As the warm weather rolls in, and it doesn’t sound like much fun to crank the oven up to full blast, keep cool with one of these amazing spring salads for a refreshing, healthy dinner.

 

With temperatures rising throughout the day, it can get downright balmy by evening. As a result, you might be reluctant to use the oven–or consume a warm meal, for that matter–and we don’t blame you! In fact, now is a great time to trade out some of the cozy, winter comfort foods like hearty shepherd’s pie and hot bowls of chilli for lighter fare more fitting for the warm months ahead. So we’ve put together a list of spring dinner salads you’ll love!

 

Why Have Salad for Dinner?

 

Besides allowing you to avoid using the oven and overheating your home, having salad as an entree is a great way to get more veggies, trim that waist-line, and feel great for your exciting spring activities! Worried that salad won’t fill you up? Don’t be! These spring dinner salads are dense with the vitamins, healthy fats and protein your body needs for fuel, but low in calories. So you can fill your bowl to the brim and go back again for seconds. And salad for dinner doesn’t have to be the same four vegetables and single-flavor dressing served over and over again. We’ve curated four diverse dinner salads for you to try this spring, each with a flavor palate all its own. Try one a week, or try them all in one week! We’re sure one or all of these will become favorites in your household. Packed with quality, delicious ingredients, even the pickiest members of your family will find something to love in these spring dinner salads! 

 

4 Mouth-Watering Spring Dinner Salads

Summer Berry Spinach Salad 

Perfect for spring evenings on the patio, this salad is a fruit lover’s dream. For those of us who like our salads more sweet than savory, Summer Berry Spinach Salad is packed with antioxidant-rich berries and bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

 

Fresh spinach

Strawberries, quartered

Blueberries 

Pecans

Goat cheese (Montchevre’s Blueberry Vanilla)

Tacoma Boys Vanilla Peach Dressing

Grilled chicken, chopped

 

For the freshest spinach, plumpest strawberries, and sweetest blueberries, look no further than our produce section. This salad is best with spinach or a spring mix as its base. Next, top with blueberries and strawberries (make sure they’re stemmed and quartered). Then, add the pecans! Feel free to leave them whole, halve them, or chop them to your taste. For added sweetness and crunch, candy your pecans prior to making your salad. Top with crumbled goat cheese–we recommend grabbing some Montchevre’s Blueberry Vanilla flavored goat cheese from Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce’s vast cheese selection. Finally, toss in Tacoma Boys Vanilla Peach Dressing. This salad is great as a vegetarian option, but feel free to grill up some fresh skinless, boneless chicken breasts from our butcher, chop and add to your salad for added protein. This dish is a crowd pleaser–so enjoy it with your family at home or bring it to your next BBQ and watch it disappear!

 

Classic Caesar Salad

Elevate the classic side salad to a mouth-watering entree by focusing on quality ingredients and adding protein. While not strictly classic, the addition of avocado makes this dish irresistibly craveable. Bonus: it’s as easy as it is delicious and nutritious. For this spring dinner salad, you’ll need:

 

Romaine lettuce

Fresh grated Parmesan

Avocado

Tacoma Boys Baguette Croutons

Blackened Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon

Annie’s Organic Caesar Dressing

Lemon juice

Salt

Pepper

 

Start by washing, drying and chopping your romaine into bite sized squares. Dice avocados to your preferred size. (Note: The quality of your avocados can make or break this salad, so be sure to take extra care when picking them, or ask one of our friendly store associates to help you choose.) Add avocados, Tacoma Boys Baguette Croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese (again, quality matters–the better the cheese, the better the salad). Next, add blackened salmon. (Be sure to check out this week’s killer deal on Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon!) Finally, toss everything in Annie’s Organic Caesar Dressing (in our salad dressing section). Salt and Pepper to taste. Top with fresh squeezed lemon juice right before serving. This twist on the classic Caesar is sure to impress at your next dinner party or delight taste buds at the family dinner table, so give it a try today!

