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Hosting a Memorial Day barbecue in the backyard is a classic tradition for many in the U.S. It tends to mark the beginning of the summer and grilling season. Memorial Day is for remembering and honoring the Americans all throughout history who have lost their lives while serving the country. While respecting Memorial Day and those who have served, it’s often a day spent grilling good food, spending time with good company, and enjoying the warming weather!

Memorial Day Barbecue in the Backyard

It’s time to get ready for a meal at home with the family for a Memorial Day barbecue! This year, Memorial Day is May 31st, a perfect lead into June and the start of summer. The long weekend is often celebrated with camping, cookouts, and summer-centric foods cooked on the grill. Kick off grilling season by preparing your favorites and setting up the backyard for a fun and easy Memorial Day celebration. If you’re looking forward to a backyard barbecue this year, Tacoma Boys has just a few tips to make it an extra enjoyable experience! If you’re wanting an outdoor grill to put in your backyard, head here for some help when choosing outdoor kitchen appliances so that you can get started experiencing the joys of cooking in the open air.

Tips & Tricks

• Clean up your backyard ahead of time. Make it easy to set up by cleaning and preparing the area ahead of time. If you’ve got a lot of clutter in the backyard, consider getting a storage shed from Backyard Storage or elsewhere to store all of that and clear up the space. Oh, and it’s probably time to break out the lawn mower for the first trim of the season!
• Set up the grill. Ensure your grill is ready to kick off the summer season by checking your levels of propane or charcoal. Clean the grill and round up your tools (spatula, tongs, grill fork, oven mitts, etc.). For grilling pellets, try BBQR’s Delight Hickory Pellet Grill Fuel.
• Stock up on supplies. Tacoma Boys is your one-stop shop for all the food you need for a Memorial Day barbecue. Specifically, a huge selection of several condiments means you can add extra flavor and customize the meal! Try Stonewall Kitchen Roasted Garlic Aioli or Sweet Honey Mustard on your burger or with grilled potatoes. If you’re looking for other options for your diet, try Chosen Foods Vegan or Keto Mayo to start. If you like pickled foods, Tacoma Boys offers a variety of options like Pickled Garden Medley, Peppered Pickles, Pickled Okra, German Sauerkraut, and much more.
• Set up yard games and decor. If you have outdoor or Memorial Day-themed decorations, now’s the time to put them up! And yard games are a fun activity to pass the time while the food is cooking and to even sneak in some exercise.

Memorial Day Activities

When you dust off the grill and start planning your Memorial Day activities, there are a few things to keep in mind. Memorial Day is a great time to enjoy a backyard barbecue. But it’s also a time to participate in other activities to observe the holiday while still having fun kicking off the summer season. This Memorial Day, take some time out of your day with the family to commemorate the holiday and honor those who have lost their lives.

Observe National Moment Of Remembrance

The National Moment of Remembrance is when Americans take a moment at 3:00pm local time to remember those who have died in military service. It’s a simple minute of silence uniting the nation and honoring Memorial Day.

Crafts for Kids

With a day off work and school for many families, you may be looking for Memorial Day activities to do with your kids. Take a moment to teach the kids what Memorial Day is all about while crafting. Think red, white, and blue construction paper or meaningful poppies. Any time is a good time to get creative with the kids!

Outdoor Activities

Remember those yard games? To celebrate the start of summer, get active, and just have fun bonding with your family, grab some games. This could be horseshoes, cornhole, croquet, or even potato sack races! There are a variety of different creative yard games to choose from now.

Community Events

Many towns host parades, monuments, and events to celebrate Memorial Day and honor those who have served. Check in on your local community centers and city hall to see how your neighborhood is marking Memorial Day.

Barbecue Recipes

To get ready for an extraordinary backyard barbecue, plan a few barbecue recipes for Memorial Day. This could include classic cookout foods like grilled burgers and hot dogs, potato salad, chips and salsa, and fresh summer fruit. Grab some of Tacoma Boys pre-made burger patties like jalapeño pepper jack Kobe burgers or applewood bacon cheddar burgers. You could also try some of these barbecue recipes for Memorial Day:

• Grilled chicken or fish slathered with one of Tacoma Boys many barbecue and grilling sauces. Try Peach Chipotle Sauce, Smoky Maple Glaze, Horseradish Barbecue Sauce, Citrus Grilling Sauce, and much more.
• Seasonal grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, Walla Walla onions, and sweet corn.
• Greek Pasta Salad with feta cheese, cucumber, olives, chickpeas, and a balsamic dressing.
• Summer salad with radish, mixed greens, and parmesan cheese. Start with this recipe by Cooking Light.
• Grilled red potatoes: Simply slice into rounds, grease with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook on a hot grill for 10 minutes, until charred on both sides and fork tender. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup, mustard, and barbecue sauce.

