Hosting for the holidays means being prepared for your guests with drinks and food like appetizers. Small plates and snacks are easy to prepare and serve. Think chips and dip, stuffed mushrooms, garlic bread, potato skins, and more! Appetizers are convenient and popular, whether you’re planning on a larger meal later or are simply snacking all afternoon. Some people consider appetizers as only finger food, where you don’t need a knife and a fork. But there are plenty of tasty little dishes to make that can be enjoyed in different ways.

Appetizers

Small plates and snacks like appetizers are great to start out with when hosting. They’re often served in small portions loaded with hearty flavor. It’s a way to welcome your guests and have a little bite to eat while chatting, when dinner isn’t quite ready. While just about any food can be made into an appetizer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Finger foods are often best when appetizers are served away from the table. That means bite-sized foods, dips, and anything without a knife and fork. 

Here at Tacoma Boys, charcuterie boards are easy to shop for and a favorite as an appetizer! They’re a popular snack because they’re customizable and quick to put together. At Tacoma Boys, you’ll find a wide selection of specialty cheeses and cured meats as well as nuts, jams, crackers, fruit, and more. Build your charcuterie to fit the preferences of your guest and set it out as a grazing board. Your guests can snack on it casually as a group, or you can use little plates to serve the spread.

Dip Recipes for Groups

Dip recipes are easy to enjoy when hosting or in groups. Full of flavor and just filling enough, cold or hot dips are usually quick to make and serve. Picture raw veggies with blue cheese dressing or spinach artichoke dip with tortilla chips. These types of dip recipes are usually first to go at parties and get-togethers! If you’re looking for some dip recipes to make for the holidays, consider one of these suggestions:

• Tacoma Boys’ Buffalo Chicken Dip: It’s not too late to serve this one in a pumpkin! You’ll find several different types of buffalo sauce at Tacoma Boys. Plus about 5 other ingredients, this dip is quick and easy to cook up for a hungry crowd.
• Tacoma Boys’ Irish Beer Cheese Dip: You’ll need some dark beer and a couple different kinds of cheese for this rich recipe. It’s full of flavor and goes great with fresh cut veggies and pretzels, like Dutch Country Gluten Free Soft Pretzels.
• Spinach Artichoke Dip by Natasha’s Kitchen: Try this savory, cheesy dip with Cara Mia Marinated Artichoke Hearts and serve it with Stacy’s Pita Chips. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the extra vegetables snuck in!
• White Cheddar Cranberry Dip by Little Broken: This 4 ingredient dip is a tasty twist on a classic cheese dip. Try it with Tillamook White Cheddar Cheese, Organic Valley Cream Cheese, fresh cranberries, and a Homemade Cranberry Sauce.
• 7 Layer Dip: The popular layered dip is so easy to make with a variety of ingredients of your choosing! It requires very little, if any cooking. For an example, try the dip with layers of Amy’s Organic Vegetarian Refried Beans, Smith Brothers Farm Sour Cream, fresh guacamole, Tacoma Boys Loco Cheese Dip, diced fresh tomatoes, Mrs. Renfro’s Jalapeno Peppers, and your favorite Tacoma Boys Salsa. Then dig in with Tacoma Boys Tortilla Chips!

Holiday Appetizers

Some people get real creative with holiday appetizers! You can make a variety of dishes with Thanksgiving or Christmas themes and seasonal ingredients. For example, snacks made with cranberries, turkey, and stuffing for Thanksgiving. Cranberry and brie puff pastry bites are another example of an appetizer that is so popular for the holidays! Make whatever dishes you want into holiday appetizers by just scaling down a bit: Mini quiche, bite-size meatballs, and just about any food on a mini skewer.

It can also be a good idea to ask your guests to bring appetizers if you’d like. Cooking an entire meal including appetizers and dessert can be a lot to do! And while you’re planning your holiday appetizers and meals, make sure to account for different diets. If you’re expecting guests that are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten free, it’s easy to prepare those dishes. 

Prepare For The Holiday With Tacoma Boys 

Get ready for holiday celebrations and meals with Tacoma Boys! Your local market is stocked with a variety of seasonal produce, meat, and specialty food products. 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!

How to Pair Specialty Cheese

Tacoma Boys’ selection of specialty cheese is not to be missed. If you generally stick to just one or two types of cheeses, we recommend branching out to try even more! Cheese can be produced in a variety of textures and flavors. Specialty cheese is often flavored with add-ins like herbs, spices, vegetables, and even wine. There are so many different kinds of cheeses to try that are best with other foods or for certain occasions. Charcuterie boards are often recommended as a great way to enjoy different cheeses with a group. For a guide on how to build the perfect charcuterie board, check out our blog all about it here.