 

Avocado Prawn Salad

Toasted almond slices give this light, flavorful salad just the right amount of crunch. All the summer vibes of seafood and salad come together in one tasty dish in this Avocado Prawn Salad. Here’s what you need:

 

Arugula

White prawns, peeled, deveined, tail off

Avocado, diced

Sliced almonds, toasted

Cucumber, chopped

Tacoma Boys Soy Ginger Vinaigrette 

Salt

Pepper

 

First, swing by our seafood section for a great deal on white prawns this week! Start by marinating your prawns in Tacoma Boy’s Spicy Asian Honey Marinade. Pan fry. Then, add to a bed of peppery arugula. Next, add avocado, sliced almonds and chopped cucumber. Finally, toss in Tacoma Boys Soy Ginger Vinaigrette. Salt and Pepper to taste. Enjoy, and don’t be surprised if this satisfyingly sweet and spicy salad ends up on the menu again and again!

 

Traditional(ish) Greek Salad

If you like the hearty crunch of a traditional Greek salad, with its juicy tomatoes, plump olives, and snappy bell peppers, you’ll love this twist with its delightful secret ingredient–fig salami! If you opt to leave out the feta (or exchange for a vegan cheese option),  it’s completely vegan and gluten free. Here’s what you need:

 

Olives (Kalamata or black)

Feta

Tomato

Cucumber

Bell pepper

Red Onions

Primal Kitchen Greek Vinaigrette 

Hellenic Farms Fig Salami (Tikka Masala + Onion flavor)

 

Chop all ingredients to a similar size. Toss in Primal Kitchen Greek Vinaigrette (in our salad dressing section). And don’t forget the Fig Salami from Hellenic Farms (found in our cheese aisle). Gluten free, with no sugar added, plant based fig salami is the perfect addition to this spring favorite!

 

Specialty Items at Tacoma Boys

 

As always, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have what you need to elevate what might be an ordinary dish to something extraordinary with our unique house dressings, vast array of rubs and marinades, and hard-to-find specialty items. All it takes is one or two special ingredients to make a meal like you’ve never had before! So swing by one of our locations today. And don’t be afraid to ask our knowledgeable associates for help finding a dressing or salad topping that will make your spring dinner salad amazing!

Summertime is perfect for poolside gatherings, and prepping the right treats will ensure you can relax for hours around the pool. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a special celebration, here’s your guide to easy poolside treats that will keep everyone refreshed and satisfied.

Charcuterie with a Twist

Charcuterie boards make for easy snacking, and for a poolside twist, try serving them bento box or tackle box-also known as a snackle box. Fill each compartment with a variety of cured meats, cheeses, nuts, olives, and fruits. This setup is not only visually appealing but also practical, as it keeps each item separated and fresh. Plus, it’s easy to transport and set up by the pool.

Bulk Section Treasures

The bulk section at Tacoma Boys offers an array of options for easy poolside treats that are perfect for snacking. Think trail mixes with nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate, or a selection of crackers and pretzels. These bulk items are not only convenient but also allow you to mix and match to create custom snack blends that suit your vibe. Add them to your snackle box!

Caprese Salad
with Heirloom Tomatoes

A Caprese salad is a light and refreshing option that’s perfect for a summer day. Use heirloom tomatoes for their vibrant colors and rich flavors. Layer slices of tomato with fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This elegant salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Tacoma Boys’ Grilled
Corn & Zucchini Salad

For a more substantial side dish, try Tacoma Boys’ grilled corn and zucchini salad. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the freshness of the vegetables creates a delightful dish. Toss the grilled corn and zucchini with some cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a light vinaigrette for a delicious and nutritious salad. Whip some up using our recipe.

Wrap Sandwiches

Wrap sandwiches are easy to eat and can be made ahead of time. Use Tacoma Boys’ deli specials like turkey, roast beef, or ham, and add fresh veggies and spreads. Wrap them tightly in tortillas and slice them into pinwheels for a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for poolside snacking.

Fresh Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a light and healthy option, great for a hot day. Include fresh, local vegetables and herbs, wrapped in rice paper. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or soy sauce. These refreshing rolls are sure to be a hit with your guests. Try our recipe for Chicken Spring Rolls with Spicy Peanut Sauce.

Staying Hydrated

Keeping everyone hydrated is crucial, especially on a hot day. If you’re at a public pool, never fear, we have a wide variety of non-alcoholic drink options like kombucha, non-alcoholic beer, and local cider and ice tea. Kombucha offers a refreshing, slightly tangy taste and is available in many flavors. Non-alcoholic beer provides the taste of beer without the alcohol, perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavor without the effect of alcohol. Freshly squeezed lemonade, perhaps with a twist of mint or berries, is a classic and refreshing option that everyone will love.

