It’s that time of year. After a hot afternoon spent playing in the pool, tubing behind a boat, or just lying in the sun, you might find yourself hungry, thirsty, looking for something sweet, or all of the above. Lucky for you, we have a great selection of local and specialty summer treats to satisfy your craving!
Whether you’re in the mood for good ol’ fashioned, right-out-of-the carton ice cream or a novelty frozen treat on a stick, Tacoma Boys and H&L produce have it all. Because we care about local businesses and quality ingredients, we carry products from some of the best ice cream makers in the area. Most of these small businesses commit to sourcing ingredients locally and responsibly. And many of them are not just making ice cream, but also making a difference! We couldn’t be prouder to support a variety of excellent ice cream makers, and we rounded up a few of our favorites for you, right here on our blog!
Tacoma Boy’s Guide to Local Summer Treats
Pure Pints, Plain and Simple
For those moments when all you want is spoonful of sweet creamy frozen goodness, we’ve collected some of our favorite classic ice cream makers.
Molly Moon’s Ice Cream
It all started with a Seattle woman who dreamed of bringing people together and making them happy with ice cream. Her dream came true in Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream. Committed to sustainability and to the well being of their employees, Molly Moon’s makes ice cream with 90% ingredients sourced in the PNW. Among many other goodwill efforts, Molly Moon’s gives at least 10% of profits to food banks, equity organizations, women and girl empowerment initiatives each year. So, grab a pint of Molly Moon’s Ice Cream and know your money is going toward a great cause!
Locally owned and operated, ACME has four scoop shops across Washington state. Their ice cream making process boasts “no air added,” leaving nothing but a thick, rich frozen summer treat. Based in Bellingham, Washington, ACME makes their ice cream with cream and berries from local farms. The simplicity and quality of their ingredients leads to happiness with every bite.
Flavors to try: Dark Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla, Mint Chocolate Chip, Butter Pecan.
Snow Monkey Ice Cream
Why can’t ice cream be healthy? It’s a question the founder of Snow Monkey Ice Cream sought to answer in her college kitchen. And so she created a summer treat that’s both delicious AND nutritious! Snow Monkey Ice Cream makes their ice cream with just 7 ingredients. As a result, it’s vegan and paleo approved, as well as dairy and nut free. They make their product with seeds, fruit, and superfoods, so this ice cream actually fuels your body! If that all isn’t upstanding enough, Snow Monkey proudly empowers female entrepreneurs and is owned and operated entirely by women. If you’re an athlete or just someone who wants healthy food for your body, you’ll love Snow Monkey ice cream!
Flavors to try: Matcha Green Tea, Passion Fruit, Chocolate.
Umpqua Ice Cream
If you’re from the PNW, you’ve likely already tried the mouthwatering summer treats produced by Umpqua Dairy. Made from milk received daily from Oregon farms, Umpqua ice cream has become a summer staple for countless Pacific Northwest families. Since their foundation in 1931, Umpqua has been committed to sustainability and food safety for all of their customers.
Flavors to try: Espresso Madness, Maple Nut, Chocolate Chip Mint.
What A Novel Idea!
While it’s always nice to sit down at the table with a bowl of ice cream (or on the couch with a carton…you know who you are), sometimes what you need is an on-the-go summer treat..a dripping-down-from-the-stick-onto-your-hand kind of treat..or maybe an ice-cream-squishing-out-from-between-two-cookies kind of treat and we’ve got it all! We’ve rounded up some of our top picks for ice cream novelties here:
Goodpop Popsicle
Based in Austin, Texas, Goodpop believes in wholesome ingredients (organic when possible) and doing good in the world. Fair trade certified and non-gmo verified, Goodpop makes their popsicles with quality ingredients. In addition, they donate to a long list of charities and organizations doing their part to make the world a better place. Because they’re full of real, simple ingredients, you can feel great about feeding your kids (and yourself) Goodpop Popsicles on a hot summer afternoon!
Flavors to try: Strawberry, Chocolate, Cookies n Cream.
Ruby Jewel Ice Cream Sandwiches
The only thing better than ice cream is ice cream squished between two cookies. At least, that’s what the founder of Ruby Jewel seemed to think when she set out on a mission to create “extraordinarily and distinctly original ice cream sandwiches.” Ruby Jewel sources their ingredients from farmers and food artisans in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest, and operates out of Portland. So, you’ll be supporting a fantastic local business when you buy these amazing ice cream sandwiches!
Flavors to try: Dark Chocolate and Fresh Mint (think Girl Scout thin mints, but ice cream), Chocolate Chip and Vanilla Bean, Lemon and Honey Lavender, Double Chocolate and Peanut Butter (like peanut butter cups, but again, ice cream!)
Chuckanut Bay Mini Cheesecakes
Chuckanut Bay Mini Cheesecakes are 3” of heaven. The folks at Chackunat Bay make their cheesecakes with real, all natural ingredients, and have produced a portion size perfect for one. Locally owned and family operated, Chuckanut bay operates out of Baine, Washington. Grab a few individual cheesecakes and make each of your guests feel special at your next summer get together.
Flavors to try: Huckleberry, New York Cheesecake, Salted Caramel, Key Lime.
Island Ice Cream Co. Chocolate Dipped Ice Cream Bars
Whidbey Island Ice Cream Co operates out of–you guessed it!–Whidbey Island, Washington. In addition to their own scoop shop, you can find Whidbey Island Ice Cream at the Woodland Park Zoo, the Space Needle, and of course, Tacoma Boy’s and H&L Produce. Hand dipped in Guittard chocolate, you’ll find chocolaty goodness in every bite!
Flavors to try: Now This Is Chocolate, Chocolate Mint, Sea Salted Caramel (proceeds from this flavor help support the Seattle Aquarium), Skagit Triple Berry.
Keep Cool with Tacoma Boys
However you choose to spend your summer, let us help you keep it cool with unique, quality ice cream and ice cream novelties from local small businesses. Swing by a Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce Location today and check out our freezer section all the best summer treats.
Looking for something sweet? From quality baked pastries to locally made ice cream, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce has the perfect delicious dessert to top off your evening and satisfy your craving for something sweet.
