14 Tasty and Thrifty Trader Joe’s May Pantry Deals (#9 Is Top-Quality)

The weather is finally warmer, and you're planning picnics, backyard barbecues, and other outdoor extravaganzas.

Before you go over budget buying gourmet goodies, check out the best Trader Joe's hacks for saving money on the season's hottest pantry products.

From spicy dried strawberries to classic yellow mustard, these pantry picks are budget-friendly and delicious.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $2.29

This item might look new, but it's just dressed up for the summer. Trader Joe's classic Belgian chocolate mini bars usually come in a red and yellow box. This tropical version is eye-catching and just as delicious.

It might be just what you needed to elevate your s'mores or the perfect size dessert for those trying not to overindulge, since the mini bars are individually wrapped.

Price: $3.99

Blend a batch of the best margaritas with this organic, ready-to-use mix. Just add tequila and you're ready to go. This pantry pick hit store shelves just in time for the summer party season — and shoppers are already obsessed.

At $3.99, the 32-ounce bottle is a steal. For reference, Whole Foods Market sells 33.8 ounces of Tres Agaves Organic Margarita Mix for $12.99.

Price: $2.49

Barbecue season is here, and this seasoning/rub has everything you could want and more. Shake the coffee and garlic blend over ribs, steak, burgers, chicken, fish, or almost anything else you grill.

The summertime staple is already a fan favorite. Redditor sz5only raved, "This is my all time favorite product."

Price: $3.99

Stock up on this new, limited-time pantry product while you can. The sweet, spicy, and tart seasoned dried strawberries are flying off store shelves.

Chile flakes, cane sugar, and concentrated lime juice give these dehydrated berries a tangy flavor that makes them the perfect summer snack.

Price: $3.49

It's all in the name. This sauce is truly magnificent. The mouthwatering mix of condiments (mustard, mayo, ketchup, and relish) has a tasty flavor that adds something special to barbecued burgers, hot dogs, and more.

Price: $4.29

Savor this sweet flavor with a toasted bagel for breakfast or use the organic apricot preserves to make a marinade.

The light, bright jam is also an easy and affordable addition to a homemade charcuterie platter. Compare $4.29 for 15.5 ounces of the TJ's store brand to $6.19 for a 13-ounce jar from Bonne Maman at Target.

Price: $1.99

Get ready to taste your new favorite drink of the season. We give this bubbly beverage 10/10 for its refreshingly light, subtly citrus flavor.

Don't worry about matcha making this canned pantry pick too "earthy." The limited-time sparkling soda has just the right blend of sweetness and umami.

Price: $1.99

Tired of the same plain pink salt you always use? Now, TJ's has a spicier alternative. Sprinkle this crushed pepper blend over burgers, grilled veggies, or steak. Or, if you're daring, mix the seasoning into a summertime cocktail.

Price: $4.99

Elevate plain pasta with this gourmet find. TJ's Italian supplier from the Puglia region does more than just make the sweet sauce — they also grow the tomatoes.

What do shoppers think about the new-ish pantry product? Trader Joe's subreddit user Ireaditiongago explained, "It's chunky. Somewhere between Rao's and Victoria, but stands out more."

Price: $3.99

Calamari in a can? Yes, please. Trader Joe's mild, meaty Humboldt-variety squid has a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta and Caro Sugo Italian Tomato Basil Sauce or a fresh green salad.

The pretty patterened packaging has major Fishwife vibes. But instead of paying $8 or more for the brand name, you can snag this TJ's private label seafood selection for $3.99.

Price: $4.99

Make a batch of zesty iced tea in minutes. Instead of boiling bags and waiting for your brew to chill, just mix this concentrate with cold water. Are you a fan of Arnold Palmer's? Just add a cup of TJ's Fresh Squeezed Lemonade ($3.99 for 52 ounces).

Price: $1.79

Even though TJ's is stocked with adventurous new products, this pantry classic is a summer staple that deserves a spot in your cart.

Pack the under-$2 condiment in your picnic spread, add it to a backyard BBQ bash buffet, or mix the tangy mustard seed, vinegar, salt, turmeric, and paprika blend into a tasty tuna salad.

Price: $9.99

Don't sleep on this delicious Danish deal. Add the limited-time bakery buy to a holiday brunch buffet. A dreamy custard-style filling and pastry crust make the pantry product a popular choice with TJ's shoppers.

Redditor sassypud posted, "This Danish is incredible. It's buttery, flaky, sweet, and soft all at the same time. Hands down the best sweet treat I've ever had from Trader Joe's."

Price: $1.29

Whip up a fiery batch of homemade salsa, add these chiles to Mexican rice, or mix the foodie find into mac and cheese for a zesty kick.

The four-ounce can is a bargain for $1.29. The same size can of Rio Luna Organic Fire Roasted Mild Green Chiles costs $1.50 more ($2.79) at Whole Foods Market.

The price of food isn't getting any cheaper. But the good news is that with a few smart strategies, you can save money on groceries. Trader Joe's everyday low prices on high-quality pantry products make it easy to stay on budget.

Shelf-stable staples aren't the only deals you'll find at this store. We spotted bargains on other summer-ready picks under $5, including Mango Cream Bars, Blood Orange Mochi, and Banana Pudding Flavored Ice Cream.