Summer Berries

Summer berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are perfect for snacking. Their natural sweetness and juiciness make them an ideal poolside treat. Add a fancy flair by making up fruit kabobs ahead of time. 

Seeded & Seedless Watermelon

Nothing says summer like watermelon. We offer both seeded and seedless varieties to cater to everyone’s preferences. Slice them into easy-to-handle pieces or use a melon baller for a fun presentation. Press popsicle sticks into wedges and freeze for an easy, ice cold treat. Watermelon is hydrating, sweet, and a perfect way to cool down by the pool.

Tacoma Boys’ Chips and Salsa

A classic poolside snack, chips and salsa are a must-have. Tacoma Boys’ tortilla chips are always crisp and flavorful, making them a perfect base for scooping up delicious salsas. We have a wide selection of Tacoma Boys’ salsas—mild, spicy, and even a fruity option like mango salsa—to cater to different taste preferences. This simple yet tasty option is sure to be a hit among your guests.

With these easy poolside treats, your summer relaxing is sure to be a splash. By incorporating a mix of savory, sweet, and hydrating options, you ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Dive into these tasty options and make the most of your time by the pool.

As we gear up to celebrate July 4th, there’s nothing better than gathering with friends and family to enjoy delicious food. While the main dishes often get all the glory, the side dishes are the unsung heroes that make your feast unforgettable. This ultimate guide to July 4th side dishes will ensure your spread is both mouth-watering and memorable, with a mix of classic favorites and creative twists.

Loaded Nachos: Tacoma Boys’ Chips & Salsa

Kick off your celebration with a crowd-pleasing favorite: loaded nachos. Using Tacoma Boys’ Blue Corn Tortilla Chips and Salsa as your base, pile on Instant Pot pulled pork, melted cheese, black beans, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. The combination of crispy chips, savory pork, and fresh salsa will have everyone coming back for more.

For a simple red, white, and blue option to add to your July 4th side dishes, serve Tacoma Boys’ Blue Corn Tortilla chips with a dipping bowl of Tacoma Boys’ medium salsa and a dipping bowl of sour cream with fresh chopped chives.

Charcuterie is Never Out of Style

For gatherings large or small, charcuterie boards are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce offers everything you need to create a stunning display, from artisanal cheeses and cured meats to gourmet crackers and spreads. Add in some fresh fruits, nuts, and pickles for a board that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Fruit Salad & Fruit Kebabs

Keep things light and refreshing with a vibrant fruit salad or fruit kebabs. Featuring the best of summer produce, like orange-fleshed honeydew and Yumi Black Seedless Watermelon, these options are perfect for a hot July day. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the fruits will be a hit with guests of all ages.

Simply things with a platter full of generously watermelon wedges. Buy the seeded variety and host a good ol’ fashioned watermelon seed spitting contest. Don’t forget to pick up a six-pack of your favorite beer (or soda for the littles) to award to the winner!

Chicken Kebabs with
Peanut Dipping Sauce

For a savory option to add to your July 4th side dishes, chicken kebabs are a must! Marinate chicken chunks in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then grill them to perfection. Or better yet, stop by the meat counter and ask what they’ve already got seasoned and ready for you! Serve with a creamy peanut dipping sauce for an irresistible combination. These kebabs are easy to make and a sure-fire hit at any BBQ.

Veggie Kebabs

Veggie kebabs are a fantastic addition for your vegetarian guests. Skewer bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions, then brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Grill until tender and slightly charred for a flavorful and healthy side dish.

Classic Pasta Salad

Whip up a crowd-pleasing pasta salad in a snap using pasta from out unparalleled pasta section. Find a unique or classic pasta as your base. Toss cooked pasta with a variety of fresh veggies, olives, and cheese. Stir in some Stonewall Kitchen Sundried Tomato Pesto or drizzle with drizzle with your favorite Sotto Voce olive oil for a flavorful and satisfying side.

Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

For a delightful bite-sized treat, try goat cheese stuffed mini peppers. Another great vegetarian option to add to your July 4th side dishes. Everyone loves one or two bite finger foods and these are perfect! Check out our recipe.

