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!

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!

As fall quite literally ‘falls’ upon us, it’s the perfect time to get geared up for the holidays. If you love to host, Tacoma Boys has an easy guide to help you build the perfect fall charcuterie board that is sure to impress guests. Are you familiar with charcuterie? If not, have no fear! According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the French word charcuterie translates to cold cuts, or cured meat in English. These meats are typically served on a wooden board and are accompanied by various cheeses and grazing foods.

What’s great about this appetizer is that it is completely customizable for any occasion. In this case, we’d say the new season deserves the perfect fall charcuterie board in its honor, wouldn’t you agree?! A charcuterie board may be the easiest and most impressive appetizer you can set out at a party. Depending on the way you arrange it, the visual of the board can be quite stunning – some might even say, “Instagram worthy”. 

How to Start Building Your Fall Charcuterie Board

Firstly, when building an appetizer board, there’s a wide variety of ingredients you can choose from to create the ultimate fall charcuterie board. Secondly, pairing in-season produce with complimentary cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal toppers like fruit jam and spreads will keep your guests coming back for more. It’s important to play around with different textures and ensure there is a good combination of savory and sweet. Lucky for you, Tacoma Boys has everything you need – including great deals – to help you build the perfect fall charcuterie board!

Choose Your Meat 

There is an amazing selection of cured meats and cold cuts to choose from at Tacoma Boys. We love the salty flavor profile the meats bring to the boards and how versatile they can be when it comes to pairing them with other foods. We suggest choosing 2-3 different charcuterie meats for your board. A few different cured meats we are loving for a fall charcuterie board are:

Elevation Artisan Meats

We love these charcuterie meats because they are made with so much creativity and incredible flavors. We suggest the black pepper salami made with peppercorns and red wine, or the salami made with sea salt and black summer truffles. We must warn you though, you should be careful to not eat it all before placing it on your board! 

Brooklyn Cured

Brooklyn Cured is a small batch charcuterie brand that packs a punch when it comes to flavor. The smoked beef salami is a New York City deli style meat that was created with inspiration from New York delis and their history. Their bresaola is another great option for a fall charcuterie board as its air dried beef, similar to prosciutto, but made with beef as opposed to pork. Adding a unique cured meat made with beef will really elevate your appetizer.

Columbus Craft Meats

We carry a wide selection of Columbus Craft Meats! Some of our favorites to add to a charcuterie board are prosciutto, genoa salami, and the peppered salami. The peppered salami brings a subtle amount of heat and is great when paired with nuts, dried fruit, and fig jam!

Select Your Cheese

In our opinion, cheese is in the top three most important ingredients for a fall charcuterie board. Tacoma Boys carries a very large selection so you have plenty choices to choose from to ensure a perfect board. Some of our favorite choices are: Apple Farms Smoked Gouda, Beecher’s Flagship Handmade Cheese, Hoffman’s Vermont Cheddar, and. Henri Hutin Brie Couronne, and Montchevre Blueberry Vanilla Goat Cheese. We recommend always having at least one soft cheese such as brie or goat cheese. 

Pick Your Crackers

Finishing off our top 3 ingredients for a charcuterie board is crackers, bread, breadsticks, and more. Having this component for people to use as a base for their cured meats, cheese, and fruits. As a result, it adds great texture. Right now we are loving: I Grissini Del Vecchio Palone Crispy Breadsticks with olive oil and Tacoma Boys French Baguette Chips. If you’re looking for a gluten free option, Simple Mills has a fantastic line of grain free crackers.

Finish with Fall Produce and Local Favorites

Sweet

After you’ve decided on your cured meat, cheese, and crackers, it’s time to build your board! It’s important to finish it with fresh fall produce and your favorite local ingredients. We recommend using fall’s favorite fruit: apples, figs, organic locally grown concord grapes, and freshly sliced Bartlett pears. For fruit jams and spreads, Tacoma Boys’ Strawberry Fig Preserves, Divina Kalamata Fig Spread, and Stonewall Kitchen Fig & Ginger Jam will provide the perfect amount of sweetness for your board.

Salty

Adding a few salty, acidic components will bring this fall board to the next level. We love kalamata olives, green olives, and picked vegetables. These foods help balance out the rest of the board.

To assemble:

1. Place your cheeses on various spots on the board as well as your jam/preserves. You can pour your jam into small serving bowls or simply place the jar straight onto the board.
2. Fold your cured meats however you like, or simply spread them out around the board’s empty spaces and around the cheese. 
3. Follow with your cracker/breadstick choices by placing them around the board similar to the meat. 
4. Finish your board by filling in the leftover gaps with sliced fruit, dried fruit, and nuts.
5. Garnish your board with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Place cheese knives and serving utensils around the board.
6. For those with kids, omit the cheese knives and simply replace the blocks of cheese with pre-sliced cheese. Having everything pre-sliced such as the cured meats, cheese, and fruit makes this an easy appetizer for all!
7. Note: remember that charcuterie boards are rustic and don’t need to be perfect!