You’ve just finished a delicious meal, and conversation around the table is flowing. You don’t want the evening to end, but the main course is gone and plates are ready to be cleared. You know exactly what this moment calls for. Whether it’s cool and creamy or fresh from the oven filling the house with a heavenly aroma…it’s time for dessert!
Whether you’re a “made-from-scratch” kitchen queen or a “support your local baker” host extraordinaire (or maybe somewhere in between), we at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have all the sugary goods you need to top the evening off right with a delicious dessert.
Three Ways Tacoma Boys Can Help Make Your Dessert Delicious
Made with Lovin’ Fresh From the Oven
Maybe you’re a purist when it comes to dessert. “Happiness is homemade,” they say, and they couldn’t be more right! There’s nothing as tasteful and thoughtful as a baked good made with love in your own kitchen. If you’re in this camp, have no fear. Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have you covered with high quality ingredients that would make your mother proud.
Apple Pie
For an American summer classic, try this recipe for homemade Apple Pie from Taste of Home! Save yourself a little time by skipping the tedious apple peeling and grab a bag of Remlinger Farms Frozen Granny Smith Apples. Sourced in Carnation, WA, these are homegrown Washington apples. (We also carry blueberries, pie cherries, rhubarb, peaches, and a berry medley from Remlington. So if apple pie doesn’t suit your fancy, you have plenty of options!) While you’re there, pick up a frozen pie crust, also in our frozen section. Is it still homemade if the crust is frozen? We think so. And we won’t tell.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
If pie feels a bit ambitious, you can never go wrong with Nestle Tollhouse Chocolate Chip Cookies. If you’re interested in lowering the sugar content and still making this delicious dessert, try substituting Lily’s Semi-Sweet Baking Chips from our comprehensive baking aisle. We also carry an assortment of sugar replacements like Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener, Sweet Leaf Organic Stevia, and Swerve Sugar Replacement. While you’re there, check out Tacoma Boys Vanilla Extract. Give it a try and see if you don’t make the best chocolate chip cookies you’ve ever had!
Leave it to the Pros
Not much of a baker? No problem! There’s absolutely no shame in buying delicious desserts from the store, especially desserts made locally with high quality ingredients. Some things are best left to the professionals.
Cyrus O’Leary’s Pies
Cyrus O’Leary’s is a business based right here in Washington. What started as a restaurant in Spokane has now turned into a pie baking legacy that has lasted more than 30 years! With flavors like, Marionberry, Banana Cream, Strawberry Rhubarb, Coconut Cream and Chocolate Cream, there’s something for everyone. Find any and all of these flavors in our frozen section and make Cyrus O’Leary’s pie the highlight of your evening!
Olivia Superfree Cupcakes
Sick of always missing out on delicious desserts due to food allergies? Be free! Everything in the Olivia Superfree line is gluten free, dairy free, egg free, soy free, rice free, corn free, potato free, trans fat free, canola oil free, iodine free, nut free, vegan and coconut free. All the good taste with none of the bad stuff. Olivia Superfree is a family owned company that was started in Seattle by a woman who has many food allergies herself, and named the company after her daughter, who also has food allergies. Stop by Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce and pick up Olivia Superfree Salted Caramel Pumpkin Cupcakes or Dutch Apple Pie the next time you have your vegan best friend over for dinner, and enjoy a dessert nobody has to miss out on!
Homemade..ish
Do you love the idea of homemade, but always seem to be short on time? Admire people who can spend hours planning a four course meal in advance, but also love spontaneous dinner guests? We have the perfect in-between options you can pick up and put together quick or keep in your pantry for just the right time.
Fisher Fair Scones
It all started at the Washington State Fair in Puyallup. The unlikeliest fair food amongst hot dogs and pretzels, but there they were–Fisher Fair Scones–hot, fresh, and full of jam. They became famous throughout the state and the country and for a great reason. If you haven’t tried them at the fair, August is coming soon! But lucky for you, you don’t have to wait. We carry Fisher Original Fair Scone & Shortbread Mix in our baking section all year long. These scones are traditionally served with raspberry jam, so come check out our vast selection of jams and preserves and see if you don’t find a few other flavors to try (Keep it local with Maury Island Marionberry Jam). Keep a box of Fisher Fair Scone Mix in your cupboard for the next time an afternoon hangout turns into a spur of the moment BBQ, and wow your guests with a scone treat that’s kind of homemade.
Strawberry Shortcake
Another great, easy summer treat is strawberry shortcake! Cool and creamy, this is an option that’s so quick to throw together, but will have your guests raving all night.
Start with pound cake (you can go with traditional, but we love Magic Flavors Lemon & Poppy Seed Pound Cake). Top with fresh sliced strawberries from our produce section and top with whipped cream. Voila! A delicious dessert that tastes like summer. No baking skills or oven time required.
Looking for a Unique Treat?
Whether you’re an aspiring baker looking to amaze your guests with rad culinary skills, or you prefer to let your great taste and knowledge of local experts do the impressing, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have what you need. We carry a variety of local brands unique to our area, so you can feel great about supporting local businesses when you shop with us. With a comprehensive baking section and vast array of specialty items, your after dinner treat will be one of a kind. Stop by one of our locations today, and let us help make tonight’s delicious dessert the best part of your day!
Intimidated by the thought of grilling up a lobster tail? Contrary to what you might think, preparing seafood at home doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve put together a simple how-to, so you don’t have to miss out on all the quality seafood the PNW has to offer.
True, seafood can be an involved process. But isn’t that how it is with most things worth doing? There’s a reason seafood is often considered a special occasion food–there are many ways to go wrong, so it’s even more impressive when you nail it. Lucky for you, you now have an insider’s guide to selecting, preparing, and serving the highest quality seafood in the PNW, and it’s not as difficult as you think!
Quality is Key
While there are many decisions regarding the preparation of great seafood, the most important decisions are made in the selection. No matter how great you are at seasoning, grilling, broiling, or baking, nothing will enhance the flavor of your dish like choosing quality seafood at the store. When it comes to seafood, the fresher the better. The great news is, we have access to an abundance of fresh seafood in the PNW, and here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we source our seafood locally. So whenever you purchase seafood at one of our stores, you can rest assured you’ve already made the best choice when it comes to the quality of your seafood. And we have a great selection–from succulent crab legs to our fresh ahi tuna steaks–along with the other ingredients and spices you’ll need to prepare quality local seafood at home! Let’s get started.
