It can be a common misconception that dairy products are bad for you – but when it comes to fresh and local dairy, these products pack a punch when we’re talking about nutrients. From bone health to immune health, fresh and local dairy contains various vitamins and minerals that aid in overall good health. There are countless ways to incorporate some of Tacoma Boys’ favorite fresh and local dairy products into yours and your family’s lifestyle. 

The Benefits of Fresh and Local Dairy

Including fresh and local dairy products on your shopping list is a great way to add a good source of calcium and protein to daily meals. Local and organic dairy has proven to be more nutritious than traditional dairy products sold on the market. Choosing to buy local and organic dairy is a healthier option so you’re able to avoid any unwanted chemicals, added hormones, or unnecessary pesticides.

It’s important to note that dairy may not be for everyone. If you or someone you know has an allergy or an intolerance to dairy, Tacoma Boys carries a great selection of non-dairy milks and creamers that are bound to give you the same satisfaction! This is a great alternative for dairy-lovers who are unable to consume dairy because they are unable to digest the lactose found in dairy products. These non-dairy products also work great for those who choose not to include dairy in their diets due to other external factors. 

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Local Dairy Products

Smith Brothers Farms

Smith Brothers Farms has been around since 1920 and has provided 100 years of fresh and local dairy to the Pacific Northwest. They are family owned and operated and provide truly some of the best dairy products around. 

Our Favorite Smith Brothers Products

• Organic Whole & 2% Milk
• Chocolate Reduced Fat Milk – yum
• Half & Half
• Heavy Whipping Cream
• Eggnog
• Cultured Buttermilk
• Cottage Cheese
• Sour Cream

Grace Harbor Farms

Grace Harbor Farms is another family owned and operated farm since 1999. All of the products are made without gums and artificial flavors, and come from organic-style farming where the animals have pasture access. This allows for healthier animals resulting in healthier dairy products!

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Grace Harbor Farms Products

• Plain Kefir
• Vanilla Kefir

Kefir is a fermented drink that contains high levels of probiotics. These probiotics are beneficial to gut health which in return helps with a healthy immune system. Kefir contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antibacterial properties. Additionally, as with many dairy products, kefir can aid in overall bone health, making it a great product for kids as they grow!

Cooking With Dairy

Consuming a meal with nutrient-dense local dairy is a great way to start your day! From homemade pancakes to overnight oats followed by a soup lunch and pasta dinner, dairy is here and ready for it all!

Breakfast

• Customizable Overnight Oats by If You Give a Blonde a Kitchen
• Soft & Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes by Recipesby Carina 
• Caramelized Onion Frittata by The Modern Proper

Lunch & Dinner

• Creamy Potato Soup by Spend With Pennies
• Lemon Chicken Scallopini by Cafe Delites
• Creamy Vodka Tomato Sauce Pasta by Julia’s Album

Dessert – Because we all need a treat sometimes!

• The Best Homemade Whipped Cream by Joy Food Sunshine
• Death by Chocolate Ice Cream by Delish
• Homemade Cheesecake with SourCream Topping by Classy Clutter

Tacoma Boys’ Iced Vanilla Mocha

Ingredients

• 2 shots espresso – cooled
• 6 oz Smith Brothers Chocolate Milk
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Ice
• Homemade whipped cream – optional

Directions

1. Fill your serving glass up with ice.
2. In a separate cup, quickly whisk together the chocolate milk and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the cooled espresso into your serving glass over ice, and follow with the chocolate milk mixture.
4. Give it a good stir and garnish with whipped cream if desired.

Tacoma Boys’ Blueberry Kefir Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 cup wild frozen blueberries
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 banana
• 1/2 cup plain or vanilla kefir
• 1/4 cup pure pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup water or coconut water

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients into a high speed blender.
2. Blend until completely smooth.
3. Serve & enjoy!

Swing On In!

Swing by your local Tacoma Boys to check out the dairy selection to whip up one of these delicious meals or treats. If you have any questions, please reach out to one of our helpers and we will guide you in the right direction!

Contrary to popular belief, affordable healthy eating is 100% possible. There’s a common misconception about how costly it can be to eat healthy. Fortunately, affordable healthy eating is obtainable no matter the number in your bank account – that’s a WIN. There are a lot of healthy food products on the market that can cost quite a bit more, however, that does not mean you need those products in your pantry in order to eat an abundance of whole foods. The Tacoma Boys guide to affordable healthy eating is here to show that healthy eating is within reach no matter the circumstance!