Prep for Memorial Day at Tacoma Boys

Stop at Tacoma Boys for everything you need for a delicious Memorial Day weekend barbecue! Stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

One delicious way to enjoy the change of the season comes by way of bright and light spring cocktails. Fresh fruit, blooming florals, and earthy herbs are the backbone of good craft cocktails! That’s why spring is a great time to use those fresh seasonal ingredients for beverages. What sounds more relaxing than a sunny spring afternoon with a tasty and refreshing cocktail in hand!? These drinks reflect a change in season and spring produce. It’s easy to get creative with the foods and flavors available in the Pacific Northwest, like jam, elderberries, and local honey! These cocktails are super quick to mix up and a welcome addition to any brunch or al fresco dining experience. 

Quick & Easy Spring Cocktails

There are so many occasions to enjoy spring cocktails. Equipped with basic recipes and quality ingredients, you can be prepared to mix up fun and refreshing cocktails on a whim! Try these spring cocktails for a Sunday brunch, an afternoon of leisure on the back deck, or a dinner party with close friends or family. 

If you’re not one to mix up your own cocktail, Tacoma Boys offers a wide selection of pre-mixed cocktails and other libations. Along with beer and wine, you can also find hard cider, seltzers, kombucha, and more: 

• Rancho la Gloria Margarita Wine Cocktail in strawberry and traditional lime
• Hoxie Dry Wine Spritzer in peach blossom rose and grapefruit elderflower
• Stonewall Kitchen Sriracha Bloody Mary Mixer
• Jose Cuervo Strawberry Margarita Mix
• Stirrings Simple Mojito Mix

Tacoma Boy’s Favorite Spring Cocktail Recipes

These spring cocktail recipes take into account the new season with extra outdoor time and seasonal Washington ingredients. Using a mix of common barside staples and fresh fruit and herbs, you can perfect a number of spring cocktails. And thanks to Tacoma Boys selection of speciality food products, deluxe ingredients like rose water and pure fruit juices are easy to acquire.

Rosemary Gin and Jam Fizz

• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 2 oz gin
• Fresh lemon juice – about 1 oz
• 1 tbsp Nature’s Hollow Strawberry Jam \
• Sparkling water to top

Add the gin and rosemary to a cocktail shaker and muddle well (check out some tips for good muddling here!). Add the lemon juice, strawberry jam, and ice. Shake well, for about one minute, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water and garnish with another spring of rosemary and a strawberry, if desired.

Make it a mocktail: Nix the gin and muddle the rosemary with the lemon juice instead. Shake with the strawberry jam and a dash of water and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with extra sparkling water.

Lemon Ginger White Tea

• 1 oz white rum
• 2 oz Bigelow White Tea, brewed and chilled
• ½ oz Volcano Lemon Ginger Burst Juice
• ½ oz Spring Valley Honey

Combine and shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a serving glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel. 

Make it a mocktail: Simply forgo the white rum and enjoy!

Blended Basil Berry Margarita 

• ½ cup frozen Remlinger Farms Handpicked Berry Medley
• 5 basil leaves
• 2 oz tequila
• ½ oz triple sec
• 1 oz lime juice
• 2 tsp Wholesome Organic Raw Blue Agave

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a serving glass and garnish with fresh or frozen berries and basil leaves on top.

Make it a mocktail: Instead of tequila and triple sec, add a splash of orange juice to the blender.

Grapefruit Rose Cocktail

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 ½ oz R.W. Knudsen Organic Grapefruit Juice
• ½ oz Cortas Rose Water
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 2 dashes bitters 

Combine and shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a grapefruit wheel.

Make it a mocktail: Instead of vodka, bump up the rose water to 1 ounce and the grapefruit juice to 2 ounces. Combine in a cocktail shaker and strain. Top with sparkling water.

Washington’s Elderberry Apple Whiskey

• 2 oz whiskey
• 2 oz pure apple juice 
• 1 oz sour apple liqueur (schnapps)
• ½ oz Sylling’s Elderberry Syrup

Combine and shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a serving glass. If desired, garnish with an apple slice or wheel.

Make it a mocktail: Swap out the whiskey for a dash of extra apple juice. Instead of sour apple liqueur, use ½ oz sour apple flavored syrup.

Cocktails Made With Seasonal Produce

Living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, it’s not complicated to use local and seasonal produce to make your food and drink. You can craft delicious cocktails made with seasonal produce that will taste as fresh as the ingredients you use! It’s a good way to stay centered with nature and make use of readily available resources. And at Tacoma Boys, you’re sure to find the freshest local, seasonal produce.

For an overview on what’s coming into season in the Pacific Northwest and the benefits of eating seasonally, check out this guide by Simplicity Nutrition. Along with plenty of greens, several varieties of fruit and herbs are in season in the spring. For other food products, look to shop locally. Tacoma Boys offers a wide selection of locally made honeys, syrups, beverages, and more.

Swing on by!

Stop by to get the supplies you need to start celebrating spring with delicious cocktails! If you’re looking for a specialty product, just ask and one of our guides will be happy to help. And to stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

As we move further into the warm season, the opportunity for spring activities is finally here! For many people, this means getting active and venturing outdoors for exercise and fresh air. Whether that means hiking, biking, long walks, or simply a relaxing day at the lake, many are ready to enjoy the nice weather and seasonal activities regularly. But getting out of the house and springing into action means preparing and taking food along to keep you going.