How to Prepare and Serve Quality Local Seafood
Lobster Tail
Selection and Preparation
Possibly the most intimidating item on our list, so we’ll tackle it first! Many would argue that you can’t beat live lobsters, but if you don’t feel up to killing lobsters yourself, you can find wild caught lobster tails on ice in our meat department. There are many great ways to prepare lobster tails, and they all have their own advantages. Regardless of the method you choose, you’ll want to rinse and dry your whole tails before cooking them. Check the meat for the darkly colored digestive tract, and remove and discard if present. You can cook lobster tail in the shell, but we highly recommend that you “butterfly” them instead. This process involves pulling the meat from the shell and setting it on top while still attached at the fin. You’ll find it’s not as hard as it sounds, and it will give your tails that signature look you see in restaurants. You can butterfly your lobster tails for every method of cooking except boiling.
Cooking
As far as methods for cooking, you’ll find there are many–including steaming, baking, grilling, or broiling, but we recommend baking for greater control over the process and best retention of flavor. Preheat oven to 450°F. After you’ve butterflied your tails, season with Tacoma Boys “Cape Cod Style” Seafood Seasoning. Bake 12-15 minutes until the meat is a creamy white color with no translucent spots. Do not overcook your lobster, or it will have a rubbery consistency. Serve with melted butter, lemon and parsley. Perfect for your next special occasion (Father’s Day is coming up!), but easier than you thought possible, this meal is sure to impress!
Clams and Oysters
Selection and Storage
While biologically different, the preparation for clams and oysters is relatively similar. They make a great appetizer and are shockingly simple to prepare. Oysters and clams are both nutritionally dense, both high in protein, both low calorie and low fat. Oysters are a great source of phosphorus, calcium, zinc, potassium and a famed aphrodisiac. Meanwhile, clams are packed with Vitamin B-12, Vitamin C, magnesium and iron. To guarantee freshness, clams and oysters are sold live. We have them on ice, available by the dozen. Ensure the oysters and clams you’re purchasing are live by checking to see that they’re all the way closed, or tap them. If they move, they’re still alive. Store in the fridge in a porous bag like burlap, or in a bowl covered with a damp paper towel for no more than 24 hours. If you store them in an airtight container, they’ll suffocate.
Preparation
When you’re ready to prepare and eat your clams or oysters, soak them in a brine (1 gallon of water mixed with ⅓ cup of salt for a few hours.) Pro Tip: If you add cornmeal to the mixture, it’ll lighten the meat and clear sand from the digestive tract. Next, scrub with a stiff brush. For easier opening, put in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. If you have an oyster shucker, it might make the task of opening your shellfish easier, but if not, you can use a paring knife or a flat head screwdriver. Shuck the clam or oyster flat side up. Your goal is to work the blade into the crack and sever the adductor muscle that holds the shell together. You’ll want to do this over a bowl to save the juice inside (called clam liquor).
Presentation
You can serve raw clams and oysters on the half shell, no cooking required! Simply fill a serving dish with ice, and nestle them in. For a great presentation, set ramekins with horseradish, lemon juice, and tabasco sauce in the middle. Great for parties, with very few steps required, this appetizer will please a crowd every time!
Crab Legs
Unless you’re buying live crabs, crab legs come pre-cooked, so essentially all you’re doing is reheating them. The trick becomes doing so while still maintaining flavor and retaining moisture. The good news is, we take the guesswork out of the selection process by carrying nothing but the best wild-caught king crab legs.
Steaming
If you’re cooking for a crowd, steaming is recommended. For this method, simply place your steam basket in the bottom of a stock-pot with 1 cup of water. Fold as many legs as will fit into the basket, close it, and bring the pot to a boil. Once you have a boil, put the lid on your pan and cook for about 5 minutes, until the crab legs are steaming hot and fragrant.
Instant Pot Method
For a smaller number of people, the instant pot is a great method for cooking! The instant pot helps maintain juiciness and gets dinner on the table fast. For this method, place your trivet in the bottom of your 6 qt instant pot along with 1 cup of water. Fold 3-4 clusters of crab legs into the pot. Then put the lid on and set it to “sealing.” Next, set the pot to manual on high pressure for 4 minutes. Quick release, and your legs are ready!
Serving
Be sure to have a crab cracker or walnut cracker on hand, as well as a bowl for the shells. Melt butter and mix in Tacoma Boys “Cape Cod Style” Seafood Seasoning and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for dipping. Wow your partner with crab legs on your next date night in or serve with a salad at a dinner party for a meal that will leave them speechless.
Fish
Last but not least, try our mouth-watering wild caught steelhead fillets or a wild ahi tuna steak. When you have fish this fresh, it’s best to keep it simple with the preparation. This allows the flavor of the fish to come through without competition.
Steelhead Fillets
For a perfectly done steelhead fillet, preheat your oven to 375° F. Rub fillets with Tacoma Boys “Cedar Plank” Sweet + Smoky Salmon Rub. Spray a sheet of aluminum foil with cooking spray and place the steelhead filet in the middle. Fold up sides of the foil. Pour melted butter over each fillet. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Steelhead is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Serve with lemon wedges.
Ahi Tuna Steaks
The simplest and most delicious way to enjoy ahi tuna steaks is a simple pan fry. Begin by marinating tuna steaks for a minimum of 2-3 hours in Tacoma Boys Spicy Asian Honey Marinade. Then, preheat a cast-iron skillet to 450° F in the oven. Transfer the hot skillet to the stove on medium-high heat. Drizzle avocado oil (or another oil with a very high heat index, like grapeseed oil) onto the pan, and sear tuna steaks on each side for 1 ½ to 2 minutes on each side for a rare sear (why would you eat ahi tuna steaks any other way? But if you insist, give it a little longer on each side). If desired, top with more marinade or soy sauce.
High in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, fish is a great source of lean protein. The oils that come from fish are also great for joint, tendon, and ligament health. Plus, when cooked to perfection, fish is simply scrumptious!
