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Crafting cheese boards are easily one of the most versatile and simple snacks to prepare! Charcuterie and cheese boards are a staple for appetizer spreads everywhere because eaters can munch […]
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When it comes to summer no-cook meals, everyone knows about pasta salad and cold cut sandwiches. But other creative dishes like nicoise salad (or other loaded salads) or spring rolls […]
Summertime is perfect for poolside gatherings, and prepping the right treats will ensure you can relax for hours around the pool. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a special celebration, here’s your guide to easy poolside treats that will keep everyone refreshed and satisfied.
Charcuterie with a Twist
Charcuterie boards make for easy snacking, and for a poolside twist, try serving them bento box or tackle box-also known as a snackle box. Fill each compartment with a variety of cured meats, cheeses, nuts, olives, and fruits. This setup is not only visually appealing but also practical, as it keeps each item separated and fresh. Plus, it’s easy to transport and set up by the pool.
Bulk Section Treasures
The bulk section at Tacoma Boys offers an array of options for easy poolside treats that are perfect for snacking. Think trail mixes with nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate, or a selection of crackers and pretzels. These bulk items are not only convenient but also allow you to mix and match to create custom snack blends that suit your vibe. Add them to your snackle box!
Caprese Salad
with Heirloom Tomatoes
A Caprese salad is a light and refreshing option that’s perfect for a summer day. Use heirloom tomatoes for their vibrant colors and rich flavors. Layer slices of tomato with fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This elegant salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Tacoma Boys’ Grilled
Corn & Zucchini Salad
For a more substantial side dish, try Tacoma Boys’ grilled corn and zucchini salad. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the freshness of the vegetables creates a delightful dish. Toss the grilled corn and zucchini with some cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a light vinaigrette for a delicious and nutritious salad. Whip some up using our recipe.
Wrap Sandwiches
Wrap sandwiches are easy to eat and can be made ahead of time. Use Tacoma Boys’ deli specials like turkey, roast beef, or ham, and add fresh veggies and spreads. Wrap them tightly in tortillas and slice them into pinwheels for a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for poolside snacking.
Fresh Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a light and healthy option, great for a hot day. Include fresh, local vegetables and herbs, wrapped in rice paper. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or soy sauce. These refreshing rolls are sure to be a hit with your guests. Try our recipe for Chicken Spring Rolls with Spicy Peanut Sauce.
Staying Hydrated
Keeping everyone hydrated is crucial, especially on a hot day. If you’re at a public pool, never fear, we have a wide variety of non-alcoholic drink options like kombucha, non-alcoholic beer, and local cider and ice tea. Kombucha offers a refreshing, slightly tangy taste and is available in many flavors. Non-alcoholic beer provides the taste of beer without the alcohol, perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavor without the effect of alcohol. Freshly squeezed lemonade, perhaps with a twist of mint or berries, is a classic and refreshing option that everyone will love.
Summer Berries
Summer berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are perfect for snacking. Their natural sweetness and juiciness make them an ideal poolside treat. Add a fancy flair by making up fruit kabobs ahead of time.
Seeded & Seedless Watermelon
Nothing says summer like watermelon. We offer both seeded and seedless varieties to cater to everyone’s preferences. Slice them into easy-to-handle pieces or use a melon baller for a fun presentation. Press popsicle sticks into wedges and freeze for an easy, ice cold treat. Watermelon is hydrating, sweet, and a perfect way to cool down by the pool.
Tacoma Boys’ Chips and Salsa
A classic poolside snack, chips and salsa are a must-have. Tacoma Boys’ tortilla chips are always crisp and flavorful, making them a perfect base for scooping up delicious salsas. We have a wide selection of Tacoma Boys’ salsas—mild, spicy, and even a fruity option like mango salsa—to cater to different taste preferences. This simple yet tasty option is sure to be a hit among your guests.
With these easy poolside treats, your summer relaxing is sure to be a splash. By incorporating a mix of savory, sweet, and hydrating options, you ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Dive into these tasty options and make the most of your time by the pool.
As we gear up to celebrate July 4th, there’s nothing better than gathering with friends and family to enjoy delicious food. While the main dishes often get all the glory, the side dishes are the unsung heroes that make your feast unforgettable. This ultimate guide to July 4th side dishes will ensure your spread is both mouth-watering and memorable, with a mix of classic favorites and creative twists.
Loaded Nachos: Tacoma Boys’ Chips & Salsa
Kick off your celebration with a crowd-pleasing favorite: loaded nachos. Using Tacoma Boys’ Blue Corn Tortilla Chips and Salsa as your base, pile on Instant Pot pulled pork, melted cheese, black beans, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. The combination of crispy chips, savory pork, and fresh salsa will have everyone coming back for more.