Affordable Healthy Eating is Accessible

“So you’re telling me affordable healthy eating is within my reach?!” – The answer is yes! Consuming an abundance of whole foods is a crucial part of anyone’s diet. What you put into your body plays an important role in your immune system, energy levels, sleeping patterns, and more. Making your health a priority in regards to food may require planning, but it can be life changing! It’s important to do your own research and avoid possible rumors that may not be true – in this case, affordable healthy eating.

Where Do I Start?

Plan Ahead

Without a doubt, planning saves money. When you plan your meals out for the week and write out the ingredients needed at the store, you’re less likely to purchase goods that you don’t need and may go to waste. Try sitting down and planning out your next week’s meals and creating a detailed grocery list. This is an easy method to set yourself up for success. Afterall, during unprecedented times, planning ahead for the unexpected is crucial!

Produce, Produce, Produce!

There’s no denying that produce should be at the heart of every grocery trip! Tacoma Boys carries a wide variety of fresh local produce that works well for any budget.

Snacks

• Local apples
• Pears
• Bananas
• Oranges
• Carrots
• Bell peppers
• Cucumber

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

• Mixed leafy greens
• Spinach
• Green beans
• Seasonal squash
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Onions
• Potatoes
• Garlic

Tacoma Boys Tip: Try freezing your own produce if it’s about to spoil and use it in smoothies and soups later on!

Shop Pantry Staple Foods

Having pantry staple foods on hand is an affordable way to make food last a long while. There are many healthy pantry staple foods you can stock up on to last – some may even cost less than $1 per serving – yes please!

• Bob’s Red Mills Steel Cut Oats
• Timeless French Green Lentils
• Lundberg Black Japonica Rice
• Jovial Foods Brown Rice Pasta
• Remlinger Farms Frozen Fruit
• Pacific Foods Broths & Stocks

Eggs

This popular ingredient deserves its own category because of its versatility. Depending on the type of eggs you buy, a serving of 2 eggs can cost as low as 0.83 cents. Serve alongside some spinach, onion, bell pepper, and you have yourself a hearty breakfast scramble for under $3. Tacoma Boys has a great selection of high quality eggs such as Vital Farms and Stiebrs Farms Organic Free Range Eggs that work great for any meal of the day!

Affordable Healthy Recipes Made Easy

When planning your meals ahead of time, look for recipes that use minimal ingredients that fit within your budget. Budget Bytes provides high quality recipes with budget and ingredients laid out clearly. This is a great tool to use when budgeting your weekly groceries. You may also want to think about using discount codes from Raise (see here – https://www.raise.com/coupons/target) to help you make savings when shopping for groceries at places like Target or you can use them to get reductions on lots of other items from your favorite brands and stores. This way, you can really stretch your budget a lot further!

• Baked Banana Bread Oatmeal – $3.24 RECIPE / $0.54 SERVING
• Cajun Sausage & Rice Skillet – $7.21 RECIPE / $1.80 SERVING
• Mediterranean White Bean Salad – $4.87 RECIPE / $1.22 SERVING
• Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli – $5.48 RECIPE / $1.37 SERVING
• Quick Tofu Stir Fry – $3.82 RECIPE / $0.96 SERVING

Grocery Shopping on a Budget with Tacoma Boys

This guide is a friendly reminder that your local Tacoma Boys is here to help assist you with any of your grocery needs. Although Tacoma Boys does carry a variety specialty food items, the budget-friendly options are bountiful throughout each store. When swinging by a Tacoma Boys near you, keep in mind produce, pantry staples, and products like eggs for cost efficient grocery shopping. (And don’t forget to plan ahead!) For more tips and tricks on saving money at your local Tacoma Boys, check out the following resources:

• Weekly Specials
• How to Save Money at a Produce Stand Near Me

We find ourselves in limbo between two major feasting holidays. Maybe there are even some dishes still soaking in the sink after the Thanksgiving day feast. We aren’t here to pass judgement on the state of your kitchen. In fact, we’re here to give you a reprieve from all of your hard work. Nourishing meals don’t always require multiple dishes and these sheet pan dinners make dinner clean up a cinch. Try these three sheet pan dinners to help you avoid dishes this week.

Pesto Baked Salmon & Roasted Root Vegetables

What’s so great about this recipe, besides the easy clean up, is that it is versatile and uses produce that keeps well in the fridge, so you are likely to have these vegetables on hand. Substitute steelhead for salmon, use parsnips instead of carrots, or wedges of cabbage instead of brussel sprouts. Don’t feel like making pesto? Grab fresh pesto, when you stop in our market for fresh salmon. Find your favorite combos and use what you have on hand. Check out our guide to nutritious, seasonal eating for inspiration.