In a bind for time? Don’t miss out on our pre-seasoned fillets. We offer delicious flavor combinations like Potato and Cheddar Crusted Cod Fillets and Chipotle & Lime Crusted Tilapia–all you have to do is cook them!
The Best Seafood in the PNW
If you’re lucky enough to live in the PNW, you’re surrounded by some of the highest quality seafood the country has to offer. Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we recognize and appreciate the opportunity we have to bring everything the great state of Washington has to offer to your table. Stop by and let our friendly store associates help you choose a great salmon fillet or king crab leg today!
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!
Whether you’re looking for fresh cut flowers to grace your mom’s table top, flowering potted plants for a gift that keeps giving, or hanging baskets to remind her that her front porch will always feel like home to you, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have the Mother’s Day flowers you need to tell your mother how much she means to you this year.
Mother’s Day is just a few short days away. What do you get for the woman who gave you life? While there’s nothing you can ever buy to repay her for what she’s done for you–the sacrifices she’s made or the love she’s given–flowers are a classic for a reason. Flowers represent life and love and gratitude–the perfect combination of sentiments for Mother’s Day. They’re the ideal gift for the woman who has everything or is just content with what she has. You can never have too much of a beautiful thing!
When it comes to flowers, you have options. Your choices range from very low maintenance fresh-cut flowers (just pick them out and put them in water) to flowering potted plants, which require a little more care, but keep on keeping on. Whatever you think is the right option for your mom, we have the highest quality Mother’s Day flowers around and a great selection from which to choose. Here, we’ve devised a simple guide to get you started:
4 Steps to Choosing the Perfect Mother’s Day Flowers
1. Choose Your Type
You know your mom best, so this part is up to you. Take a moment to consider your mother’s lifestyle and preferences. Is she a vase-on-the-table kind of girl or does she love being out in her garden? Does her porch or patio have a perfect spot for a hanging basket? Here are some options to consider:
Fresh-Cut Flowers
It doesn’t get simpler than fresh-cut flowers! These are a great option if your mother has a notoriously black thumb or simply doesn’t have an interest in caring for plants (she cared for you all those years, she deserves a break!) but still appreciates the thoughtfulness and temporary beauty of a bouquet. Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have a great selection of fresh cut flowers. Choose from bright, colorful tulip buds for a sweet spring look. Or you can’t go wrong with classic roses. If you don’t know your mom’s favorite flower, grab one of our beautifully arranged mixed bouquets for a gift that’s sure to make her smile.
Hanging Baskets
Hanging baskets are a great option if your mother has an outdoor space she loves! Whether it’s a porch, patio or pergola, hanging baskets will greet your mother with color and cheer every time she steps outside. Hanging baskets are a great alternative to potted plants if space on the ground is limited, as in a small patio or porch, or if she loves garden flowers but has no garden. Hanging baskets often include vining plants or flowers that creep over the edge and give the whole space a lovely fragrance.
Vegetable Starters
It’s a little non-traditional, but maybe vegetable starters are right up your mom’s alley! If pumpkin sprouts and sugar snap peas will make her heart happy, who’s to say they’re not the perfect alternative to Mother’s Day flowers? Check out our variety of tomato starts, butternut squash plants, and cucumbers. Or contribute to her herb garden with our cilantro, parsley, and chive starters. For the more practical mom who likes to eat what she grows, our quality vegetable starters will be just the thing for her this Mother’s Day.
Iceland Poppies
Flowering Potted Plants
Flowering plants can be kept indoors or out. They’re a great choice for assisted living or apartment living where gardening is not an option. Maybe your mother loves the idea of growing flowers, but doesn’t want the responsibility of a full garden. Just a few potted plants are a great place to start! Right now, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have an especially beautiful assortment of colorful African Violets and Non-Stop Begonias, both excellent indoor plants. If you’re looking for an outdoor plant, our Canna Lillies and Iceland Poppies offer a beautiful pop of color.
2. Get Specific
Now that you’ve decided the general type of Mother’s Day flowers to buy, there are a few more considerations to make. Nailing down the specifics will help you get her something you know she’ll love and can care for without too much inconvenience.
Variety
Do you know what kind of flower your mom loves? If you’re not big into surprises, ask her! For fresh-cut, this isn’t a huge deal due to the temporary nature of them. But it might be worth knowing for sure if she has strong preferences, since she’ll likely be the one caring for live plants.
Color
Pick a color you know your mom loves! Take cues from her space and her clothes if you don’t know offhand. If buying outdoor flowers, make sure you buy flowers in a color that compliments the exterior of her house.
Climate
If you’re choosing a live plant, knowing a little about your plant’s new home is vital. When buying your plant, keep in mind if it’s meant to be an outdoor plant or an indoor plant. Some plants, like our African Violets, thrive in indoor environments. Others, like our beautiful Salvia Blues, are primarily outdoor plants. In the same way, some hanging baskets–like our gorgeous Fuschia baskets–like a semi-sunny area, while others–like our “Madison Avenue” variety hanging basket–do best with lots of sun!
Care
Fresh-cut flowers will only need water and a vase. But living flowers will need a little extra love. Consider what level of care your plant is likely to receive. If you walk in with an idea of how often your mother is able to water her flowers, it might guide you to a higher or lower maintenance plant. Bonus gift: consider offering “plant care services” along with your Mother’s Day Flowers! It’ll give you an excuse to visit more often and take the responsibility off her plate.
3. Read Up
Once you’ve chosen the perfect flowers for the mother in your life, be sure to read the care instructions. Degree of complication varies, but knowing proper care will ensure to set your mom up for success with flowers (or vegetables) that will stay healthy all year long!
4. Don’t Forget the Pot!
For a finishing touch, check out our huge assortment of quality ceramic pots! This is essential if you’ve chosen a potted flowering plant for your mother. We have a wide variety of sizes and colors from which to choose. Some pots and potted plants are easy pairs! Literally just drop the potted plant into the ceramic pot, and they pair perfectly with no messy topsoil to deal with! We know you’ll find what you need here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. Swing by for a great deal on ceramic pots today!