Just Like That, An Easy Fall Appetizer

You really cannot go wrong with choosing a charcuterie board as an appetizer when hosting. They’re versatile, creative, fun to assemble, and simply easy! Although these boards are great for hosting, they’re also perfect for a date night, a picnic, a movie night with your girls, and don’t forget the most important part – they pair great with all kinds of wine – enjoy!

Independence Day is upon us! If you’re looking for appetizers to wow a crowd, desserts to celebrate summer, and drinks to keep the whole crew cool, look no further. Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have everything you need to make this a fantastic 4th of July!

The weather has warmed up, Washington is in full bloom, and our favorite summer holiday is on the way! Maybe you’ll be barbecuing in your backyard with your closest friends and family. Or perhaps you’ll spend the day out on the water with a drink in your hand and the sun on your skin. And you’ll likely end the day snuggled up somewhere under a night sky full of fireworks. However you choose to celebrate the birth of our nation, we’re willing to bet food will be a big part of it! So, whether you want to get your party started with red, white, and blue shish kebabs or end your evening with a slice of coconut cream pie, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have just the thing. 

Tacoma Boys Guide to a Fantastic 4th of July

Struggling for ideas on what to bring? No worries! We’ve come up with a list of perfect Independence Day appetizers, drinks and desserts to make your 4th fantastic. 

How Appetizing!

Having a light snack on hand between the moment guests arrive and when the main course is ready is a great way to help them feel at ease and give them something to do with their hands. And appetizers don’t have to be elaborate to be fun and impressive! These simple, easy to prepare appetizers will be sure to set a patriotic tone for your 4th of July celebration. 

Patriotic Chips and Dip

While it’s not exactly brimming with originality, all this tried and true classic needs is a slight twist to make it delightfully fresh. For a patriotic vibe, start with Tacoma Boys Blue Corn Tortilla Chips. Then, add one ramekin of cream cheese and another of Tacoma Boys Salsa. Viola! You have a red, white, and blue appetizer that’ll keep your guests coming back for more. If salsa isn’t really your thing, you’ve got to try Tacoma Boys Corn Relish! Delicious on our blue corn chips, our regular tortilla chips, or all by itself, our corn relish is bursting with summer flavors perfect for kicking off your backyard barbecue. 

Red, White and Blue Skewers

The concept is simple. It’s just raspberries, blueberries, and cheese on a stick. But you’ll be shocked at how perfectly the flavors complement one another, and your guests will love the colorful nod to the holiday! The key to this fun appetizer is quality ingredients. So, swing by our produce department to find the freshest blueberries and raspberries in town. Then, head over to our cheese section for some Tillamook White Cheddar Cheese. When adding your ingredients to the skewers, be sure to alternate your raspberries, chunks of white cheese, and blueberries for a patriotic vibe. For some variety, substitute squares of watermelon for raspberries or a milder cheese like Red Apple CheeseⓇ Apple Smoked Gouda in lieu of cheddar. Sure to please adults and children alike, these red, white, and blue appetizers will be a great addition to your fantastic 4th of July!

Drink up!

Are your 4th of July memories full of melting popsicles and cannonballs into the pool to keep cool? Ours too! Because, what’s Independence Day without the sweltering heat of a hot July sun? With any luck, the weather will be fine, and you’ll have a chance to serve some of these cool and refreshing drinks!

Summer Berry Sangria

There’s something about a white sangria that just screams “summer celebration.” Even better, this recipe for Mixed Berry Sangria from Taste of Home is–you guessed it–red, white and blue! It calls for a white sparkling wine, so check out our extensive wine selection and take your pick. We recommend 14 Hands “Brut” Sparkling Wine (made right here in Washington State). Be sure to serve this light, bubbly sangria with a spoon, so your guests can enjoy the yummy berries when the drink is gone!

Washington Hard Apple Cider

Hard apple cider is great for barbecues, boats, and backyards. And nobody does it quite like Washington! At Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, you’ll find an incredible variety of ciders to suit your taste. We recommend One Tree Cider’s “Staycation.” Bursting with mango and pineapple, it’s a vacation in a can! Or, try Whitewood Cider Co.’s Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub Cider Cooler. Made with Washington apples, this cider is an ideal balance of sweet and sour. Both One Tree and Whitewood are here in Washington, so you’ll be supporting local businesses while enjoying some of the best ciders in the PNW.

Sweeten the Deal!

Hopefully by now, you and your friends will be stuffed to the brim with sliders, brats, melons, and potato salad. But if there’s one thing childhood taught us, it’s that there’s always room for dessert! And there’s no better way to end a fantastic 4th of July than with something sweet. 