Street Corn

Street corn, or elote, is a classic to add to your July 4th side dishes. Grill corn on the cob until it’s charred and smoky, then slather with mayonnaise, sprinkle with cotija cheese, and dust with chili powder. A squeeze of lime juice adds the perfect finishing touch.

Gnarly Garlic Dip

No gathering is complete without a good dip, and Gnarly Garlic Dip is a top choice. Serve it with fresh veggies, chips, or crackers. The robust garlic flavor paired with a creamy base makes it an addictive addition to your July 4th side dishes.

Cyrus O’Leary’s Coconut Cream Pie

For dessert, you can’t go wrong with Cyrus O’Leary’s Coconut Cream Pie. Its rich, creamy filling and flaky crust are the perfect way to end your meal. The tropical coconut flavor is a refreshing contrast to the savory sides and hearty mains. Pick one up in our freezer section!

Don’t Forget the Beer!

Last but not least, make sure you have a selection of cold beers on hand. Whether your guests prefer a light lager, a hoppy IPA, or a rich stout, having a variety will ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Beer pairs wonderfully with many of the dishes on this list and is a staple for any July 4th celebration.

With this ultimate guide to July 4th side dishes, your holiday gathering is sure to be a hit. From loaded nachos and charcuterie boards to fruit salads and street corn, these dishes offer something for everyone. So, fire up the grill, set out your sides, and enjoy a delicious and festive Fourth of July!

Summer is a vibrant time for fresh produce, offering a colorful bounty of fruits and vegetables that are as delicious as they are nutritious. From juicy cherries to succulent melons, summer’s harvest provides endless opportunities to create refreshing and healthy dishes. Let’s dive into some of Summer’s Best Produce and explore delightful recipes that highlight their flavors.

Local Cherries 

Cherries are synonymous with summer. Bing cherries, with their deep red color and sweet flavor, are perfect for snacking. Rainier cherries, known for their golden-yellow hue and delicate sweetness without the higher acid levels, are great for eating by the handful. 

Fresh Melons

Nothing says summer like fresh melons. Whether it’s a traditional cantaloupe, honeydew, or the lesser-known but equally delicious organic Umi black seedless watermelon, these fruits are hydrating and perfect for hot days. Enjoy them individually or toss together a delicious fruit salad, fruit kebabs, or try your hand at “shaved fruit dessert.”

Don’t forget to try delicious, super sweet, orange fleshed honeydew! This hybrid variety of melon is a cross between green fleshed honeydew and orange fleshed muskmelon. The result is an incredibly sweet and beautiful fruit to add to your breakfast spread!

Big Seeded Old-Fashioned Watermelon

For those who love a bit of nostalgia, the big seeded old-fashioned watermelon offers a taste of summers past. Its sweet, juicy flesh and fun-to-spit-out seeds make it a family favorite. Seeded old-fashioned watermelons are one of Summer’s Best Produce items. Serve in oversized wedges and host a seed spitting contest! Or try your hand at homemade Watermelon Aqua Fresca!

Flavor Bomb Tomatoes
& Tower Basil

These tomatoes are aptly named; their intense flavor bursts in every bite. They are excellent for salads, salsas, or just eating fresh off the vine. Try them tossed with mozzarella, basil, cucumber and a drizzle of Sotto Voce olive oil.

Tomatoes & basil are best buds. Pick up a tower basil plant to have basil on hand as your garden tomatoes ripen. Tower basil, with its robust aroma and flavor, is essential for summer dishes, especially when making pesto or caprese salads.

Local Peaches & Berries

The juicy sweetness of local peaches is unparalleled. Fruits are picked at optimum ripeness for flavor, not for traveling long distances. Local berries, such as strawberries and raspberries, especially from Washington, are also summer staples, known for their exceptional flavor and freshness.

Garlic Spears

Garlic spears are the flower of young garlic plants picked before flowering. They offer a mild, garlic flavor, perfect for grilling. They have a short season of availability, but are absolutely worth picking up when they are available.

Summer Recipes to Savor

Fruit Kabobs

Fruit kabobs are not only delicious but also fun to make. Thread chunks of watermelon, melon, peaches, and strawberries onto skewers. Serve with a yogurt dip flavored with a hint of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Grilled Fruit

Grilling fruit enhances its natural sweetness. Try grilling peach halves, pineapple slices, or melon wedges. Brush lightly with olive oil and grill until you see char marks. Serve as a side dish or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.