Spring Activities for the Family

Some families and kids love to get really involved in spring activities with sports and more. It’s a great time to get kids outside and encourage healthy habits (like exercising and spending time in nature). Many families participate in such spring activities because it’s important to stay active and generally move your body in your free time! That’s why hobbies like biking, long walks, and sports like softball and soccer are so common in the springtime. But if you have an active family, you’re likely constantly looking for new ways to keep the energy up with healthy food as nourishment.

• When hiking, biking, kayaking, etc.: Go for finger foods and easy-to-eat snacks. This means cut vegetables, energy bars, nuts and seeds, and anything else that doesn’t require a fork or spoon. You can continue the activity without having to stop for a snack break or to sit down to eat.

• When picnicking, boating, watching sports, etc.: You could get a bit more creative with sit-down foods like salads, sandwiches and wraps, or something that requires two hands for dipping (like fruit and nut butter). Meal-prep ahead of time so you’re ready to go when you’re in the mood for more relaxed spring activities.

Snacks for Active Kids

It can be hard to come up with snacks for active kids at the last minute. It seems like they’re always hungry! But by keeping stocked on some staples, you can be sure to have food ready to go when you’re on the move or getting ready for those spring activities. Snacks for active kids and families should usually include fresh fruit or vegetables, fiber, and protein: Grabbing two or three ingredients in lunchbox-style snacking is quick and doable for many families. Some examples of this style of snacking include:

• Pear and Boar’s Head Gouda Cheese
• Apples and SunButter Sunflower Seed Butter
• Carrots, crackers, and Nomad Food Co. Hummus
• Berries and Ellenos Greek Yogurt
• Cucumbers, sliced turkey, and Northwest Delights Raw Almonds 
• Celery, Wonderful Pistachios, and Nancy’s Probiotic Cream Cheese
• Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps and Wholly Guacamole

Anything can be a snack if you keep moderation in check! It’s easy to start with whatever your kids enjoy and get more creative and healthy from there. For more ideas, browse Tacoma Boys blog all about healthy spring snacks.

Family Friendly Recipes for Any Time

When everyone is involved in the activity, you’ll need to have family friendly recipes that everyone will enjoy. This means making sure it’s something that everyone likes to eat that’s also nutritious and full of protein and fiber to keep you going throughout a busy day.  Plan family friendly recipes for when the whole family is out participating in spring activities as well as the end of an active day.

• Three Bean Salad by Little Spice Jar: Throw the salad in a jar for a super easy way to meal prep ahead of time and take things on the go!
• Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies by Gimme Delicious: Sheet pan dinners are popular because they are so easy to prepare and clean up. You can even cook everything ahead of time and throw the whole thing back in the oven when it’s time to chow down.
• Classic Italian Sub: This easy-to-make sandwich is a sure-fire way to please the kids and feel full and satisfied.
• Breakfast burritos: Make a batch of burritos with different fillings like eggs, potatoes, vegetables, and sausage. Fill them up and freeze for quick and easy reheating in the morning!
• Homemade trail mix: Tacoma Boys has everything you need for a homemade trail mix made your way, like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, chocolate chips, and more. Try a blend of almonds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and freeze dried strawberries for something new for the family to munch on.

Prepare For Spring Activities with Tacoma Boys

Whatever you and your family feel like doing to get active this spring, there are a variety of ways to stay nourished and healthy through food. It’s all about preparing ahead of time and having fun in the kitchen! For more inspiration and ideas, check out Tacoma Boys recipes and then stop on by to see what’s in store for you. And to stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

The Pacific Northwest is ripe with produce all year round, but there’s something special to be said about spring produce. Think of all the bright fruits, earthy herbs, and hearty vegetables. Plus, the anticipation of more sweet fruits coming in the summertime. It’s easy and delicious to make simple healthy meals and snacks using fresh spring produce. And it’s a good idea to think about shopping locally and seasonally year round!

The Best Spring Produce

Spring produce in the Pacific Northwest includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and legumes (like peas). Apricots, rhubarb, asparagus, and mixed greens are well on their way. Green peas, radishes, and watercress are also growing and ready for a spring produce harvest. The variety makes it that much easier to get creative when you cook all year long. 

This spring produce can be used in so many different ways and perfectly seasoned with tasty herbs. Chives, oregano, and thyme grow strong in the spring. Mint, rosemary, and sage are solid herbs that keep on growing all year round. Look forward to nectarines, berries, squash, and tomatoes coming next in the summertime!

Pacific Northwest Produce Tastes Delicious

This is a time of year when many home gardeners will start to spend more time growing and harvesting more Pacific Northwest produce. Spring gardening is a hobby that pays off in a tasty way. If you’re interested in growing your own spring produce, try starting with herbs! It’s a small and simple way to reap the benefits of gardening in the Pacific Northwest: Take a peek at Tacoma Boys guide to herb gardening here. 