Ingredients:

12 baby potatoes, or potato of choice chopped in 1 in. chunks

1 medium sweet potato, diced

2 carrots, chopped into half inch sections

4 small beets, halved

12 brussel sprouts halved

2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 portions of fresh Sockeye Salmon fillets 

1/4 cup Asiago or Manchego cheese

Fresh lemon juice

Pesto:

1 cup basil or sage

1 cup kale, stalks removed

1/3 cup pistachios or walnuts

1/3 cup parmesan cheese

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Crushed red pepper flakes

Sea salt

Preheat oven to 425°F

 

On a parchment lined, rimmed baking sheet, drizzle and toss the potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots beets and brussel sprouts with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and roast for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are fork tender.

 

Make the pesto, while the vegetables roast. In a food processor, pulse the first three pesto ingredients until finely chopped. Add the parmesan cheese and pulse again. Drizzle the olive oil into the mix with the motor running. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (depending on your desired level of heat).

 

When veggies are just fork tender, pull them from the oven and push them to one side of the pan to make room for the salmon. Place salmon on the the baking sheet and rub pesto on each fillet.

 

Place the sheet pan back in the oven and roast for another 10 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is flakey and to your desired doneness and the vegetables are soft. Remove pan from the oven and grate fresh Asiago or Parmesan over each fillet. Serve with any remaining pesto on the side.

Parmesan Chicken with
Roast Asparagus & Potatoes

This is another versatile recipe. You can substitute root vegetables for either the asparagus or the potatoes. For a larger group, double the recipe and use two sheet pans. You’ll still be left with very minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts

2 eggs

1/4 cup milk

2 cups bread crumbs, preferably panko

2 cups shredded parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon Tacoma Boys Italian Seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 pound yukon gold potatoes, quartered

1 bunch of asparagus, fibrous ends removed, cut into 3in sections

Sea salt and fresh ground pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat oven to 425°F

 

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or coat with olive oil.

 

In a medium bowl, whisk together egg and milk. In a separate, medium bowl, mix together panko, parmesan cheese, italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

Salt and pepper both sides of chicken breasts and dredge them in egg mixture then coat them in the panko mixture and place on your sheet pan.

 

Place potatoes next to chicken on the pan and drizzle with a little bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

 

Bake for 15 minutes, flip chicken over. Add trimmed asparagus to the sheet pan, drizzling with olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper. Return to the oven and continue baking for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken is 165°F.

Fresh Gnocchi & Roasted Vegetables

Roasting the fresh gnocchi in this recipe will give it a slightly different texture than the boiled variety, but we think you’ll enjoy the change. After you try it this way, you may never boil gnocchi again. The slight crunch of the exterior and tender interior is reminiscent of roasted potatoes. Roasted tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil create a simple, but flavorful sauce for plump gnocchi. 

Ingredients

1 pound gnocchi, shelf stable or frozen

2 medium bell peppers, cut into 1” pieces

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1 red onion, cut into 1” pieces

4 cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed

1 teaspoon chopped rosemary leaves

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

2 tablespoons roughly chopped basil leaves

Grated Parmesan

Preheat oven to 450°F

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or coat with olive oil.

 

Place garlic, onion, tomatoes, bell peppers, gnocchi, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to evenly coat with oil. Spread the gnocchi mixture evenly on the parchment covered baking sheet.

 

Roast for 18-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Vegetables should be tender and the gnocchi should be plump. 

 

Spoon pasta mixture into individual bowls and top with fresh basil and grated parmesan.

Create Your Own Sheet Pan Dinners

We hope these recipes nourish you and inspire you to mix up some of your own sheet pan dinners. Ask your Tacoma Boys butchers for good meats to roast with seasonal veggies. Peruse our extensive selection of Tacoma Boys seasonings, sprinkle your favorite spice mix over seasonal vegetables, roast and serve over rice. Meals made with fresh, local ingredients don’t need to be complicated to be delicious.

With the time you save in clean up, you’ll have plenty of time to add some holiday decorations around the house or decorate the tree. SHOP EARLY THIS SEASON – TREES ARE SELLING FAST!

Have you been wondering what the holiday season will be like this year? Everyone has, which is why Tacoma Boys has created this guide to host the ultimate holiday bake off with family and friends – virtually, of course! Since you may not be able to connect in-person with some of your loved ones this year, Tacoma Boys thought a holiday bake off would be a great way to get into the holiday spirit while staying safe and healthy. Whether you choose to host your holiday bakeoff with just your small family at home or extend the invitation for others to join virtually, it’s sure to be a great time complete with delicious holiday treats!