Berry and Basil Dessert

For a light and elegant dessert, toss fresh strawberries and raspberries with a bit of sugar and let them macerate for 30 minutes. Serve over a dollop of mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt, and top with thinly sliced basil.

Watermelon and Feta Salad

This classic combination is a summer favorite. Cube big seeded watermelon and mix with crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onions, and chopped mint or basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.

Making the most of summer’s best produce is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors and health benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re snacking on juicy cherries, savoring a fresh fruit salad, or enjoying a grilled fruit dessert, these recipes highlight the best of what summer has to offer. Visit your local Tacoma Boys’ and H&L Produce to find the freshest ingredients and celebrate the season with these delicious dishes.

Summer is synonymous with BBQ season, a time when friends and family gather around the grill to enjoy the smoky, savory flavors that only an outdoor barbecue can deliver. Becoming a BBQ pitmaster is an art, requiring the right ingredients, techniques, and a dash of creativity. Here’s your guide to mastering the art of outdoor cooking with some top-notch recipes and tips.

The Stars of the Grill

Cedar Plank Salmon and Steelhead

Cedar plank cooking imparts a distinct smoky flavor to salmon and steelhead, keeping the fish moist and tender. Soak the cedar planks in water for at least an hour, then place the seasoned fish directly on the plank. Grill over medium heat until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Tacoma Boys’ own seasonings work wonders here!

BBQ Pellets

For those using pellet grills, wood pellets are a game-changer. They combine the ease of pellets with the flavor of charcoal, perfect for any meat or vegetable. These pellets burn clean and hot, ensuring a consistent temperature and that signature BBQ taste. We have plenty of wood options to choose from at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce.

Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are a staple for any BBQ. Marinate them in your favorite BBQ sauce or a mix of soy sauce, honey, and garlic for an hour. Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a perfect char. Chicken is also great for that summer classic: kebabs!

Bacon Blue Cheese Burgers

For an indulgent treat, nothing beats bacon blue cheese burgers. Start with high-quality hamburger meat for our meat counter, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. Grill the patties to your desired doneness, then top with crispy bacon and a generous amount of blue cheese. Serve on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings.

Steaks and Grilled Fajitas

A good steak is the hallmark of a great BBQ. Choose cuts like ribeye, strip, or filet mignon, and season them with Tacoma Boys’ seasonings or another local favorite, Rub with Love Steak Rub. Grill over high heat, searing each side for a few minutes until your desired doneness. For fajitas, marinate flank steak in lime juice, garlic, and chili powder, then grill alongside sliced bell peppers and onions.

Grilled Veggies and Portobellos

Grilled vegetables are a must at any BBQ. Try portobello mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill until tender and slightly charred. Portobellos, in particular, make a great meat substitute for vegetarians.

Kabob Options

Kabobs are versatile and fun. Combine chicken, steak, or veggies with bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes on skewers. Marinate the meat in a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Grill over medium heat until the meat is cooked through and the veggies are tender.

BBQ Side Dishes

No BBQ is complete without delicious sides. Here are a few crowd-pleasers:

Classic Coleslaw

Shred cabbage and carrots, then toss with a dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of celery seed. Chill before serving.

Potato Salad

Boil red potatoes until tender, slice, then mix with diced celery, hard-boiled eggs, and a dressing of mayonnaise, mustard, and a splash of pickle juice.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Brush corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt. Grill until charred and tender. For a twist, try adding lime juice and chili powder. Or try your hand at a food truck favorite, elote!

Don’t Forget the Beer!

Pair your BBQ feast with a selection of cold beers. Light lagers and pilsners are refreshing choices that complement smoky and spicy BBQ flavors perfectly. For more robust dishes like steaks and burgers, a hoppy IPA or a smooth amber ale will enhance the meal. We also have a large selection of non-alcoholic beers for those wishing to skip on the alcohol, but enjoy the food pairing.

Mastering the art of outdoor cooking is about more than just grilling meat; it’s about creating an experience filled with flavor, fun, and camaraderie. With these tips and recipes, you’re well on your way to becoming a Pitmaster and hosting BBQs that will be remembered long after the coals have cooled. So fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and get ready to impress your guests with your newfound BBQ prowess!!