For a simple red, white, and blue option to add to your July 4th side dishes, serve Tacoma Boys’ Blue Corn Tortilla chips with a dipping bowl of Tacoma Boys’ medium salsa and a dipping bowl of sour cream with fresh chopped chives.
Charcuterie is Never Out of Style
For gatherings large or small, charcuterie boards are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce offers everything you need to create a stunning display, from artisanal cheeses and cured meats to gourmet crackers and spreads. Add in some fresh fruits, nuts, and pickles for a board that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Fruit Salad & Fruit Kebabs
Keep things light and refreshing with a vibrant fruit salad or fruit kebabs. Featuring the best of summer produce, like orange-fleshed honeydew and Yumi Black Seedless Watermelon, these options are perfect for a hot July day. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the fruits will be a hit with guests of all ages.
Simply things with a platter full of generously watermelon wedges. Buy the seeded variety and host a good ol’ fashioned watermelon seed spitting contest. Don’t forget to pick up a six-pack of your favorite beer (or soda for the littles) to award to the winner!
Chicken Kebabs with
Peanut Dipping Sauce
For a savory option to add to your July 4th side dishes, chicken kebabs are a must! Marinate chicken chunks in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then grill them to perfection. Or better yet, stop by the meat counter and ask what they’ve already got seasoned and ready for you! Serve with a creamy peanut dipping sauce for an irresistible combination. These kebabs are easy to make and a sure-fire hit at any BBQ.
Veggie Kebabs
Veggie kebabs are a fantastic addition for your vegetarian guests. Skewer bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions, then brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Grill until tender and slightly charred for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
Classic Pasta Salad
Whip up a crowd-pleasing pasta salad in a snap using pasta from out unparalleled pasta section. Find a unique or classic pasta as your base. Toss cooked pasta with a variety of fresh veggies, olives, and cheese. Stir in some Stonewall Kitchen Sundried Tomato Pesto or drizzle with drizzle with your favorite Sotto Voce olive oil for a flavorful and satisfying side.
Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
For a delightful bite-sized treat, try goat cheese stuffed mini peppers. Another great vegetarian option to add to your July 4th side dishes. Everyone loves one or two bite finger foods and these are perfect! Check out our recipe.
Street Corn
Street corn, or elote, is a classic to add to your July 4th side dishes. Grill corn on the cob until it’s charred and smoky, then slather with mayonnaise, sprinkle with cotija cheese, and dust with chili powder. A squeeze of lime juice adds the perfect finishing touch.
Gnarly Garlic Dip
No gathering is complete without a good dip, and Gnarly Garlic Dip is a top choice. Serve it with fresh veggies, chips, or crackers. The robust garlic flavor paired with a creamy base makes it an addictive addition to your July 4th side dishes.
Cyrus O’Leary’s Coconut Cream Pie
For dessert, you can’t go wrong with Cyrus O’Leary’s Coconut Cream Pie. Its rich, creamy filling and flaky crust are the perfect way to end your meal. The tropical coconut flavor is a refreshing contrast to the savory sides and hearty mains. Pick one up in our freezer section!
Don’t Forget the Beer!
Last but not least, make sure you have a selection of cold beers on hand. Whether your guests prefer a light lager, a hoppy IPA, or a rich stout, having a variety will ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Beer pairs wonderfully with many of the dishes on this list and is a staple for any July 4th celebration.
With this ultimate guide to July 4th side dishes, your holiday gathering is sure to be a hit. From loaded nachos and charcuterie boards to fruit salads and street corn, these dishes offer something for everyone. So, fire up the grill, set out your sides, and enjoy a delicious and festive Fourth of July!
Summer is a vibrant time for fresh produce, offering a colorful bounty of fruits and vegetables that are as delicious as they are nutritious. From juicy cherries to succulent melons, summer’s harvest provides endless opportunities to create refreshing and healthy dishes. Let’s dive into some of Summer’s Best Produce and explore delightful recipes that highlight their flavors.
Local Cherries
Cherries are synonymous with summer. Bing cherries, with their deep red color and sweet flavor, are perfect for snacking. Rainier cherries, known for their golden-yellow hue and delicate sweetness without the higher acid levels, are great for eating by the handful.
Fresh Melons
Nothing says summer like fresh melons. Whether it’s a traditional cantaloupe, honeydew, or the lesser-known but equally delicious organic Umi black seedless watermelon, these fruits are hydrating and perfect for hot days. Enjoy them individually or toss together a delicious fruit salad, fruit kebabs, or try your hand at “shaved fruit dessert.”