How to Prepare for Your Virtual Holiday Bake Off

If you were to host a holiday bake off during non-pandemic times, you would typically have the people involved come to your home to participate. Since it’s our duty to stay home, creating a virtual version is the best (and kind of fun!) way to host a bake off. 

1. Send Out Online Invitations

Creating invitations online doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Simply decide on a date and time that works best for yourself and others involved and click send to get the info out! 

2. Decide What to Bake

Deciding on recipes for the holiday bake off may be the most difficult part of throwing this bake off together – there are so many good choices out there! Tacoma Boys suggests picking three different recipes for your participants to follow. This way everyone is making the exact same recipe and can enjoy them together at the end. If you’re not keen on baking, you can opt to host a charcuterie board competition or a virtual brunch-off! 

3. Set a Timer

Setting a timer may not be necessary, but it adds to the “bake off” aspect of the day! Just ensure it’s enough time to actually finish the recipes.

4. Pick a Winner, Together

Instead of having a taste test – because that’s not possible virtually – have everyone present their final products with a little background story! This can be a true story or completely made up, and adds a fun, unique component to the bake off.

Holiday Baking Essentials

Holiday baking has always been a great way to bring families together during the holidays, so don’t let hosting a bake off be stressful. Choose recipes that everyone will love and are moderately easy – after all, the bake off is supposed to be fun! Tacoma Boys has a large selection of baking essentials that will set you up for a successful bake off experience. 

Flour

When you head over to the baking section at Tacoma Boys, you’ll find the biggest selection of flours! From gluten free varieties to organic unbleached all-purpose, you are sure to find everything you’ll need for this bake off. The widest selection comes from the popular brand, Bob’s Red Mills, providing you with high quality ingredients no matter the recipe.

Sugar

Sugar is a crucial component of baking which means it’s smart to have a variety on hand! A couple favorite brands at Tacoma Boys are Wholesome and Woodstock – both are high quality sugars and offer brown sugar, white sugar, powdered sugar, coconut sugar, and more! If you’re looking to host a bake off on the lighter side, opt for Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener as a sugar-free alternative.

Chocolate

Every bake off needs chocolate chips. Afterall, it wouldn’t be right to host a bake off without chocolate! Choose from a wide range of chocolate chips to finish off all of your baking needs. Whether you’re looking for white, dark, or milk chocolate, Tacoma Boys carries classic brands such as Ghirardelli and Enjoy Life, as well as quality sugar-free options like Lily’s! 

Choose Your Christmas Treats

After you send out invitations, it’s time to decide what Christmas treats to make for the bake off! It’s important to plan this step ahead of time so you’re able to send out an ingredient list to all of the contestants. From cookies to Christmas candy, there are many great options that will make this bake off one-of-a-kind!

Recipe Options

• Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies from Baker By Nature

This recipe is a great way to take classic chocolate chip cookies up a notch. Head over to the baking section at Tacoma Boys and pick out your flour, sugar, and chocolate chips. After you have the baking essentials, pick up a container of Northwest Delights pecans to ensure a satisfying crunch to this cookie.

• Cranberry Orange Swirl Cookies from Beyond the Kitchen Coop

A cookie recipe with holiday’s favorite side: cranberry sauce – yes, please! Stock up on some Green Valley Lactose Free Butter, Vital Farms Eggs, tree ripened organic grown oranges, and Ocean Spray Organic Cranberries to make this recipe top notch.

• Peanut Butter Mallow Bars from Melissa’s Southern Style Kitchen 

Everyone loves a great peanut butter option, and this recipe will satisfy any sweet tooth. Choose your favorite peanut butter from Tacoma Boy’s nut butter section and grab a bag of Dandies Marshmallows for the ultimate peanut butter bars! 

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

Always remember these types of events are supposed to be fun! Swing by your local Tacoma Boys to grab all of  the ingredients on your baking list for a fun-filled baking day! If you’re feeling extra jolly, you can pick up your Christmas tree the same day. SHOP EARLY THIS SEASON – TREES ARE SELLING FAST! You can check out Tacoma Boys’ Christmas Trees here! 

There’s nothing better than a warming home-cooked meal enjoyed with family.

If you’re in a rut with your recipes and you need some inspiration for the next family dinner, we’re here to help. From scrummy pasta to warming soup, we’ve got you covered.

Here are some delicious home & family recipes that you can make using fresh ingredients from Tacoma Boys.

Baked Chicken With Spinach Stuffing

This baked chicken with spinach stuffing recipe won the grand prize at the 2006 Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest, so you know the whole family will love it.

While the dish includes healthy ingredients like spinach, there are a few unconventional ingredients included that give it its kick. These include maple-flavored syrup, peach preserves, and Worcestershire sauce.