Specialty Cheese

It’s easy to pair specialty cheese with just about any type of food you’d like for a satisfying snack or meal. Specialty and artisan cheeses are often produced in small batches or with seasonal ingredients. That’s what makes them so fun to enjoy and pair with other cheeses and foods. Pairing cheese with complementary and contrasting flavors and textures is a way to fully appreciate different cheeses: Whether it be wine, cured meats, fresh fruit, pickled vegetables, or assorted spreads. That’s why charcuterie boards are so popular and easy to put together!

Different Types of Cheeses

From the softest goat cheese to the most robust smoked cheddar, specialty cheese can vary widely. Soft, spreadable cheese like fresh goat cheese or port wine cheese are smooth and easy for snacking. This also includes creamy brie cheese, which is subtle in flavor. Semi-hard cheese includes classic cheddar cheese or gouda, which is versatile in cooking and tastes sharp. Hard cheeses, like romano, parmesan, or asiago, are even stronger and best in small amounts or as a finisher to dishes.

Dairy Free “Cheese”

In addition to cheese made with milk from cows, goats, sheep, and more, Tacoma Boys offers an assortment of dairy free cheese. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or otherwise dairy-free, there are several options to explore. You can find dairy free “cheese” for any recipe or occasion at Tacoma Boys, including:

• Moocho Fiesta Blend
• Daiya Cheddar & Mozza Style Blend
• Follow Your Heart Feta Crumbles 
• Miyoko Creamery Farmhouse Cheddar 
• Plant Perks Sriracha Cheddar Plant-Based Cheese Spread

Cheese Pairing

Cheese pairing is fun to enjoy when you keep just a few tenants in mind. Pairing cheese is about highlighting the best bold flavors of your cheese with other foods to contrast or compliment. When it comes to cheese pairing, notice the strengths and flavors of your cheese and work from there. That means delicate, soft cheese with subtle pairings like fresh fruit. Or, sharp aged gouda with boldly seasoned meat or spicy crackers. Learn more about how and what to pair with cheese with the Beginner’s Guide to Cheese Pairing. Then, get started with of few of these cheese pairings using Tacoma Boys’ specialty cheeses:

• Ile de France Brie Bites alongside sliced apples and Blue Diamond Artisan Nut Thins.
• Carr Valley Goat Bread Cheese browned in the oven and served with crusty sourdough bread and sweet fruit spread.
• Snowdonia Cheese Company Cheddar with Roasted Garlic & Herb served charcuterie-style with Elevation Black Pepper Salami and pickled vegetables. 
• Mifroma Emmentaler Hard Swiss Cheese melted between two slices of bread for a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich.
• Maple Leaf Pepper Jack Cheese shredded on a flatbread and topped with bell peppers and onions, then broiled.
• Singletons & Co. Port Wine Cheddar or Kaukauna Sharp Cheddar Cheese Ball simply with your favorite crackers.

Pacific Northwest Local Cheese

While regions like Wisconsin are known specifically for their cheese-making, the Pacific Northwest is rich with local cheese. Farmsteads and cheese makers throughout Washington and Oregon produce an assortment of different cheeses: Think sharp cheddar, spicy jack, and bold blue cheese. To elevate your next meal with a little something cheesy, stop by Tacoma Boys for local cheese such as these:

• Rogue Creamery: Mountain Blue Cheese (Grants Pass, Oregon)
• Ferndale Farmstead: Scamorza Cheese (Bellingham, Washington)
• Beecher’s Handmade Cheese: Flagship Cheddar (Seattle, Washington)
• Tillamook: Spicy Habanero Jack (Tillamook, Oregon)
• Face Rock Creamery: Peppercorn Harvest Cheddar (Bandon, Oregon)
• Cougar Gold: Sharp White Cheddar (Pullman, Washington)

While eating local usually refers to fruits and vegetables, it’s important to support farmers and local cheese producers throughout our communities. It’s a great way to sustain your local economy and enjoy delicious fresh food. And here in Washington, there are a growing abundance of local farmers to support. To learn more about the more than 50 cheesemakers of the Pacific Northwest, check out the Washington State Cheesemakers Association. 