How to Cook With Pacific Northwest Produce

Now that you’ve got your Pacific Northwest produce in hand, you may be wondering what to do with it all. When cooking at any time of year, think about how to use what’s in season: Take advantage of the freshness of the Pacific Northwest produce. Here are a few ways to cook with Pacific Northwest spring produce:

• Make a salad using mixed greens, sliced radishes, watercress, and tomatoes. Top it off with your favorite Terrapin Ridge Farms Salad Dressing and Fresh Gourmet Garden Herb Croutons for a refreshing appetizer. 
• Sauté vegetables in a stir fry with legumes and Westbrae Natural Organic Mellow Miso in a flavorful sauce. Stop by the Tacoma Boys deli counter for an already prepared cheese stuffed chicken breast and you’re on your way to a satisfying dinner in almost no time!
• Get grilling with those vegetables and herbs. The weather is warming and it’s the perfect time to have an outdoor barbecue dinner! Throw some asparagus on a hot grill next to one of Tacoma Boys Angus Tri-Tip Steaks. Then leave a sprig of rosemary on the grill for a minute to bring out some smoky flavors and make it into an herb butter for the steak.
• Cook a soup with fresh herbs to season and legumes and vegetables at the base. Though we love soup to warm in the winter, it’s delicious and nutritious any time of the year!

However you decide to enjoy your favorite Pacific Northwest produce, Tacoma Boys has everything you need to get cooking. Try your favorite go-to meals with a swap for spring produce this week! And even if you’re not one to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, you’ll surely appreciate the freshness of it all. 

Shop Local for Spring Produce

You may have heard that it’s important to shop local. But why? First, it stimulates and supports your local economy! This means your neighbors and your friends’ businesses. When you shop local, you support local farms and help them keep the crops coming for next season. There’s something new and tasty to look forward to every few months!

It’s also sustainable to shop local and eat what’s in season near you: Products don’t have to travel long distances over time to get to you. And when local seasonal produce doesn’t have to sit around for a long time, it’s fresh and bright in color when you get it.

When you shop local and enjoy food products that are in season and nearby, you’ll consume a variety of nutrients. The Pacific Northwest is ripe with so many different kinds of fruits and vegetables! Produce is constantly being harvested from farms across the state and nearby regions. What are you looking forward to cooking next? Get creative!

Shop Seasonal at Tacoma Boys

Although enjoying local spring produce is a good idea, Tacoma Boys is able to provide fresh produce from all seasons. Whatever fresh fruit or vegetable you have in mind, just come on by and ask if you don’t see it. We’re happy to help! To stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

What better way to spend Mother’s Day than outside? By now, it’s clear that spring has arrived: Flowers are blooming, birds are chirping, and the sun is shining. This year’s Mother’s Day still might look a little different than many families are used to. So if you’re looking for something creative to do to celebrate and honor the moms in your life, consider taking things outside for a spectacular dinner in the fresh air! Al fresco dining is great for casual everyday meals, but can be made even more special for such an occasion like Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day Is Almost Here!

This year’s Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 9. To make a special celebration for the mothers in your life, try planning an outdoor dinner at home! It’s a great opportunity to show them your love and appreciation. Though an at-home outdoor dinner is simple, there are some things you can do to make things extraordinary for mom.

• Set the scene! Dress up the dinner table with mom’s favorite spring flowers, like Tacoma Boys fresh bouquets, tulips, and primroses. Outdoor lights strung above the table are an easy way to elevate the atmosphere of your backyard patio setting. Consider placing lights elsewhere too. Lights can add depth to a garden when night falls, and they’re good for safety as well. Don’t worry about not having any outlets to plug lights into – solar lights are easy to get hold of these days, like these solar lights for flag poles that will help to light up your front yard flag.
• Make her favorite. Mother’s Day is certainly a great time to make mom’s favorite appetizer, dinner, or dessert. Challenge yourself to make a full multi-course meal with all of her favorite foods!
• Treat her to a tipple. Your mom works hard every day of the year to look after you, so she deserves a treat at least once a year! Look for a liquor store open in your area and buy her favourite drink, then get her to put her feet up and just relax with a wine glass in hand.
• Include friends and family. Coordinate with the rest of mom’s family or her close friends for a video call or gifts. She will appreciate the extra thought of including others.

Celebrate with Mother’s Day Activities

When planning Mother’s Day activities for mom and the family, simply think of everything she loves to do. First, take the party outside for a beautiful dinner that will blow mom away and highlight the flavors of the season. If mom likes to cook, ask her to join in when preparing dinner. Cooking together is such a great bonding experience!

For an extraordinary outdoor dining experience at home, consider lawn games or other creative Mother’s Day activities. While munching on appetizers, mom can enjoy the outdoors while basking in the late-afternoon sun or even cuddled in front of a backyard campfire. Take this time to bring up your favorite childhood memories or talk about what you or others have learned from mom. Then, try to plan to spend that sunset hour outdoors so mom can appreciate the pretty colors of the setting sun in the sky. You could even venture out for a sunset-backed walk!