When you take a bite, you’ll soon be reminded that an old-fashioned chicken dish is still a winner for dinner.

View recipe

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This easy to make creamy tomato basil soup is one of our favorite healthy family dinners. Rich, creamy, and delicious, this homemade tomato soup is so much more flavorsome than your average soup from a tin.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a yummy dinner that the kids will love in just under 30 minutes.

Make it in bulk so you can throw it in your freezer for a rainy day. After all, we know it’s difficult to find the time to cook fresh meals from scratch every day, especially if you have kids to entertain.

View recipe

Twice-Baked Potatoes

If you’re looking for healthy dinner ideas for kids, you can’t go wrong with comforting twice-baked potatoes. They’re super easy to make and go great served with vegetables and soup.

Top them with creamy mashed potatoes, sour cream, cheese, green onions, and any other topping you like. To make them healthier, we suggest using beans as one of the toppings.

For an extra treat and to take the taste to the next level, include crispy, crumbled bacon too. While they take a little extra work to create, trust us, it’s worth it.

View recipe

Scarpetta’s Spaghetti With Fresh Tomato Sauce and Garlic Basil Oil

When it comes to a family dinner, you can’t go wrong with classic spaghetti tossed in tomato sauce.

At NYC’s famous Scarpetta restaurant, this tasty spaghetti dish is served over 100 times a day and it’s sure to go down a treat with the whole family.

This recipe uses fresh and ripe tomatoes, high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and a handful of fresh basil leaves to make it extra yummy. Why not see if you can replicate the original dish?

View recipe

Delicious Home & Family Recipes to Cook

These home & family recipes are not only delicious but are packed full of healthy and fresh ingredients.

Ready to shop for some high-quality and delicious produce to create yummy family meals?

Here at Tacoma Boys, we’re open 24/7 with plenty of fresh and delicious food ready to buy in-store. Shop with us and you’ll find everything you need to create warming family home recipes —frozen chicken breast is just $10 for a 5lb bag.

Check out our weekly specials and offers here.

According to recent data, 3.1 million people across the US follow a gluten-free diet.

Gluten-free eating is a great way reduce processed wheat products and to encourage kids to eat lots of fruits and veggies.

You may be wondering how you can get your kids to consider some gluten free options and how to add a gluten-free diet to your family’s meal planning each week without complaint.

Here are some awesome kid-friendly gluten-free recipes you’ve got to try!

1. Broccoli-Crust Pizza

Gluten-free broccoli-crust pizza is a win-win for kids and parents. You can quickly purchase cauliflower crusts in our frozen gluten free case, but this at home recipe is well worth a try!  Youngsters will love the cheesy texture, marinara sauce, and even the broccoli.

Parents will love the fact that their kids are actually eating broccoli, which is a great source of vitamins K and C. It protects kids’ immune systems and helps build strong, healthy bones.

Your kids will be more likely to eat green, leafy veggies in the future if they start to enjoy them now. And they can be delicious if prepared well!  It will help keep their teeth and bones strong throughout adulthood.

The kids will love spreading the sauce and sprinkling the cheese… and cooking together will make your kids more eager to snack on their creation.

2. Ranch Chicken Tacos

Ranch chicken tacos are super-easy to prepare with a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, some wax paper, and a warmed skillet pan.  And gluten free tortillas are as easy as choosing corn! Chicken is an excellent lean source of protein for kids, keeping their energy up without packing on the carbs. It is also a great source of selenium, phosphorous, and vitamin B6.

The recipe also includes superfoods like olives, tomatoes, and avocados. It is a super way to introduce your littles to avocado, which has lots of good fats and vitamins like C, E, and K.

Olives are packed with antioxidants and excellent for heart health. And tomatoes are packed with vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Kids will learn to love their taste with a little savory ranch to sweeten the deal.

3. Berry Slush

Nothing gets kids more excited about summer than an icy treat. Get them in the kitchen to help create a Gluten Free Dairy Free Banana Berry Fruity Slush.

Berries are loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients like Vitamin C. Bananas are a great way to replace the creaminess of dairy and boost kids’ moods. They are also an excellent source of potassium.

Get kids in the kitchen to mix the ingredients before you blend for some extra bonding time.  They will love the fun color of this berry slush.  And kids love straws… so don’t forget to grab colorful, reusable straws to boot!

4. Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Nothing says just-got-home-from-school like a batch of freshly-baked, yummy chocolate chip cookies. This recipe uses almond flour to keep cookies fresh and delicious, or use one of our other nut free and gluten free flours for kids who have sensitivity to nuts.