Specialty Cheese at Tacoma Boys

No matter what type of cheese is your favorite, Tacoma Boys has plenty to choose from. From dairy-free, to local, to internationally-produced cheese, there is an option for everyone to love. And who doesn’t love cheese?!

Next time you’re planning a charcuterie or building a mega-grilled cheese sandwich, come on by Tacoma Boys. You’ll find a variety of specialty cheeses and all the tasty foods for your cheese pairings! And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, never 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!

Is it time for the 2021 Super Bowl already?! The day is coming up quick which means it’s time to come up with your Super Bowl appetizers menu. Nothing screams “Super Bowl” more than a table full of classic Super Bowl appetizers that keep everyone coming back for more. Although there may be no large gatherings this year, hosting for your household can still be a fun time. There’s no better way to get geared up for the big game than to plan out this year’s menu.

Super Bowl Appetizers

What is it about appetizers that make them a great fit for football games? Whether it’s the variety or convenience of small bites, our favorite Super Bowl appetizers are lined up and ready to share! Whip up your favorite Super Bowl appetizers with fresh, specialty ingredients found at your local Tacoma Boys.

Chips & Dip

• Tacoma Boys Tortilla Chips
• Classic potato chips

Pair with:

• Tacoma Boys’ very own jarred salsas – available in a variety of flavors.
• Homemade spinach & artichoke dip made with Fresh Express Organic Baby Spinach found in the produce section. This spinach and artichoke dip by Cooking Classy is a great option.
• Easy ranch dip made with fresh herbs, spices, and Smith Brothers sour cream found in the dairy section.

Sliders

• Roast beef sliders made with medium rare roast beef found in the Tacoma Boys deli section paired with classic King’s Hawaiian rolls. This recipe for french dip sliders by Delish is sure to hit the spot!
• Ham & cheese sliders made with ham from the deli and Hoffman’s Vermont White Cheddar Cheese for the ultimate cheese pull. This recipe is a great guideline to follow for ham and cheese sliders.

Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers may be one of the most popular game day appetizers out there, and it’s easy to understand why! If you’re a fan of spicy and savory small bites, jalapeño poppers are the perfect choice for you. Select a large handful of fresh jalapeños from the produce section followed by your go-to cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Simply mix the cream cheese and cheddar, then stuff the halved jalapeño peppers and bake. If you want to take your jalapeño popper game up a notch, wrap them in Tacoma Boys’ applewood smoked thick-cut bacon – you won’t regret it. Savory Tooth has a great recipe for bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers here. 

Potato Skins

What is it about potato skins that make them so addicting?! Potatoes are great all around, but potato skins are next-level. Plus they’re incredibly easy to make which is an added bonus. Instead of whipping up traditional loaded potato skins, try making Real House Mom’s bbq chicken potato skins for this year’s game. We recommend grabbing a few of Tacoma Boys’ baker potatoes to ensure the crispiest skin for the best crunch! 

Pigs in a Blanket

Okay, there is no denying that pigs in a blanket are a game day must. They’re a hit with both adults and kids and are the perfect bite. If you’re looking to make your pigs in a blanket a bit fancier this year, substitute classic hot dogs for a pack of Snake River Farms American Wagyu Beef Gourmet Frankfurters. Slice those up and roll them in French Butter Puff Pastry found in the freezer section at your local Tacoma Boys. 

Ready-To-Go Game Day Food

If making appetizers from scratch isn’t your favorite activity, don’t fret! Tacoma Boys carries a variety of pre-made food that is perfect for game day. 

• Fiorucci Panino Antipasti Hard Salami & Pepper Jack Rolls or Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella Cheese
• Boar’s Head pre-made hummus available in a variety of flavors such as: fiery chipotle, everything bagel, and roasted red pepper
• Tacoma Boys pre-made scalloped potato salad
• Sea Best Cocktail Shrimp
• Big Shoulders Smokehouse Boneless Pork Ribs – fully cooked
• Big Shoulders Smokehouse Pulled Pork in BBQ Sauce – fully cooked
• Ready-to-bake pre-made pizzas – win!

Football Food Made Easy

Whether you prefer to buy specialty pre-made foods or cook everything up from scratch, Tacoma Boys has you covered for this year’s football food lineup. Pop on into your local Tacoma Boys to take a look around to find everything you’ll need for your Super Bowl menu. If you have any trouble finding certain products, ask one of our workers for guidance and they’ll make sure you get what you’re looking for!

P.S. Don’t forget the beer!

There are twelve basic varieties of meat, and hundreds of various qualities and cuts.  From flank steak to deli-sliced ham, there are a ton of options for the most adventurous party platter ideas.  And there are benefits to each!

