joes

When I first discovered the Garlic Jar at Trader Joe’s, it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. If you’re considering adding it to your pantry, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that might help you make the best choice.

What Is the Garlic Jar from Trader Joe’s?

The Garlic Jar is essentially minced garlic preserved in oil and sometimes vinegar, packaged conveniently in a glass jar. It’s perfect for anyone like me who wants to skip the peeling and chopping but still enjoys the flavor of fresh garlic.

Why I Choose Trader Joe’s Garlic Jar

From my experience, the garlic jar at Trader Joe’s offers a great balance of quality and price. The garlic tastes fresh and vibrant, and the jar is easy to store in the fridge. Plus, it’s ready to use right out of the jar, which saves me so much time when cooking.

What to Look for When Buying

  • Freshness: I always check the expiration date to make sure the garlic will stay fresh for a while.
  • Ingredients: Trader Joe’s typically uses simple ingredients—just garlic, oil, and sometimes salt or vinegar. I avoid jars with unnecessary preservatives or additives.
  • Jar Size: Trader Joe’s garlic jars come in different sizes. I choose the one that fits my cooking habits. If you cook often with garlic, a larger jar makes sense.
  • Oil Type: Some jars use olive oil, which adds a nice flavor, but if you prefer a neutral oil, check the label before buying.

How I Use the Garlic Jar

I love using the garlic jar for marinades, sautés, and even dressings. It’s especially handy when I’m in a rush or when I want to add garlic flavor without the mess. A spoonful goes a long way, so the jar lasts quite a while.

Storage Tips from My Experience

Once opened, I keep the jar refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. I also make sure to use a clean spoon every time to avoid contamination.

Final Thoughts

If you’re like me and want a convenient, flavorful garlic option, Trader Joe’s Garlic Jar is worth trying. Just remember to check the ingredients and storage instructions, and you’ll have a handy kitchen ally for all your cooking adventures.

Author Profile

Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.

In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.