The Perfect Picnic for $25 from Trader Joe's

The Challenge:

Trader Joe’s has a reputation for bringing affordable food to the masses, while still offering organic picks and pre-made options that don’t taste like freezer burn. Now that Denver has several stores, our al fresco dinner plans are simple. Here, a complete picnic straight from TJ’s aisles. Bonus: Stop by the 8th and Colorado location for wine.

The Goods:

1. French Baguette

Pulling off pieces of this fresh-baked baguette without concerns over crumbs will have you wondering how you ever enjoyed this delicious dough indoors. Pair with butter.

Price: $2.49

2. Blackberries

These dark, delightful berries are perfectly in-season for June. (Tip: Bring paper towels and be careful not to stain your picnic blanket.)

Price: $3.29

3. Dried Turkish Apricots

This light, but tough fruit complement the salad.

Price: $2.99

4. Greens and Seeds Salad

A deceptively simple salad (it is packed with butternut squash, feta, pomegranate, pumpkin seeds, and a balsamic dressing), this pre-packed option is light and summer-y. It’s also not too sweet, which helps save your taste buds for the final course.

Price: $3.99

5. Dark Chocolate Almond Bark Thins

Break off a piece of one of these rich, dark chocolate thins for an easy, no-fuss picnic dessert.

Price: $3.99