Urban gardening is a thriving trend, offering a fantastic way for city dwellers to grow their own fresh produce and ornamental plants. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a small apartment balcony, urban gardening can fit your lifestyle and provide you with beauty and food throughout the season. Here’s everything you need to know to get started urban gardening in the South Sound.

Veggie Starts: Beginner’s Best Friend

For those new to gardening, veggie starts are an excellent way to jump-start your garden. We have a huge selection of locally grown veggie starts and fruiting bushes. Tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and herbs are a great place to start. These young plants give you a head start, making it easier to achieve a bountiful harvest.

Tomatoes: Compact Varieties

Tomatoes are a favorite among those who are urban gardening in the South Sound. Compact container varieties are perfect for small spaces. Varieties like ‘Tiny Tim,’ ‘Patio Princess,’ and ‘Tumbling Tom’ are bred for container gardening. They require support as they grow, so use cages or stakes to keep them upright.

Seek Unique Plants

Finding a fun plant you’ve never grown keeps you engaged in your garden, while you wait eagerly to see the fruit of your labor. Pick up several cucamelon–also known as Mexican sour gherkins– starts or seeds. These tiny, watermelon-lookalikes taste like cucumbers with a hint of lime, adding a unique twist to your garden and your meals. They are a delightful surprise in salads and are delicious pickled. They thrive in warm weather and can be grown in pots or directly in the ground. 

Go Vertical

Vertical gardening is perfect for urban spaces where ground space is limited. Vines like beans and peas and cucamelons, as well as espaliered fruit trees, can be grown vertically to save space. Flowers like black eyed susan, sweet pea, honeysuckle, clematis and star jasmine make quick vertical garden screens when planted in mass. Even indeterminate tomatoes can be grown on long poles or trellises for a privacy screen. Trellises, wall-mounted planters, and stacked garden beds are great solutions to incorporate vertical gardening into your space.

Friend v. Foe: Companion Planting

Companion planting involves growing plants together that benefit each other through sharing nutrients or by repelling pests. In pots, this technique can maximize space and enhance growth. For example, basil and tomatoes make excellent companions; basil repels pests that might attack tomatoes, and the two plants thrive under similar conditions.

Windowsill Herb Garden

An herb garden on your windowsill, whether indoors or outdoors, is a convenient way to have fresh herbs at your fingertips. Herbs like basil, mint, parsley, and chives grow well in small pots and require minimal space. Ensure they get plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Trim them back and use them to keep them growing strong.

Create a Balcony Oasis

Even if you only have a balcony, you can create a lush garden. Choose plants that do well in containers and can thrive in the light conditions your balcony offers. Tomatoes, peppers, and herbs are excellent choices. Use railing planters, hanging baskets, and tiered plant stands to maximize your growing area. Consider lightweight planters, like hypertufa, for use on balconies. 

Hanging Gardens

Hanging planters are ideal for adding greenery without taking up floor space. They are perfect for trailing plants like strawberries, herbs, or decorative flowers. There are even hanging blueberry varieties, perfect for patios and balconies. Choose durable hangers and ensure they are securely fastened to avoid accidents.

Ceramic Pots: A Stylish Choice

Ceramic pots are a popular choice for urban gardeners in Tacoma due to their aesthetic appeal and durability. You can use a tray beneath pots to keep water from spilling out onto residents in lower balconies or from causing water damage to decks. They come in various sizes and designs, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your garden. Remember, some ceramic pots can be heavy, so choose wisely based on where you plan to place them. A rolling stand beneath your pots makes it easy to mix up your seating area or maximize sunlight on your plants. At Tacoma Boys and H&R Produce our gorgeous pots are always BUY ONE, GET TWO FREE!

Soil, Compost & Mulch – Oh my!

Choosing the right soil is crucial for a successful urban garden. Look for a high-quality potting mix that retains moisture but drains well. Compost adds essential nutrients, and you can source it locally or make your own. We carry several types of soil and compost for your needs. Fertilizers, whether organic or synthetic, should be used according to the plant’s needs. Top your plantings with mulch, such as straw or wood chips, to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, making it a valuable addition to your garden. Retaining moisture is especially important when growing in pots.