Make Your Mother Smile with Mother’s Day Flowers
Whether you’re buying flowers for your mom, a woman in your life who is like a mother to you, the mother of your children, or another special mom in your life, you can’t go wrong with beautiful, quality flowers from Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce! Our plants are sourced locally, so you can feel great about shopping local for your Mother’s Day flowers this year.
As the days grow longer with the season, you might be looking to lighter brews and fruitier wines. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite selections of spring beer and wine for you to try this season!
Do the brief moments of sunny weather have you dusting off the patio furniture and reaching for your grilling tools? Us, too! Finally, the rainy days are becoming fewer and farther between. We may yet have some gloomy weather, but spring has begun! Soon, our days in the PNW will be filled with sunscreen, campfires and shore-side walks. Even if it’s not time to break out the swimsuits and beach towels quite yet, you’re probably ready to be done with heavy coats and sweaters.
Similarly, if you’re anything like us, porter and pinot noir don’t sound as good with the sun shining as they do in the middle of winter. There’s just something about a refreshing Pale Ale or fruity Riesling that gets us in the spirit of warmer days, even if the weather doesn’t consistently match yet. And unlike donning shorts, it’s never too early to welcome spring with the switch to lighter beers and more fruit-forward wines. Struggling to choose? Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have a comprehensive selection of the region’s best craft beer and local wines. You can’t go wrong with any of the quality brews and bottles we carry. But, to simplify things further, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite spring beer and wine for your enjoyment. Bonus: every bottle on this list is from a local brewery or winery!
Tacoma Boys Best Beer for Spring
Silver City Brewery–Ridgetop Irish Red Ale
Known for its balanced notes and red color, this ale is every man’s (or woman’s) beer. Brewed in Bremerton, Washington, Silver City Brewery’s Irish Red Ale has just the right amount of caramel tones and hop with a smooth finish. Perfect for evenings when a crisp still hangs in the air, but a promise of summer floats on the breeze.
San Juan Island Brewing Co– Yachter’s Daughter Helles Lager
San Juan Island Brewing Co is a beautiful brewery and restaurant nestled in Fryday Harbor, Wa. Yachter’s Daughter is their refreshing take on the classic German style, Helles. It’s one of the most popular beer styles in Bavaria, and for good reason. With a medium, smooth body and dry finish, Yachter’s Daughter Helles Lager is a great addition to your evenings outside this Spring.
Riverbend Brewing Company–Peach Milkshake IPA
Cheekily named “Life’s A Peach & Then You Die,” this locally brewed beer boasts a fruity aroma accompanied by strong hops and juicy peach tones. For those moments when you crave something cool and refreshing but can’t decide if you want a milkshake or a beer, Riverbend Brewing Company has you covered.
pFriem Family Brewers–Pilsner
This crisp beer with a spicy finish is the perfect pairing to an evening spent around a backyard fire with friends. https://www.pfriembeer.com/ is located right here in the great Pacific Northwest and is the proud recipient of the Brewery of the Year, Best of Craft Beer and Best BrewPub Experience awards. Pop the top on a pFriem Pilsner and see how this great spring beer lives up to the hype.
Iron Horse Brewery–High Five Hefe
If you enjoy an American Wheat Ale, this beer is for you. Boasting notes of honey and ginger, High Five Hefe isn’t as citrusy as a classic American Wheat, but every bit as flavorful. Brewed by Iron Horse Brewery in Ellensburg, WA, this craft beer is a must-have this spring!
Cascade Brewing—Apricot Pale Ale
Brewed for high levels of acidity, sour beers like Cascade Brewing’s Apricot Pale Ale have a permanent sour taste (instead of bitter or sweet). Perfect for cool evenings on the front porch. Aged with fresh apricots from right here in the PNW, this spring beer has a fruity tang you’ll love!
One Tree–Hard Cider
One Tree is a cidery in Spokane, WA that specializes in hard ciders made from apples grown right here in Washington. Their core cider flavors are Lemon Basil, Caramel Cinnamon, Huckleberry, and Staycation. Try them all, and be on the lookout for their seasonal ciders as well! While not technically a beer, One Tree Hard Cider makes our list as a refreshing addition to any cooler, whether it be lakeside, tent-side, or in the back of your boat.
Award Winning Wines to Try This Spring
Trisaetum– “2019 Coast Range Estate Dry Riesling”
This white wine from Oregon gets 93 points and “Editor’s Choice” award from Wine Enthusiast. Balanced and citrusy, pair this award winning local wine with a charcuterie board. Then, gather around the patio table for a great spring afternoon.
Kerloo Cellars–“Sodo CellarsⓇ 2019 Love Birds Rosé”
Nothing says “summer is coming” like a glass of rosé. With notes of peach, strawberries, and grapefruit, “Love Birds Rosé” is the perfect porch wine. Hailed as a “game-changing winemaker” by Wine Enthusiast, Washington’s own Kerloo Cellars has created this go-to rosé you’re sure to love.
Airfield Estates–“2018 Sauvignon Blanc”
Airfield Estates is a family operated winery nestled in Yakima Valley. Their 2018 Sauvignon Blanc was awarded “Best of Class Gold” at the 2019 Tri-Cities Wine Festival and gets a score of 89 from Wine Spectator. With notes of papaya, grapefruit, and pineapple, this sauvignon blanc will delight your palate. So, bring a summer vibe to your table this season with a bottle today!
The Best Place to Find Local Beer and Wine This Spring
Tacoma Boys and H&L produce carry all of the quality beer and wine listed above and so much more. We have over 3,000 different wines and a variety of domestic and imported beer. So we’re confident that whatever you’re spring beer or wine you’re thirsty for, we have what you need. As always our friendly associates are here to answer any questions you have and help you choose the perfect bottle or brew to take home today.
If you’ve been on the internet five minutes today, you’ve likely seen at least one moderately hilarious meme about the weight we’re all going to gain during this time at home. And with all the extra time to bake sourdough bread and neighbors dropping off porch presents in the form of baked goods every other day, the memes have a pretty good chance of getting it right. But all joking aside, what if you still want to fit into your clothes when the time comes to put some on and go out into the world? We, at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, believe that by making a few healthier choices in this season, you can come out of it looking and feeling like your best self. You may not be able to hit the gym, but we’ve compiled a list of tips for eating well while staying home.