If you don’t have the space for outdoor dinner at home, opt for an afternoon picnic instead. It’s the perfect time of year for lunch al fresco at a local park or beach. For some guidance on how to prepare for an awesome spring picnic experience, check out our blog filled with spring picnic tips here.

What’s Cooking For Mother’s Day Dinner?

Prepare for the special day ahead of time by planning what to cook for Mother’s Day dinner. You could ask her directly what she wants to eat, or surprise her with something yummy you just know will make her feel extra special. The options are endless – but here are just a few potential ideas to get your Mother’s Day dinner menu started.

• Parmesan crusted chicken breast with cheese and marinara: Mom doesn’t have to know you picked it right from Tacoma Boys deli counter! Tacoma Boys makes it just that much easier to get started on a spectacular dinner with such pre-prepared chicken breast and other meat and seafood. Pair it with some Roasted Potatoes with Herbed Olive Oil and Goat Cheese for a tasty, elevated meal.
• Parmesan polenta made with P.A.N. White Corn Meal with roasted seasonal vegetables, fresh rosemary, and Alessi’s Balsamic Reduction: This recipe by Family Style Food is just right for the special occasion. All you need is a simple tossed salad on the side for a complete dinner!
• It’s just about time for the grilling season: You find all the ingredients for Grilled Flank Steak with Dark Cherry Chipotle Sauce at Tacoma Boys.
• For dessert, a creamy cheesecake can be made ahead of time and is sure to be enjoyed by everyone: This recipe for Mini Key Lime Cheesecakes is sure to impress!

Prepare for Dinner with Tacoma Boys

Stop in to your local Tacoma Boys to get just about everything you need for a spectacular outdoor Mother’s Day dinner at home! This includes beautiful flowers, local produce, mom’s favorite beer and wine, and tons of speciality food ingredients. To stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

Few food pairs are as timeless and versatile as oil and vinegar. There are several types of oils and vinegars harvested and produced in the world: Different varieties of each are useful in a wide range of cooking methods and recipes in every cuisine. Mixing the two is a popular way to make use of both versatile, tasty, and often healthful ingredients.

Why Pair Oil and Vinegar

The combination of oil and vinegar has long been used in many cuisines for several dishes. Acidic vinegar balances and contrasts with fatty oil in a base for salad dressings, marinades, and more. Whether you’re looking at popular olive oil, nutty coconut oil, pungent sesame oil, or neutral avocado oil, there’s a way to make use of it alongside trusty vinegar. For example, olive oil and balsamic vinegar are a classic pair — and always available at Tacoma Boys in many varieties! To fully taste the classic combination, dip pieces of bread into a shallow bowl full of Stonewall Kitchen Aged Balsamic Vinegar, Napa Valley Natural Organic Extra Virgin Basil-Infused Olive Oil, and herbs. This recipe for Bread Dipping Oil is a good guide with step-by-step instructions on how to assemble such a dip.

Once you notice how useful and common the combination of oil and vinegar is, you will start to see it in everything! Some of the best salad dressings, sauces, dips, spreads, soups, and marinades rely on these two ingredients.

Health Benefits of Oil and Vinegar 

Aside from adding flavor and texture to a meal, consuming certain oils and vinegars can provide nutrients and health benefits. Like most any food, the health benefits vary between different types – And moderation is always key. Avocado oil and olive oil are common favorites in the world of oils: Although they contain fats, these fats are monounsaturated. That means they’re the good, healthy fats that regulate cholesterol and give you everyday energy. 

Vinegar certainly provides health benefits because it is a fermented food. Alongside fermented friends like yogurt, pickles, and sauerkraut, these foods contain probiotics that help maintain digestion and an overall healthy gut. Fermented foods also support your immune system. Apple cider vinegar is one variety that is hailed for its health benefits: Some people drink Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar straight from the bottle to reap its immune-boosting rewards!

For an example, olive oil mixed with balsamic vinegar can:

• Provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties
• Lower unhealthy cholesterol levels
• Reduce diabetes risk
• Improve blood flow and reduce hypertension

Cooking with Oil and Vinegar 

When cooking with oil and vinegar, it’s important to account for the taste of both and the smoke point of oils. Heating oils with a low smoke point, like olive oil, can result in burned oil and a smoky kitchen. Rather, try opting for “high heat” oils that won’t burn in your skillet. Avocado oil is growing in popularity for its use in high heat cooking. Same goes for refined coconut oil (which is flavorless).

Olive oil, while not ideal for cooking at a high temperature, should have a pleasant taste. Same goes for some other oils like sesame oil. This is why they’re often used as a flavor agent in dressing and dips: In fact, consuming olive oil raw is the most nutritious way to do it! Next time you go to sauté some onions or whip up a salad dressing, keep this in mind. Cooking with oil and vinegar utilizes fat and acid. These are two of some of the main tenets of good cooking that will help you achieve a balanced-tasting meal! Adding a dash of vinegar to soups, stews, sauces, and salads are as easy way to balance things out with a little acidity.