Milk is gluten-free and a great source of the vitamins and minerals that help kids’ bones grow strong and boosts their immune systems. So, pour some glasses for kids to dunk for a cozy treat on a cool afternoon.  We have great local dairies that provide us with nutritious and wholesome dairy products every day!

Kid Friendly Gluten Free Recipes

The best kid friendly gluten free recipes are delicious and nutritious. They will get your kids trying healthy food and asking for more in a jiffy. Cooking together is the perfect way to bond with your child and get them eating healthy for a lifetime.

For more nutritious ideas, read our blog today.

When sunshine is scarce and long evenings are spent indoors, these fun chicken dinner ideas are a great way to bring the family together and spice up your day. 

It won’t be long before the flowers start to bloom and the afternoon light stretches late into the evening, but for now, the brief moments of clear skies are here just to tease us. Jackets are still needed, and the grass is still perpetually damp. 

Like the last two weeks of classes before a senior’s graduation, the last few weeks of winter seem to drag in the PNW. On days when it seems it will never end, dinner can be more than a meal–it can be a fun family activity to break up the day and actually enjoy your precious time together. Since you’ll likely be dining indoors for a little while longer, why not try one of these delicious chicken dinner ideas?

Homemade Individual Chicken Pesto Pizzas

Homemade personal pizzas are sure to please a wide range of diverse taste buds, because they’re as individual as the people making them! This foolproof, fun to make meal will help your kids gain confidence in their cooking skills or give you and your dinner guests something to do with your hands while you all catch up on life together. 

Oil a baking sheet (you may have to use more than one sheet, depending on how many pizzas you make).

Start with a simple pizza crust. You can use a packaged pizza crust, or–if you’re feeling fancy–make your own with this simple recipe from Taste and Tell. Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce also carries cauliflower pizza dough as a healthier alternative to a traditional crust. 

Whatever dough you use, divide it into four parts. This is where the whole family can get involved. Flour a large surface and your hands and stretch and roll each piece into a six-inch circle. Place on oiled baking sheets. 

Spread a generous amount of pesto onto each circle, leaving at least half an inch around the edge bare.

Sprinkle your choice of cheese over the sauce, covering it completely. Add pizzazz to your pizzas with Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce’s wide variety of specialty cheeses. Fresh mozzarella and ricotta make an especially scrumptious combination. 

Add toppings. The sky’s the limit with topping possibilities, but for a pesto pizza, consider pan grilling chicken from Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce’s fresh meat selections. Some other meat options are sausage and pepperoni. Don’t forget roasted tomatoes, olives, fresh basil, and red bell pepper. 

Finally, bake pizza dough according to directions, checking on them early and often since they’re smaller. 

Oven Baked Chicken Kabobs

Oven baked kabobs are a great way to bring the flavor of summer grill-outs to your table, no matter the weather outside. Kids love being able to build their own kabobs, and there’s just something special about dinner on a stick!

The trick to making kabobs in the oven is to soak wooden kabobs for 12 hours so they don’t burn in the oven. This is a great time to get your chicken marinating as well!

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. 

Chop raw chicken into 1-inch pieces. Assume each person will eat about 4oz of chicken, so one small breast or half a large breast each. Place in a ziploc bag with teriyaki marinade and refrigerate. You can use store bought marinade or make your own with this recipe from Allrecipes. Marinate for at least 20 minutes, up to 24 hours prior to baking. 

When the chicken is almost done marinating, preheat the oven to 450℉.

Chop bell peppers (the more colors, the better), fresh pineapple chunks, and purple onions into 1-inch chunks. Try to chop equal amounts of each ingredient.

Once the chicken has finished marinating, it’s time for assembly! This is the fun part. Place each ingredient in a separate bowl and let each person build their own kabobs, alternating ingredients until the kabob is almost full. Leave one inch on each end for easier handling. 

Place kabobs on baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until chicken reaches 165℉ internally.

With summer on the way, this chicken dinner is a great way to prep those taste buds for all the meals you’ll soon be enjoying in the backyard!

Crockpot Chicken Tacos for the Whole Family

Prepare for a new family staple! This chicken dinner could not be simpler and is packed with flavor for the whole family to enjoy. Everyone can assemble their own chicken tacos to their taste, so all you have to do is prepare the ingredients!

Start with four or five chicken breasts in the bottom of your Crockpot. You can pick up fresh chicken breasts at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, or keep your freezer stocked with our bulk frozen chicken breasts!

Sprinkle a packet of taco seasoning evenly over the chicken breasts. You can use a premade packet, or make your own from Tacoma Boys and H&L’s bulk spices using this recipe from Gimme Some Oven. If you choose to make your own, use 2-3 tablespoons of seasoning, depending on your preference. 

