As winter continues to greet us with chilly weather, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a hearty meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or simply seeking convenience without compromising on nutrition and flavor, we’ve got you covered with some easy weeknight meals for winter to nourish you through the season.
Take-Home Ready-Made Pizzas
When meal prep time is at an all time minimum, let us do all the prep. Picture this – a piping hot pizza straight out of the oven, bubbling with cheese and fresh, healthy toppings. Take the hassle out of dinner preparation by opting for ready-made pizzas from your local grocer. They’re convenient, delicious, and sure to please everyone around the dinner table. Simply up a pizza from your local Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce on your way home and pop it in the oven – dinner is served! Pick up some fresh greens and dressing to add some extra veggies to the meal. Pair with beer using our handy beer pairing guide.
Loaded Nachos with
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Craving something with a bit of Tex-Mex flair? Whip up a batch of loaded nachos using high-quality Tacoma Boys chips and salsa paired with succulent instant pot pulled pork. It’s a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Plus, the beauty of nachos lies in their versatility – feel free to customize toppings according to your preferences!
Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe
3 tablespoons brown sugar
4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground mustard
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 3-inch chunks
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 cup chicken stock
6 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, divided
1 (18-ounce) bottle favorite bbq sauce
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients from brown sugar through black pepper. Add pork chunks to bowl and toss to coat.
Using a 6-qt Instant Pot® turn on the high, sauté setting.
Add the canola oil to the instant pot; working in two batches, add pork and cook until evenly browned, about 3-4 minutes (omit this step when in a hurry, but browning does provide the richest flavor)
Add all browned pork back into the instant pot. Stir in chicken stock and 4 tablespoons vinegar. Scrape and brown bits from the bottom of the Instant Pot®. Select Pressure Cook setting and choose high heat. Set Instant Pot® time for 40 minutes. When finished cooking, quick-release pressure according to manufacturer’s directions.
When pressure has fully released, remove pork shoulder from the Instant Pot®. Use two forks to shred the meat and place back in the Instant Pot® to keep warm. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve immediately atop your Tacoma Boys Nachos.
Freezer Section Delights
Don’t overlook the treasure trove of deliciousness stocked in the freezer section at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. From pre-made casseroles to gourmet frozen meals, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. These freezer finds are a lifesaver on busy weeknights when cooking from scratch feels like a daunting task. We even have an extensive selection of gluten free options!
Rill Foods’ Local Soup & Chili Mixes
Embrace the flavors of the Pacific Northwest with Rill Foods’ local soup and chili mixes. Made locally with premium ingredients and bursting with regional flair, these mixes are a convenient way to enjoy homemade goodness without the hassle of starting from scratch.
Local Favorites
Columbia River Corn Chowder
Puget Sound Seafood Chowder
Buena Mexi Chicken Chili
Marinated Meats from the Butcher Counter
Let us save you time and help you elevate your weeknight dinners with pre-marinated meats from the butcher department. Whether you’re in the mood for succulent chicken breasts, flavorful steak, or tender pork loin, these pre-marinated options take the guesswork out of meal prep. Simply cook them up on the stovetop, grill, or oven, and pair with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Roasts for Your Crock-Pot & Instant Pot
Need some guidance on selecting the perfect cut of meat for your crock-pot or instant pot creations? Don’t hesitate to consult with the knowledgeable staff at the butcher counter. They’ll steer you in the right direction, ensuring that your winter meals are nothing short of spectacular. Recipe
With these easy weeknight meals for winter, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. Whether you opt for ready-made solutions or get creative with online recipes, winter dinners have never been more convenient or delicious. So, embrace the simplicity, savor the flavors, and make this winter season one to remember with stress-free meals that satisfy your cravings and nourish your family!