Vinaigrettes

If you add oil and vinegar to the same container, you’ll notice they don’t easily mix. However, you can emulsify oil and vinegar with some firm whisking and a bit of patience.This is the definition of a vinaigrette!

• Aside from tasting delicious on a salad, a vinaigrette can make up the base of a marinade for meat and vegetables. 
• The oil in a vinaigrette will coat the meat to allow seasonings to stick while the vinegar will tenderize the meat. Both add great flavor.
• Add seasonings and other ingredients to bring out the best taste in your meal! Herbs, garlic, onion, salt, black pepper, and spreads like dijon mustard are common additions to vinaigrettes. 
• Give it a shot using this Basic Vinaigrette Recipe with a couple variations. 

Grilled Caprese Chicken

One of our favorite ways to enjoy balsamic vinegar is on this tasty Grilled Caprese Chicken dish. After grilling the chicken with avocado oil, a good drizzle of balsamic vinegar will pull those flavors together perfectly. 

Stop By For Supplies!

Tacoma Boys stock of speciality products ensures you’ll find just the right oil and vinegar for your cooking needs. This includes Delallo vinegars, Napoleon olive oils and vinegars, Spectrum Sunflower and Coconut Oil, Roland truffle oils, and much more. If you ever have a question or need help finding your favorite, don’t ever hesitate to ask! To stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

The air is warming, the flowers are blooming, and it’s just about time for a spring picnic. Springtime brings with it the chance to pack up some food, find a cozy patch of grass and roll out the blanket. Whatever else you like to do outdoors is up to you —Anyone up for a round of croquet?!— But tasty food, good company, and a nice space in the grass are timeless tenants of a spring picnic.

It’s easy to put together a spring picnic for you and your friends, significant other, or even  solo! And it’s a great way to take advantage of the nice weather while we have the chance. You’re going to eat anyway— Might as well do it in a fun, different setting! But some people may not know where to start and how to plan for a fun afternoon picnicking. It doesn’t have to be complicated: However, Tacoma Boys has a few tips to get you ready for a season full of spring picnics.

Spring Picnic Tips

As lovely as a spring picnic sounds, some small details can trip you up and make for a less-than-ideal experience. Try to plan ahead and be prepared with sunscreen, water, utensils, plates, and of course, several snacks. And never forget the napkins, lest your adorable picnic blanket be subject to greasy fingers or small spills. Coolers are a good idea, too, if you plan to spend more than a couple hours enjoying the sunshine.

To make it an extra special spring picnic, place one of Tacoma Boys’ fresh flower bouquets in the center of your picnic blanket! 

Another suggestion to avoid bugs involves something you usually don’t bring outside: Light scented candles, specifically citrus-scented, to help ward away bees, gnats, flies, etc.

Location, Location, Location

The local public park is good. Your own backyard is fine. But this is a time to get creative! Think of your favorite nearby viewpoint, sandy beach, or grassy lake. The space doesn’t need to be fit with benches and waist-high picnic tables to host a lovely afternoon spring picnic. However, outdoor areas with picnic tables can be convenient. Whatever gets you to enjoy your spring picnic outdoors will work great! 

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Picnic Recipes 

Before you go flocking to local parks or migrating to the backyard, you’ll want to have some picnic recipes ready to go. These are just a few light snacks and foods that can be picnic-perfect.

• This is a great time to take advantage of Tacoma Boys’ deli grab-and-go foods, like packaged Baked Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, or Sicilian Pasta Salad. These salads are easy to nibble on all afternoon and so delicious! 
• Picnic recipes can be as simple as filling cut raw celery full of Sabra Roasted Garlic Hummus or Tillamook Cream Cheese. Just top with your favorite nuts and seeds!
• Other finger foods like chopped raw vegetables with Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dip and Crescent Meats Spicy Sticks are great for picnicking. 
• Everyone loves chips and salsa! Tacoma Boys offers several varieties of jarred and fresh packaged salsas like Gourmet Pico de Gallo and Hatch Tomatillo Salsa. Plus, Tacoma Boys Blue Corn Tortilla Chips will add a fun burst of color to your spring picnic spread.
• Charcuterie boards are one of the easiest customizable picnic recipes. Tacoma Boys’ wide selection of snackable and specialty meat and cheese, like Boar’s Head Rolled Mozzarella & Prosciutto, and Creminelli Uncured Italian Salami are a simple base to your charcuterie board. 

Eating Outside & The Benefits of Being in Nature

What better way to reap the benefits of nature in such sunny weather than with a spring picnic? There’s solid evidence that spending time outdoors, while eating or not, can reduce stress. Especially when the weather begins to warm, being around nature in the fresh open air is a great mood-booster. 

Dining al fresco has been a fun, casual way to spend time and make memories with your loved ones for centuries. The natural setting is laid-back and allows for more focus on food and friends. When you take your lunch or afternoon snacks outside, it’s easier to take time to appreciate the food you’re enjoying and soak in the benefits of nature! 