Pour one jar of Tacoma Boys Salsa over the top. 

Cook on high 3-4 hours or low 7-8.

Shred chicken directly in the pot. Pro tip: use your handheld mixer to shred the chicken easily and quickly. 

Enjoy on flour or corn tortillas. These tacos are great topped with cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, jalapenos, onions, and tomatoes, all of which you can find in our fresh produce section. This recipe makes plenty, so feel free to invite a crowd!

Personal Chicken Packets

These quick, easy-to-make chicken packets are comfort food without the extra work. Try this chicken dinner idea on warm on a cold evening, or–if by chance we get some sun–take them on the go after they’ve cooled! 

Preheat oven to 350℉.

Mix 2 pounds of cooked, cubed chicken with 1 package of cream cheese and a tablespoon of milk. Salt and pepper to taste.

Oil a tin foil lined baking sheet and unroll 2 8oz packages refrigerated crescent rolls onto it. 

Instead of tearing the rolls along the perforation, pinch the perforated line together, so you have four rectangles per tube. 

Spoon ¼ cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each rectangle. Fold up the edges and pinch together, forming a packet. 

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. 

What’s not to love about chicken, cream cheese, and crescent rolls? Kids love being able to form their own packets, and they’re easily picked up and eaten by hand. These are great for dipping in whatever sauces or dressing you have on hand!

The pace of life will pick up soon with the frenzied activities of summer, so take this chance to slow down and enjoy creating–and eating–a meal together. Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L produce, we have everything you need to make dinner an event, so stop by one of our store locations today!

Ketogenics is so popular in the culinary and dietary world, and for good reason. Aside from the science of ketosis, this eating plan challenges you to eat more fat, and cut carbs. So, in essence, you lost the pasta and bread, but you get the bacon and avocados! But there’s more to be enjoyed with keto than a simple two-item menu, and Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have everything you need.

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Does eating healthy sound like it’s too expensive for you? Believe it or not, there’s a way you can eat healthy food for less, even for under $1. Here are 3 staple foods that will have you eating healthy on a budget in no time.

Most of us have the best intentions when it comes to our food. We always want the most affordable food that are as good for our bodies as they are our wallets. However, there’s a common misconception that eating healthy on a budget is nearly impossible. In fact, it’s one of the top reasons why many of us eye that fast food cheeseburger over a healthy plate of greens.

But eating well doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. In fact, even if you only have a few dollars you can get the ingredients to make a hearty, healthy, home-cooked meal.

Here are three examples of healthy food you can get for $1 or less.

1. Oats

When it comes to eating a healthy breakfast, you have plenty of options. But to get the most bang for your buck, you’ll want to pick up a container of oats.

While cooked oats may not be everyone’s image of an ideal breakfast, there’s no more cost-effective way to start your day. The average serving of oats, which is around 1/3 of a cup, will cost you less than a dollar. Tacoma Boys sells containers of oats at a very affordable price, so you should be able to get a few pounds of oats for less than a couple of dollars in total. That means you’ll have healthy breakfasts for days!

But the cost isn’t the only reason to incorporate oats into your diet. Each serving contains several grams of soluble fiber to aid digestion and rid your body of bad cholesterol. Plus, you can do a lot of different things with oats. Remember your favorite oatmeal from when you were a kid? Recreate a healthy adult version by adding fresh berries or cinnamon to your cooked oats. Some people even enjoy making their own granola or no-bake energy bites with peanut butter. The options are endless, it just takes a little creativity.

2. Beans

Beans, beans, they’re good for your heart, the more you eat, the more you… save!

Beans are a fantastic option for eating healthy on a budget. They’re an affordable meal that won’t leave you hungry a few hours later. Cooking up a cup or two of beans will help you incorporate more fiber into your diet, as well as some extra protein. For those on a meatless or plant-based diet, beans are key for getting vital nutrients.

There are tons of options to choose from:

• Black beans
• Pinto beans
• Red beans
• Black-eyed peas
• And more!

You can pick up a pound of your favorite legume for about $1 no matter where you shop, making it one of the affordable foods out there. If you have the extra cash, we recommend buying a larger bag, as you’ll ultimately save more that way.

Plus, they’re one of the most versatile foods out there.

3. Eggs

Speaking of versatility, eggs are a common component in thousands of the world’s most beloved dishes. From omelets to frittatas to straight-up scrambled, there are dozens of ways to use a dozen eggs.

In terms of health benefits, eggs contain protein as well as vitamins D and B. Many people look to egg whites as the more nutritious portion of the egg, but there are benefits to both the white and the yolk. Egg whites are fat free, carb free, high in protein and low in calories. However, egg yolks contain vitamins A, E and K along with healthy fats the body needs. Also, compared to the whites, egg yolks are more rich in folate and vitamin B12.

