7 Trader Joe's Seasonings That Belong On Steak

Some people go to Trader Joe's for the freezer aisle. Others go for the affordable wines, the one-of-a-kind snacks, or the heat-and-eat meals. But if steak is on your weekly meal plan, there's another section of the store you don't want to miss on your next grocery run: the Trader Joe's spice aisle. Whether you're a gourmet chef perfecting your filet mignon, or grilling a ribeye in the backyard, Trader Joe's has a robust collection of spices and seasonings that are perfect for your next steak.

The perfect seasoning can elevate a steak from average to exceptional. Salt and pepper will always have a home in the spice drawer, but adding a few unique pre-made seasoning blends to your repertoire will provide options when you want something a little bit different. These tried-and-true Trader Joe's seasonings weren't all necessarily made for steak, but they are guaranteed to surprise and delight when added to your favorite cut of beef.

When you don't know if you'd rather use soy sauce or teriyaki sauce, reach for the Trader Joe's Soyaki. This soy-based seasoning sauce can be used as a marinade or a glaze. Similar to teriyaki sauce in texture, this beloved Trader Joe's sauce stands out from the average bottle of teriyaki thanks to the addition of ginger, garlic, and sesame seeds. This versatile sauce will keep working long after the steak is gone; use it on veggies, rice, or as a dip for any of your favorite proteins.

Cuban flavors might not be the first thing that comes to mind when shopping for steak spices, but Trader Joe's Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend is a punchy departure from the traditional salt and pepper seasoning so often used on steak. This Cuban-inspired seasoning blend combines strong flavors like garlic, coriander, cumin, cilantro, and black pepper. Lime juice and lemon oil give it a citrusy flair. Serve it with a side of rice and beans, or any of your favorite traditional Cuban foods, for an authentic and well-rounded Cuban dinner.

Trader Joe's Salmon Rub Seasoning Blend might be known for the magic it works on fish, but this blend of spices is equally suited to your favorite cut of steak. The seasoning includes popular flavors such as paprika, brown sugar, and thyme to create a savory and well-balanced meat rub that works for beef, too. When paired with olive oil, the rub creates a light crust that adds a hint of umami-flavored crispness to each bite.

Sometimes basic is best, and if you like things basic but with a little bit of spice, grab yourself some Trader Joe's Spicy Pink Salt with Crushed Red Pepper the next time you're in the spice aisle. This pink sea salt kicks up the spice quotient with its addition of crushed red chili peppers. It provides the classic salt flavor that pairs so well with steak, but with a little extra kick.

You can't go wrong with ranch dressing, and it's no surprise that Trader Joe's popular seasoning collection would include a ranch seasoning. TJ's makes it easy to bring everyone's favorite flavor to your next steak dinner with its Ranch Seasoning Blend. The blend is inclusive of everything you'd want in your ranch dressing, from buttermilk-flavored powder to garlic, onion, and chives. Round out your all-American steak dinner with a side of fries (also sprinkled with the Ranch Seasoning Blend, of course).

Commonly used in Cantonese cooking, hoisin sauce is often used as a glaze or a dip. Trader Joe's Hoisin Sauce can be used either way, or even as a marinade. The next time you're pan-searing a New York strip, add a little hoisin sauce. The glossy sauce adds a perfect balance of sweet and savory to your meat. Save the rest for later to use on burgers, veggies, and even salads whenever you're craving a little extra umami in your meal. This might just become one of those products you pick up every time you visit a Trader Joe's.

When you think of a Thai-inspired peanut dressing, the first things to come to mind might be a fresh green salad or a bowl of noodles. But peanut sauce is incredibly versatile, and Trader Joe's Thai Style Peanut Sauce is an easy way to help you break out of your steak rut. Use it as a marinade the next time you're in charge of the steaks. With a flavor that melds both sweet and spicy, this popular sauce will elevate your steaks and delight your tastebuds.