Celebrate Earth Day While You’re At It

If you happen to be out and about on April 22, make the effort to appreciate and sustain our planet’s resources. Earth Day on April 22 is all about taking time to respect and care for the environment. Opt for reusable utensils made with the likes of metal or bamboo, and glass mason jars rather than disposable to-go containers. Also consider:

• Cloth napkins, which are eco-friendly and aesthetic.
• Finger foods are your friend! This reduces the need for plates and utensils.
• A small garbage bag for the waste you will have to dispose of.
• A nature walk after your picnic. Reap the benefits of nature by simply taking in the scene.

Get Prepped at Tacoma Boys

It’s quite easy to throw together a basket full of food and get out to enjoy the springtime in nature. When you’re ready for a spring picnic, Tacoma Boys can help you get prepared. Stop by for grab-and-go foods, snacks, and any other ingredients you need to create your perfect picnic. For more tips on an enjoyable afternoon picnicking, check out our summer picnic guide from last year. And to stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

Reusing your vegetable scraps is just one way to make an effort to be more environmentally conscious. By making use of those vegetable scraps in other cooking, you can reduce food waste and maybe even save a little money while you’re at it. One main way to use vegetable scraps is to make a broth or stock out of it. Read on further to learn more about how to help reduce food waste by using those leftover vegetable scraps.

A home herb garden is a beautiful way to add aroma and flavor to your kitchen. It’s easy for any beginner or advanced gardener to get started growing a variety of herbs. Herb gardens are simply a group of live herbs growing in a container of soil. Usually, an herb garden is grown indoors so the freshest seasonings are right at your fingertips. Then you can grab some garnish for a ‘Gram-worthy plating or whip up homemade sauces quickly! 

Herb Gardens

An indoor herb garden is easy to care for because you can keep a close eye on it. It requires just a small amount of maintenance for a big, tasty payoff. Use whatever herbs you want! Common herbs to start your herb garden include basil, rosemary, oregano, thyme, parsley, dill, and sage. These are used often to cook dishes in cuisines all over the world.

Herb gardens are a great way to save money and waste less, too. Purchasing packs of herbs in plastic packaging is a thing of the past! You can simply pick them fresh from your herb garden whenever you need a little extra something for your meal. A pretty kitchen and tasty food has never been so simple.

Starting an Herb Garden

Starting an herb garden is one of the easiest ways to add extra pizazz to your meals. It’s as easy as picking a sunny spot (like the kitchen windowsill) and selecting your favorite herbs. Avoid invasive herbs like mint, which grows abundantly like a weed. Pre-made kits make starting an herb garden quick, but it’s easy to put your own together with fresh starts or cuttings of plants. You can use herbs already planted in soil and just transplant them to your container of choice. Tacoma Boys offers a wide range of potting soil for your fresh herbs to grow in a raised bed or container.

If you’d rather take it outside or take things on the go, Tacoma Boys’ various ceramic pots are a beautiful option. Our guide on planting herbs in ceramic pots offers some great tips on choosing just the right pot.

How To Care For Herb Gardens

One reason starting an herb garden is so simple is because of the low maintenance required. It’s quite easy to care for your herb garden and doesn’t require extra materials. Some people may opt for plant food or fertilizer, but it’s not necessary. 

• Water the herbs once or twice a week, depending on what herbs are planted. To see if your herbs are thirsty, touch the first inch or so of the soil of the plant. If it feels dry, go ahead and gently water the roots.
• Harvest the herbs regularly as you cook and eat. Frequent harvesting is good! It encourages further growth of the plant. Go ahead and dry or freeze the fresh herbs if you won’t use them immediately. 
• Sun is important for your herb garden. Some herbs like more or less sunlight, but most will do well with an average of a few hours per day.
• Prune flowers when they pop up. It’s not necessary, but some herbs such as oregano and thyme will sprout flower blooms in the spring and summer. To keep your plant bushy and encourage growth of leaves (the part you harvest), snip the buds.

Cooking with Fresh Herbs

Cooking with fresh herbs is an easy way to elevate many dishes. It’s also super rewarding to reap the benefits of your gardening skills (fork, meet mouth)! Some meals and dishes can be based entirely on an herb, or simply use it as an extra ingredient or garnish. 

Breakfast

Persian Herb Frittata by The Kitchn makes great use of fresh dill and other herbs. Just start with Smith Brothers Farms Premium Eggs.

Lunch

Pesto pasta is made with fresh basil or parsley, lemon, pine nuts, and quality olive oil and grated parmesan cheese. Our favorite ingredients for a pasta pesto include Tacoma Boys Olio Dorato Lemon Garlic Olive Oil and Delallo Organic Farfalle Pasta.

Dinner

Strip Steak with Chimichurri Sauce by Jessica Gavin with Rosemary Roasted Potatoes by Rachel Cooks. Fresh oregano, cilantro, and parsley come into play in the chimichurri while rosemary perfectly seasons Baby Red Potatoes. We like Prime Grade Top Sirloin for this meal. 

Snack

Pull-Apart Sour Cream and Chive Rolls by Bon Appetit. Cooking with fresh herbs makes these buttery tolls tasty enough to enjoy as a snack any time of the day. Bob’s Red Mill Bread Flour makes them soft and flaky.