Most stores offer organic eggs for a very low cost per egg, so stock up! You can also look to your community for fresh eggs. Here in the Pacific Northwest, backyard chickens have been gaining popularity in urban neighborhoods. It’s very likely you have a neighbor with chickens who gets fresh eggs every day. If the chickens are productive, they will often have a surplus and sell the eggs locally for great price. Check out your community message boards online to see if you can score some fresh eggs.

You don’t have to give up on taste when eating healthy low-cost foods.

These three foods for eating healthy on a budget will keep your stomach and wallet full, so don’t let a tight budget stop you from eating right. Oats, beans and eggs are staple foods that are best when complimented by fresh fruits and veggies. Use the money you save to stock up on quality organic produce and meats for a well-rounded, budget friendly diet.

At Tacoma Boys, we pride ourselves on offering customers the healthiest foods at the fairest prices. So, stop into one of our three locations today to see just how affordable eating well can be.

Is cooking difficult for you? Don’t worry, it is for a lot of people. Figuring out recipes, shopping for the ingredients, cooking and washing the dishes can be a lot of work! However, no matter how busy you are, there is no need to eat junk food. Here are 4 easy meals you can make, with all ingredients from a Tacoma specialty market.

We know that when life gets hectic it’s hard to eat healthy. You may want to get busy in the kitchen but find yourself exhausted after work. It’s very easy to get in the habit of eating whatever’s fast and convenient.

The good news is that you don’t need to hit the drive-thru or order take-out on those days that seem so tough. With just a few ingredients, you can make simple, quick meals that are healthy, too!

You should be able to find all of these ingredients at a Tacoma specialty market. As a safe bet, hit up Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce which is bound to have these ingredients and more.  And, you know they’ll be fresh and delicious!

Want to know more? Keep reading to learn 4 these easy recipes.

1. One Pan Chicken

For some recipes, the cleanup can be worse than the cooking itself. Watching those dishes pile up is no fun!

Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about a huge cooking mess when it comes to this simple, one pan, chicken recipe.

Just place your Tacoma Boys vegetables of choice on one side of the pan, thickly diced chicken breast in the middle, and diced potatoes on the other side. Then, bake at 425 for 45 minutes.

You can have fun with a one pan chicken recipe by switching up your veggies and seasonings. Here are some of our favorite ways to add a little flavor:

• Use Italian dressing on the chicken
• Season veggies with some garlic powder and olive oil
• Add some olive oil and pepper on your potatoes.

2. Ahi Tuna Salad

Are you looking for something a little more unique? This Asian-inspired salad will do just the trick. Ahi Tuna is a popular dish at a lot of Pacific Northwest restaurants, but it’s actually very easy to cook at home!

You can get Ahi Tuna steaks, avocados, carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers from your local Tacoma specialty market. Grate your carrots, slice the other veggies, and toss them with a green spring mix to create a salad base.

For cooking the tuna; first, you’ll want to season it to your liking. We recommend using kosher salt, cayenne pepper and whole peppercorns.

Lightly sear the Ahi Tuna by melting butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Gently place the seasoned tuna in the skillet and cook to a desired doneness, 1 1/2 minutes per side for rare.

Place your cooked tuna on top of your salad mix, and voila! You can finish it off with store-bought or home-made ginger sesame dressing.

3. Pot Roast

Now that fall is here and winter is quickly approaching, many are looking for the perfect comfort food to indulge in. For many of us, that can look like a delicious pot roast.

Just stop in to your local Tacoma specialty market for chuck roast, carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. Season your roast with some rosemary, garlic salt, pepper, and thyme. Place the roast in a slow cooker with your chopped veggies, diced potatoes, and some beef broth. Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours (for a 3-pound chuck roast).

Plus, you can use any leftover celery for a healthy snack! Just smear on some peanut butter for the ultimate go-to treat. Same goes with extra carrots, just pick your favorite dip and you’ve got plenty of snacks for later.

4. Shrimp Boil

Are you craving something Cajun? We have just the thing! Enjoy a southern shrimp boil with this easy and cheap recipe.

All you need is:

• Shrimp
• Andouille sausage
• Potatoes
• Corn on the cob

Cut your corn into quarters and dice your potatoes.

Throw everything into foil packets with some olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bake for 12 minutes at 425 and voila!

Tacoma Specialty Market Meals

If you need something quick and affordable for dinner this week, look no further than Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce! We are where folks go when looking for a Tacoma specialty market. Click here for a location near you.