For example, sliced deli meat is more than just a tasty snack.  It can reduce your appetite, increase your metabolism, and build stronger bones and muscles.

Tasty, flavorful cheese is a great source of calcium, fat, and protein.

A savory meat and cheese platter is more than just a fantastic party appetizer. It is a great way to feed friends’ appetites for healthy, fun snacks.

Here are some of our favorite party platter ideas.

1. Meat And Cheese Platter

You can’t go wrong with a classic meat and cheese platter. Think rolled cuts of thinly sliced imported prosciutto, or various cuts of hard salami.  We have a ton of these varieties at all 3 of our locations!

Aim for a variety of hard and soft cheeses to create a collage of tastes, textures, and colors.

Consider soft brie or camembert as a centerpiece. Other awesome soft cheeses include burrata or fresh mozzarella. Cheddar, parmigiana, or pepper jack look interesting and are delicious hard options.

And lastly, adding a little fruit like grapes, apple slices, dried apricots or strawberries can punch up your platter with color, flavor and sophistication.

2. Melon and Prosciutto Platter

Another classic at parties is melon!  Melon adds brightness and juiciness to your plate. You can top with some fresh herbs or tiny banquettes for some variety. Prosciutto is a fantastic pairing for the sweetness of melon and the saltiness of the meat.  Or for vegetarians (or not!) pair with fresh berries for a balance of sweet and tartness.  For even more textures and sweetness, try adding some watermelon, honeydew, or cantaloupe.

Burrata and mozzarella are great cheeses that bring out the light party flavor.  And don’t forget the toothpicks to make grabbing your favorite pairing even easier!

3. Greek Appetizer Plate

An example of a Greek appetizer plate uses nuts, soft-boiled eggs, and feta cheese to add some savory variety. And don’t forget the grape leaves and olive oil for real Mediterranean flare!

We also like freshly made hummus and our fresh olive varieties, which you can find near the cheese at all 3 of our locations.

4. Vegan or Gluten Free Platter

No animal-based foods? No problem! A Vegan platter can serve your friends with nearly any dietary needs in style.

Try Vegan breadsticks combined with dips like olive tapenade or artichoke hummus. Vegan and cauliflower cracker varieties are available at all 3 of our stores, including gluten free and vegan options.  Veggies like cauliflower, carrots and broccoli are always great options, especially when they are fresh from Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce!

5. Healthy Platter

Your friends may be meat-eaters, but they may still be health-conscious and be watching their calories. Try using lean turkey, whole wheat crackers, and almonds to keep your guests’ guts and hearts happy.  And you can never go wrong with fresh greens like snap peas or broccoli.

And don’t forget healthy berries and grapes to add beautiful color, as well as a few vitamins!

6. Kid-Friendly Meat and Cheese Platter

Got teeny party people in the house? No problem!

Make a kid-friendly platter by cutting up milder cheeses like cheddar and Swiss. Your meats can be more kid-friendly and rolled up for easy munching. Think deli ham, turkey, and chicken skewers.  Kids also love to pair items like cornichhons rolled into little logs with cream cheese and turkey.  (Adults will want some as well)

Veggies like baby carrots and grape tomatoes are colorful kid favorites. Don’t forget some pretzels or pita chips for a little salty flavor and the ranch dressing for dipping!

7. A Dessert Platter

For a twist or follow up to a great meat and cheese party platter ideas, a great platter can also be the perfect finger food when it’s dessert time. Sliced fruit and dark chocolate work great with chocolate or cream cheese-based dips. You may even want to add some banana or zucchini bread for your health-conscious guests, and some warm dipping chocolate is always fun with fresh fruit like strawberries!

The Best Party Platter Ideas

The best party platter ideas are themed, colorful and flavorful. Your guests will be raving about them and loving your soiree in no time!

For more great party advice, check out our blog today.

As we fall deeper into the season, Thanksgiving is just two and a half weeks away! With that, we want to give our thanks and share some one-of-a-kind suggestions to make this Thanksgiving an unforgettable gathering. Tacoma Boys is grateful to all of our customers. Thank you for visiting our stores and getting top quality cuts, ingredients, beverages, and snacks for all of your experiences. We wish you another wonderful holiday season here in the PNW!
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Summer time is the time for picnics, dinner guests, meals on the back deck, and get togethers of every kind. So be prepared for those events with these smart pre-meal pairings for your upcoming events.
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