Healthy Weight And Eating Well
Eating well is the key not only to staying a healthy weight, but it can also give you the energy you need to stay present and boost your mood. Who couldn’t use a mood boost these days? More and more research is pointing to diet as one of the major factors involved in mental health. In a time when anxiety threatens to creep in, a great way you can support your brain’s healthy function is by giving it healthy food.
Besides maintaining a reasonable weight and supporting your mental health, eating well during this time at home can help your immune system to function better. Increased immune function can help keep you from getting sick or decrease the severity of symptoms if you do. One of the best ways to support your immune system is by increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables. Packing your diet with produce gives your body the vitamins and antioxidants it needs to fight disease.
With all these great reasons to eat healthy, why not get started today? At Tacoma Boys and H&L produce, we care about your health and that of your family. We’re here to support you in your efforts. Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas for eating well while staying home.
6 Simple Tips For Healthy Eating at Home
1. Start Your Day With A Fruit
It’s easy to feel out of sorts with many of our usual rhythms interrupted. Now’s a great time to give yourself some new healthier habits right off the bat. It’s a message we hear from the time we’re kids: “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” But if preparing a full meal feels like a lot first thing in the morning, simply grabbing a fruit to eat while you drink your coffee is a great compromise. This week at Tacoma Boy’s and H&L Produce, we’re featuring our delicious Honeycrisp apples and super sweet juicy oranges. Or opt for a delicious pineapple! Just cut it up and store it in chunks in the refrigerator for an easy addition to breakfast.
2. Eat a Breakfast Packed with Protein and Good Fat
Protein and fat (the good kind found in eggs and avocados), keep you fuller longer than a breakfast packed with empty carbs. If you find yourself with more time and less hustle in the morning, it could be a great chance to focus some attention on a home cooked breakfast, like some Spicy Pulled Pork Fried Eggs. This recipe calls for slow cooker pulled pork, so you’ll want to swing by our butcher for one of our premium pork shoulders. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish when you begin your day by eating well!
3. Make Your Sandwich a Wrap
Replacing your bread with leafy vegetables like chard or romaine lettuce is a great way to get an extra serving of veggies. It also helps cut down on carbs and adds a nice crunch to your lunch. Check out our fresh produce section for a great selection of leafy green and red lettuce. Top with our deli-sliced turkey breast and black forest ham, and dice some roma tomatoes for additional color and flavor! Your taste buds and waistline will be so delighted, you’ll want to make every sandwich a wrap.
4. Snack on Veggies
If you find yourself reaching for a mid-afternoon snack, avoid foods like chips that are high in calories but nutrient-deficient. Instead, give your body foods it truly craves, like our buttery-rich Hass avocados. Cut one in half, sprinkle with sea salt, and enjoy with a spoon right out of the skin. Or enjoy the millennial-famed avocado toast. It’s famous for a reason! If avocado isn’t your speed, try making caprese with our juicy red cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and fresh mozzarella selected from our wide variety of gourmet cheeses. Replacing junk food with healthy alternatives like the above is a great way to keep eating well while staying home.
5. Have Fish Once a Week
The health benefits to eating fish regularly are numerous. Consuming fish can help heart health, brain health, and energy levels, just to name a few. And fish can be one of the simplest meals to prepare! This week at Tacoma Boys and H&L produce, we’re featuring our Wild Alaskan Salmon Fillets and Fresh Wild Red Rock Snapper Fillets. Stop by our fish counter and experience the best quality fish around!
6. Start Your Own Garden
A great way to get your greens is growing your own! Forgot to plant this spring? No problem! Tacoma Boys and H&L produce is your one-stop shop for vegetable starts this year! Avoid the crowds at the supermarket by growing your own veggies at home. Nothing beats the taste of produce grown in your own backyard. Need planting advice? Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can point you in the right direction.
Our Commitment to Helping You Stay Healthy
At Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we’re experts in the meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables you need to stay healthy. Much of our produce is locally farmed, so shopping with us is a great way to support your local farming industry while you and your family stay healthy. Our expert staff are knowledgeable and ready to help you find what you need to eat well while staying home this season.
In a world that usually hurtles through color-coded family calendars at breakneck speeds, we find ourselves with the sudden unexpected sweet and salty gift of a hard halt. No club volleyball. Virtual business meetings. No coffee dates. Just you at home with the people you care most about with nowhere to go and nothing to do. This time comes with the challenge of navigating complicated emotions—from the grief of things lost to the relief of social pressures taken away and everything in between. It also comes with a bright side–an opportunity to form habits for which we’re usually too busy. If you’re one of the many people who wants more time around the table with your kids, we’ve compiled a list to help you have great family dinners together!
Like it or not, extra time at home is the reality for most of us, and the good news is we get to choose what to do with it. Many days will likely be filled with tablets and Netflix and boredom, and that’s ok. Other days will be filled with board games and science experiments and newly invented family activities, and that’s ok too! On every day, you and your family will need to eat. And if you’re like most parents (roughly 62%) with children under 18, you probably wish your family ate more meals together. The benefits of family meals together are numerous and well documented—including lower obesity rates in children and decreased high risk behaviors in teens.
What Happened to Family Dinners?
With all of these positive results, why aren’t we eating family dinners? Simple. We’re busy. The majority of parents who say they’d like to have more family dinners cite conflicting schedules within the family as the main reason they don’t. Maybe that reason resonates all too well with you. If so, the saying holds true—there’s no time like the present! Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we value your family’s health and well being, and we have everything you need to make family dinners a success! Here are some tips to help you establish and keep a family dinner routine.
5 Tips for Successful Family Dinners
1. Keep It Simple
The most important thing about family dinners is the time spent together! So don’t get bogged down by the pressure of creating a masterpiece every night. Some days dinner might be chicken piccata and other days it will be chicken nuggets. At the end of the day, if your family is together and fed, put it in the win column. Don’t forget sandwiches count! Come by our deli for deliciously fresh sliced roast beef or honey baked ham to give your homemade sandwiches a gourmet flare. To make things a bit easier, try keeping a few pre-made sides in the freezer. Swing by one of our locations and grab a bag of frozen cauliflower rice or sweet potato fries in our frozen food section. That way, all you have to worry about is the main course, and family dinner still feels complete!