Don’t forget to try delicious, super sweet, orange fleshed honeydew! This hybrid variety of melon is a cross between green fleshed honeydew and orange fleshed muskmelon. The result is an incredibly sweet and beautiful fruit to add to your breakfast spread!
Big Seeded Old-Fashioned Watermelon
For those who love a bit of nostalgia, the big seeded old-fashioned watermelon offers a taste of summers past. Its sweet, juicy flesh and fun-to-spit-out seeds make it a family favorite. Seeded old-fashioned watermelons are one of Summer’s Best Produce items. Serve in oversized wedges and host a seed spitting contest! Or try your hand at homemade Watermelon Aqua Fresca!
Flavor Bomb Tomatoes
& Tower Basil
These tomatoes are aptly named; their intense flavor bursts in every bite. They are excellent for salads, salsas, or just eating fresh off the vine. Try them tossed with mozzarella, basil, cucumber and a drizzle of Sotto Voce olive oil.
Tomatoes & basil are best buds. Pick up a tower basil plant to have basil on hand as your garden tomatoes ripen. Tower basil, with its robust aroma and flavor, is essential for summer dishes, especially when making pesto or caprese salads.
Local Peaches & Berries
The juicy sweetness of local peaches is unparalleled. Fruits are picked at optimum ripeness for flavor, not for traveling long distances. Local berries, such as strawberries and raspberries, especially from Washington, are also summer staples, known for their exceptional flavor and freshness.
Garlic Spears
Garlic spears are the flower of young garlic plants picked before flowering. They offer a mild, garlic flavor, perfect for grilling. They have a short season of availability, but are absolutely worth picking up when they are available.
Summer Recipes to Savor
Fruit Kabobs
Fruit kabobs are not only delicious but also fun to make. Thread chunks of watermelon, melon, peaches, and strawberries onto skewers. Serve with a yogurt dip flavored with a hint of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Grilled Fruit
Grilling fruit enhances its natural sweetness. Try grilling peach halves, pineapple slices, or melon wedges. Brush lightly with olive oil and grill until you see char marks. Serve as a side dish or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.
Berry and Basil Dessert
For a light and elegant dessert, toss fresh strawberries and raspberries with a bit of sugar and let them macerate for 30 minutes. Serve over a dollop of mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt, and top with thinly sliced basil.
Watermelon and Feta Salad
This classic combination is a summer favorite. Cube big seeded watermelon and mix with crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onions, and chopped mint or basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
Making the most of summer’s best produce is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors and health benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re snacking on juicy cherries, savoring a fresh fruit salad, or enjoying a grilled fruit dessert, these recipes highlight the best of what summer has to offer. Visit your local Tacoma Boys’ and H&L Produce to find the freshest ingredients and celebrate the season with these delicious dishes.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Chicken, bacon, and ranch are a win-win flavor combination that tastes so good!
Grilled Avocado and Romaine Caesar
Tender grilled avocado, romaine lettuce, and grilled onion go together just right. It’s a fun riff on a caesar salad that brings a smokey grilled flavor to simple ingredients.
Watermelon, Cucumber, and Feta Salad
Juicy, crunchy, and refreshing, this fruity salad has all the texture and flavor elements necessary for a satisfying bite! Salty, briny feta comes together perfectly with the ripe watermelon.
Grilled Spicy Ginger Steak Bites
These steak bites are tender, juicy, and pack some heat! Use cayenne pepper in the marinade and finish with red pepper flakes for the ultimate spicy flavor.
Citrus Mint Salad
Fresh citrus, herbaceous mint, and zesty lime make up this easy and refreshing summer salad! It’s perfect for potlucks and adds a fruity lightness to your picnic spread of potatoes, meat, and pasta salads.
Grilled Vegetable Panini With Pesto Mayo
The fresh taste of summer comes through in each bite of this grilled vegetable panini with pesto mayo. Seasonal zucchini, bell pepper, and herbaceous basil makes this panini satisfying and refreshing.
Grilled Sausage, Peppers, And Onions
Smoky grilled sausage, bell peppers, and white onion brings all the flavors for a perfect entree. Serve this grilled recipe on its own or on rice, salad, or buns.
Creamy Lemon Tilapia Filets
Fresh tilapia filets are baked and served with a quick and easy lemon cream sauce in this refreshing recipe. Serve the filets with sides like rice or mashed potatoes and green beans for a full meal that’s oh-so satisfying!