Cocktail

Basil alongside mint or lime is one of the tastiest ways to use fresh herbs in a drink. This recipe uses fresh basil alongside cocktail basics like simple syrup and club soda. 

Basil Mojito 

Ingredients (serves 2)

• 10 fresh basil leaves
• Juice of two limes (2 ounces)
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• 4 ounces white rum
• Club soda to top
• 2 lime wedges and basil leaves to garnish

Directions

1. Lightly muddle the basil and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add the lime juice and white rum and shake with ice for 30 seconds.
3. Strain into two glasses and fill with club soda to preference.
4. Garnish with lime wedges and basil leaves and enjoy!

Get Creative In the Kitchen

Swing by your local Tacoma Boys to get prepped for those fresh and flavorful meals made with your herb garden. No matter what you have planned for the menu, fresh herbs are almost always a thoughtful addition. To stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

The last frost is melting, flowers are blooming, and it’s just about time to start eating some healthy spring snacks! Spring is a great time of the year to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy light and bright refreshments. And it’s always a good time to look forward to eating healthy. Tacoma Boys is always sure to have a variety of ingredients and seasonal foods for your favorite healthy spring snacks.

Healthy Spring Snacks

Enjoying healthy spring snacks can be as simple as pairing some of Tacoma Boys fresh local seasonal produce with another bite of protein or healthy fats. Something like Tillamook’s Smoked Black Pepper White Cheddar, Wild Friends’ Classic Creamy Peanut Butter, or a handful of Tacoma Boys’ Mixed Nuts will round out the snack. It’s a great time to get the kids involved and teach them about healthy eating. For quick packaged (but not processed) bites that the kids can grab themselves, try:

• Delreal Organic Coconut Date Rolls
• Karen’s Freeze Dried Fruit like strawberries and bananas, apples, raspberries, pomegranate, mango, and more.
• Northwest Delights Veggie Crisps
• Field Day Organic Apple Sauce 

Local Seasonal Produce

What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than by enjoying some of the Pacific Northwest’s best fresh seasonal produce? Washington has abundantly great produce all year-round. But when the sun starts shining and spring harvest rolls around, this is especially true. 

Cooking with local seasonal produce is a sustainable and helpful way to support your local economy. That’s why Tacoma Boys has all the classic seasonal produce for your healthy spring snacks! Just be sure to browse our weekly specials and stop by regularly to enjoy rotating options. And if you need a guide to the basics of eating local seasonal food, check out our blog all about the topic. 

Each spring, the Pacific Northwest and South Sound is ripe with these fruits and vegetables that are great for snacking.

Mushrooms

While mushrooms grow abundantly year-round, spring is one of the best times of the year to forage. This means it’s also a great time for mushroom farmers with the likes of cremini, baby bella, chanterelle mushrooms, and more.

Watercress

Watercress is a leafy green that is in the same family as kale and broccoli. The vegetable is often used as a garnish. But since it’s packed with all the good nutrients of a dark leafy green, it’s become even more popular as a simple salad foundation.

Apricots

The pitted fruit is not as juicy and more tart than others, making it perfect for snacking on the go. They tend to last a little while too, compared to sensitive soft fruit that’s more prone to bruising and rapid rot. 

Cherries

Cherries usually come into play for Washingtonians near the tail end of spring and beginning of summer. Rainier and Bing cherries are popular varieties that grow in Washington state. Small and sweet, cherries make for easy snacking at home.

Grapefruits 

The winter citrus fruit stays flavorful and juicy throughout the beginning of spring, too. It’s a great option as a healthy snack because all you need is a spoon and maybe a sprinkling of sweetener if you’d like.

Healthy Snack Recipes

A few of our favorite healthy snack recipes are simple to make and always tasty. Get creative or start here for some ideas for healthy snack recipes.

• Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits by A Cup Full of Sass. We like Ellenos Yogurt and the freshest local seasonal produce. Fruit & overnight oats is another great option.

• Black Bean and Corn Salad by Two Spoons. This recipe can be a snack all on its own or served as a side to sandwiches or tacos.  
• Beet and Watercress Salad by My Darling Lemon Thyme. For an extra dose of the spring season, sprinkle in some of Tacoma Boys’ Humble Honey Co. Bee Pollen!
• Homemade Trail Mix recipes by Fresh Off The Grid. This is a great way to customize your snack to exactly what you want. All you need to start is Tacoma Boys Nuts, Seeds, and Dried Fruit.
• Hummus and Raw Vegetables is a simple healthy snack recipe that’s quick to assemble together. Tacoma Boys likes Nomad Food Co. Garlic and Lemon Hummus with fresh snap peas and sliced bell pepper.

Shop For Spring Snacks

Enjoying healthy snack recipes is easy when shopping at Tacoma Boys for local spring produce. You can get all the ingredients you’ll need for a week’s worth of healthy snacking. It’s the perfect time of year to refresh your eating routine and try new fun food! To stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!