2. Plan Ahead
Nothing will torpedo your efforts quicker than failure to plan. One of the best ways to set yourself up for a successful family dinner routine is to set aside an hour one day to think about what’s for dinner the rest of the week. You don’t have to have all the details ironed out, but a general idea and a shopping list will keep you from panicking and ordering pizza by Wednesday. Try to reward yourself by planning one or two extra easy meals for yourself, like cordon-bleu chicken bakes from our deli. Minimum work for you, but a meal your whole family will rave about.
3. Find Your Rhythm
Finding your rhythm goes together with planning ahead. It can be daunting to answer the question “what’s for dinner?” week after week, and it can seem like you’re reinventing the wheel. With all the options and recipes out there, it’s easy to feel like you have to try something new and different every night. You don’t! Chances are, you have 10-14 meals your family loves and you’ve mastered. It’s ok to put them on a rotation. Or write a simple schedule out as a template for your weekly dinner rhythm. It might look something like this:
Monday—Salad
Tuesday—Crockpot meal
Wednesday—Italian/pasta
Thursday—Mexican
Friday—Seafood
Saturday—Leftovers
Sunday—Frozen Pizza
Having a list like this in the back of your mind gives you inspiration for meal ideas your family will love. It also gives you the flexibility to change it up within categories and peruse weekly specials for great deals. Consider putting our fresh steelhead fillets from Norway on this week’s rotation…you won’t regret it!
4. Loosen Up
This tip may seem contrary to the previous two, but they actually go hand in hand. Think of your meal plan and rhythm as guidelines—inspiration to make your dinner decisions easier. But pressure to stick to the plan perfectly adds an unnecessary level of difficulty to family dinners that can make them feel like more trouble than they’re worth. Your dinners should work for your life. And flexibility can make sure they do. If you were saving tacos for Tuesday, but everybody is craving them Monday, make Taco Monday a thing! If frozen pizza was for Sunday, but you’re short on time tonight, tonight’s the perfect night for pizza.
Try leaving one day of the week open for whatever suits your mood. This works especially well on grocery shopping days when you can buy whatever looks good at the store. Keeping it loose will ensure dinner is a stress free experience for everyone, especially you.
5. Don’t Forget Your Veggies
One of the great benefits to family dinner—besides time together—is health. Family dinners at home are the best way to model healthy eating habits for your kids. It’s easy to incorporate a vegetable into dinner, and including at least one can help determine a side every night. You don’t have to force vegetables, but including them in your daily routine helps your family understand that they’re part of a healthy lifestyle. At Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, you’ll always find the most quality local produce and knowledgeable employees to point you in the right direction.
Where to Shop for Great Family Dinners?
In order to set yourself up for a successful family dinner habit, you need to arm yourself with excellent ingredients. When you choose Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, you can rest assured your family dinners will be full of quality main courses and produce you can feel great about. Whether you have a shopping list and a plan or need some inspiration, we’re here for you. Stop by one of our locations and get what you need for your family dinners today!
For many reasons, this Easter is unlike any that have come before. Perhaps your gathering will be smaller than usual. Maybe you’re spending the holiday in Washington when you normally would travel. Or perhaps it’s not possible to get together with the friends you usually have over for Easter. With these many changes, we’re all faced with the question: for better or for worse? In so many ways, the answer may be beyond our control. So what do we do with the things we can control?
In this time of uncertainty and unpredictability, there are a few things that are true and unchanging. Spring is here. Easter is on its way. While ordinary may not be a choice we have this year, there is so much we can do to make this Easter special.
Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have everything you need to make this holiday unforgettable for you and your family. We’re your one stop shop for appetizers, main courses, decorations and Easter gifts. Let us help you create an atmosphere, a meal, and a memory you and your loved ones will cherish forever.
6 Ways Tacoma Boys Can Help You Have an Extraordinary Easter
1. Appetizers
Having appetizers as a part of your Easter celebration is a great way to signal to yourself and your family the significance of the meal as a special occasion. It may feel awkward or silly if your gathering is especially small, but give it a try and see if something as simple as sharing an appetizer doesn’t give your meal a holiday vibe. Swing by our frozen food section and peruse our premade appetizer options for a quick and easy appetizer spread, or gather the ingredients to make your own. Before the main meal begins is a great time to break out a classic like these Deviled Eggs from The Food Network. Or pick up a selection of fruits and berries from our produce section for a fruit salad!
2. The Main Meal
One of the best ways to make your Easter extraordinary is by going all out with the main course. Perhaps you’re craving a sense of normalcy this year, and a traditional ham would be a great option for you. In that case, we love this simple and delicious three ingredient recipe for Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham. The best part? You can throw it in the Crockpot early in the day and forget about it until go time. Or maybe this is your year to try your hand at something a bit more involved, like this Crown Roast of Lamb from Alton Brown. Alternatively, order your foolproof, mouth watering Standing Rib Roast from one of our locations today! Whether you choose ham or lamb or chicken or roast, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have expert butchers who can point you in the direction of the choicest meats in Tacoma.
3. Sides
When it comes to making this Easter Extraordinary, sides make the meal! Nothing says “Easter” like a table brimming with mouth watering dishes. Try setting out a variety of sweet and savory sides for a meal that feels balanced and complete. The sky’s the limit here, but we have some suggestions to point you in the right direction. For a sweet take on a classic veggie, these Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans are a mouthwatering addition to your feast. Or perhaps for you, Easter is incomplete if it doesn’t include scalloped potatoes. In that case, The Girl Who Ate Everything has you covered with this classic recipe you can make ahead of time. From broccoli casserole to ambrosia fruit salad, H&L Produce and Tacoma Boys’ produce sections have what you need to make it delicious.
4. Desserts
What would Easter be if we didn’t don our stretchy pants for the final stomach stuffing round we all know and love–dessert? If your Easter includes children, it’s probably all about the candy for them, so we love this take on cupcakes with a hidden candy surprise from Betty Crocker. If you’re aiming to impress a more mature audience this year, display this stunning Easter Cake from Preppy Kitchen as your table centerpiece. The hardest part will be waiting until after the meal to cut into it! Whatever sweet treat you crave this holiday, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce can help you stock your baking cupboard with everything you need for a truly extraordinary Easter.