Whether gardening on a patio, a balcony, or a sunny front porch, urban gardening in the South Sound is a rewarding way to connect with nature, even in a bustling city. With the right tools, plants, and techniques, you can create a thriving garden oasis in any space. Happy planting!

There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a beautiful dinner table packed with Thanksgiving side dishes to pair with a slow roasted turkey. Or whatever main you prepare is bound to taste better with pals! From mashed potatoes and gravy to creamed spinach and mac and cheese, your plate should be packed. Finish it off with pumpkin pie or another Thanksgiving dessert and the evening will be complete.

Cookin’ Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Delicious and traditional, a harvest season meal isn’t quite complete without an array of Thanksgiving side dishes! Some people admit to being more excited about the sides than the turkey… Tacoma Boys makes it easy with all the fresh ingredients you need for sides plus the turkey or ham too! Check out Tacoma Boys own side dish recipes for inspiration and ideas like Creamy Rosemary Brussels Sprouts. It’s exciting to get inspired with new and unique side dishes as well as traditional recipes too.

Classic Thanksgiving Sides

These traditional Thanksgiving side dishes are classic for a reason. They’re nostalgic, delicious, and easily customizable. Read on for some tips on how to make the classic sides just a little different each year.

1. Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is not always quick, but easily modified with different types of cheese. And, it can be baked or prepared on the stovetop. Add-ins like caramelized onions or buffalo hot sauce make the delicious pasta dish just a little different! And Tacoma Boys has a wide variety of speciality cheeses to get groovy with in your homemade mac and cheese. We recommend a trio of Boar’s Head Smoked Gouda Cheese, BelGioioso Fontina, and Emmi Gruyere Cheese.

2. Green Beans

Sauteed, steamed, or baked with cream of mushroom soup— There are so many ways to prepare green beans for an easy Thanksgiving side! Try toppings like fried shallots or chopped pecans for some crunch.

3. Scalloped Potatoes

Mashed potatoes’ cousin is a cheesy, creamy baked potato dish called scalloped potatoes. Scalloped potatoes are less hands-on than the labor-intensive mashed potatoes. They bake like a casserole and come out in cheesy, tender bites. Mix in some pesto or try a breadcrumb topping to modify this potato dish.

4. Cornbread

Cornbread can be store bought, baked from a box, or completely from scratch with ingredients like flour and cornmeal. You can even go gluten free with a box mix from Tacoma Boys like Pamela’s Cornbread & Muffin Mix. Try it with hot honey butter! 

5. Roasted Squash

Do you lean sweet or savory with your squash side dishes? A drizzle of maple syrup or a spoonful of granulated garlic can help take this simple vegetable dish over the top. You can try many different types of squash within the seasonal produce at Tacoma Boys!

Fall Appetizers for Hosting

The best fall appetizers celebrate the flavors of the season with fresh produce and seasonings. From herbs like thyme and rosemary to squash and apples, there is a lot to enjoy! Snacks, appetizers, and side dishes should be full of flavor and texture — But not overwhelming enough to take away from the main event of turkey and mashed potatoes!

Try these fall appetizers, most of which involve seasonal produce, for your next hosting extravaganza:

• Antipasto Skewer
• Roasted Butternut Squash Dip
• Caramelized Onion and Apple Tart
• Bacon Wrapped Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Seasonal Cooking with Local Fruits and Vegetables

It’s a great time of the year to get into seasonal cooking. From winter squash to root vegetables and apples, the harvest season is bountiful. It’s good to cook seasonally for a few reasons. First, it helps connect you to the food you eat and the environment around you! Foods that were grown in your neighborhood were able to thrive and grow in the same ground you walk each day. It brings you closer to the process of farming produce. It also helps support your local farmers and economy by supporting these businesses. Last, it tends to be more environmentally friendly. The food travels less distance in planes, trains, and trucks to get from farm to table. 

Check out autumn seasonal fruits and vegetables like these at Tacoma Boys:

• Seedless red grapes (a satisfying crunchy snack!)
• Variety of apples
• Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables
• Squash like delicata squash
• Sweet potatoes and yams

And much more! Dive into soup season, roasted salads, and other fall-themed dishes with these locally grown fruit and veggies. Snack on grapes, apples, and pears. And round out the day of eating with hearty roasted brussels sprouts or squash. Seasonal cooking can be delicious, easy, and oh-so nutritious.

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