5. Easter Baskets
Easter baskets are one of our favorite time-honored holiday traditions. Something about sleepy-eyed, bed-headed kids (and adults) waking up to a basket filled with their favorite things, delivered by the Easter Bunny right to their front door brings back the magic of childhood. This Easter, make sure the magic comes to your doorstep by stocking baskets full of goodies you can find here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. For the kids, we have local fruit and candies, and for the grown-ups–wine, cheese, jelly and more! Come choose your own goodies, or call and have us curate your gift baskets for you!
6. Flowers
Finally, no Easter would be complete without flowers–our reminder that even the longest winters come to an end, and the world will be renewed again. Stop by and pick up a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to brighten your Easter table as a centerpiece or brighten a loved one’s day as a gift. Or if you’re interested in something a bit longer lasting, check out our gorgeous assortment of potted flowering plants. Leave a potted plant on a neighbor’s doorstep as a porch present, or buy some for your own home. Our live flowers will make your Easter extraordinary, indoors and out.
Treasuring the Time
Easter is a sign of change–the darkness of winter will dissipate, days will grow brighter and warmer, and whatever gloom has come before will not reign forever. Now, more than ever, we need this reminder. In a string of days spent at home, it would be easy to let the holiday come and go without marking the occasion as a special one for yourself and your family. On the other hand, it could be a day full of thoughtful touches and intentionality that sets it apart not just from the days immediately preceding it, but from every Easter you’ve experienced before. This year, Easter is what you make it. Why not make it extraordinary?
Eating the recommended 1-3 cups of vegetables a day can be a daunting and sometimes unappetizing prospect, especially if your taste buds aren’t on board. Luckily, there are many simple and delicious ways to trick yourself into getting all you need. Check out these seven ways veggies made great can help you sneak them in, and maybe even enjoy them!
If the idea of snacking on a head of raw broccoli doesn’t sound like your idea of a good time, you may be like the 90% of Americans who aren’t eating enough vegetables. If you think of vegetables as nothing more than an unpleasant obligation, maybe it’s time to try some of the many ways veggies made great can revolutionize your eating habits. From breakfast to dinner and every snack in between, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have everything you need to get all the veggies you need in a day.
Tricking Your Tastebuds
1. Start your morning with a smoothie
If starting your day with a mouth full of raw spinach seems like a rough way to begin, try easing yourself into your morning with a smoothie you’ll actually enjoy, and likely start to crave. Start with a cup or two of raw spinach or kale in your blender. You’d be surprised at how much you can pack into a single serving! Add one banana (or some of our fresh berries), a half cup of vanilla yogurt, one frozen banana, and half a cup of milk or almond milk. Blend and add more milk or yogurt to your desired consistency. Now you’ve already had one serving of vegetables and one serving of fruit, and you’re just getting started!
2. Saute some vegetables into a breakfast scramble
Maybe you prefer to start your day with something savory rather than sweet. A great way to get your morning started with veggies made great is by adding them to an egg scramble. Start by sauteing chopped onions and garlic in olive oil. Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, peppers, oven roasted tomatoes and cheese. So many veggies in one delicious meal! Who says breakfast can’t be fancy?
3. Snack on crunchy Kale Chips
If you crave the salty crunch of chips, you’ll find yourself reaching for these Baked Kale Chips as a regular mid-afternoon snack. Why settle for bagged potato chips when you can delight your taste buds and tummy with something that’s actually good for you? Start by trimming the leaves from the stem of your kale. Discard the stem and chop the leaves into 1-inch pieces. Toss in enough vegetable oil to coat. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and sprinkle generously with sea salt. Bake at 350℉ for 10-15 minutes, until the edges are brown, but not burnt. Snack away!
4. Dip your veggies in a healthier alternative to ranch
Love ranch but hate the calories? Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we carry a great selection of Walden Farms salad dressings. These calorie-free, fat-free, gluten-free dressings will have you dipping and snacking on baby carrots, juicy grape tomatoes, and red peppers to your heart’s content without adding to your waistline.
5. Have a side of sweet potato fries
Why should you choose sweet potato fries over regular fries? Sweet potatoes have more health benefits than white potatoes, including more vitamin A and fewer calories. Make your own sweet potato fries with this recipe from The New York Times, or pick up a bag from our frozen section here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. Add sweet potato fries to the menu next time you make burgers or sliders and see how veggies made great can elevate your dinner experience.
6. Create gourmet pizzas at home with cauliflower pizza dough
What’s better than homemade pizza? Homemade pizza that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. You can find cauliflower pizza dough at Tacoma Boys and H&L produce. You’ll love this gluten-free, tasty alternative to traditional pizza dough. Top it with whatever you’d like, and enjoy guilt free! If you’re feeling ambitious, try the Chicken Pesto Pizza recipe from our blog.
7. Try cauliflower rice as a substitute for white rice
This delicious alternative to plain rice adds sophistication to any dinner. While white rice can serve as a bit of a bland placeholder, cauliflower rice is a flavorful side you’ll want to make again and again. Much lower in calories and carbs than its white rice counterpart, you can load up on cauliflower rice and get all the fiber and Vitamin B this vegetable has to offer. Pick up a head of cauliflower from our produce section at Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce and try this recipe from Minimalist Baker, or grab a bag of frozen cauliflower rice from our frozen section. For even more veggies made great, saute stir-fry veggies in olive oil, top with teriyaki sauce, and enjoy over a bowl of cauliflower rice.
Where to find great produce locally?
Adding vegetables to your diet every day has numerous benefits, from boosting your immune system, energy level, and mood to improving your skin and eye health. So where can you find the best produce for your family? Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce buys produce directly from the source, and it’s often grown locally, so you can feel great about the quality of the vegetables you’re eating. Your breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and dinners are sure to impress with the flavor, color, and nutrition you get from veggies made great. So why not give one or two of these ideas a try? For the best selection of produce, there’s no better place to shop locally than Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. Come in and speak to our knowledgeable staff for help selecting the best vegetables from our produce section today!