Independence Day Ice Cream

It wouldn’t be a proper 4th of July without ice cream! Give your sundaes a holiday twist by keeping your toppings on theme. Start with vanilla ice cream (we recommend Umpqua, a local favorite). Add FavoritⓇ Sour Cherry Preserves Red Cherries from our jam section. Then, top with blueberries and whipped cream! For additional toppings, consider white chocolate chips, blackberries, or strawberries. Nothing goes better with a firework show than a good old fashioned ice cream sundae! 

Coconut Cream Pie

Do you love the idea of pie on the 4th of July, but aren’t in the mood to bake over a hot oven for hours? Have no fear, we have you covered. Simply swing by our freezer section and grab a Cyrus O’Leary’s Coconut Cream Pie. Tired of red, white, and blue? Neither are we! So, serve with Tacoma Boys Blueberry Preserves and drizzle with strawberry sauce for the perfect Independence Day dessert. 

Have a Fantastic Fourth of July with Tacoma Boys!

Whether you’re hosting a celebration and need a little support, or you’re looking for a quick something to bring to the party, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce are your one-stop shop for all your Independance Day needs. Swing by one of our locations today for the quality ingredients you need to make this 4th of July truly fantastic!

One of the best things about living here in the Pacific Northwest in the summer is the abundance of perfectly ripened, Washington grown berries. Over 30 varieties of edible berries are native to our state! This extensive list includes national favorites like strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries. And then there are berries Washington grows best and has become somewhat known for, like cherries (ok, technically not a berry, but still delicious!) and marionberries. With all these berries flourishing right here in our own backyard, it’s no surprise many jam and jelly makers call our state home. And of course, the best place to find locally grown and jarred jelly spreads, preserves, and jams is your own neighborhood Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce. 

What’s the Difference?

The sheer number of options for a jelly connoisseur can be overwhelming, so we’ve curated a few of our favorites right here. But first, you might be asking, what’s the difference between jam, jelly, and preserves? Well, it’s relatively simple. It’s mostly about consistency. Jelly is your smoothest option, and it’s often clear or at least somewhat translucent. Jam usually consists of crushed or muddled fruit, so it’s a little stiffer–still spreadable, but holds its own shape better than jelly. Finally, preserves are usually fruit chunks in gelatin or syrup. There, now you’ll know just what you’re looking at when you peruse our wide range of jellies, jams, and preserves. Without further ado, we give you our favorites!

The Best Jelly Spreads, Jams, and Preserves in the Pacific Northwest

Artie’s Harvest Small Batch Blackberry Jam

Artie’s Harvest is a locally owned and operated small business. They specialize in honey, but lucky for us–and you–they also produce an occasional small batch of delicious, locally grown jam. They battle the blackberry bushes, so you don’t have to (if you’ve ever encountered a Washington blackberry bush, you know what I mean–ouch!), and the result is blackberry jam that’s to die for. Try it on a classic peanut butter and jelly to take your childhood favorite to the next level!

Jammy Yummy Carrot Jam 

Yes, you read that right. Carrot Jam. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it! Based in Florida, Jammy Yummy creates six different vegetable spreads, including tomato, red pepper, and even a caramelized onion jam! Try their carrot jam on a bagel with cream cheese for a breakfast that tastes just like carrot cake. Almost. 

Stonewall Kitchen’s New England Raspberry Relish

Stonewall Kitchen’s specialty foods have been gracing and improving gift baskets for years, and with great reason! They produce baking mixes, sauces, condiments and more, but it all started with their jams and jellies. As a result, you can’t go wrong with any of the flavors of Stonewall Kitchen jams and jellies we carry! But let us suggest their New England Raspberry relish. It’s great on turkey, deli style turkey sandwiches, and chicken. While you’re at it, try their Strawberry Apple Rhubarb Jam, or keep it simple with Concord Grape Jelly. 

Dickenson’s Lemon Curd 

Dickenson’s–now one of America’s premiere makers of gourmet jams–started in the 1800’s right here in the Pacific Northwest! What started in a garden and pantry of a homestead in Willamette Valley has become a national gourmet brand. No time to make lemon curd at home? No problem! Grab a jar of Dickenson’s Lemon Curd made by the experts. Try it on pancakes or ginger cookies or cheesecake, or in between cake layers as a mouthwatering filling.

Maury Island Farms Marionberry Jam

Located right here in Tukwila, WA, Maury Island farms creates all natural local jams and jellies. And their marionberry jam perfectly compliments fresh baked scones or is great all by itself on a slice of toast. In addition to marionberry jam, try their Tart Cherry Preserves or Boysenberry Jelly Spread. You’ll be glad you did!

Elki Scandinavian Delights Lingonberry Jam

With recipes and product lines straight from Denmark, Elki’s Scandanavian Delights taste every bit like the real deal they are. A family-owned company, Elki’s has been creating high quality Scandanavian preserves since 1984. Even the lingonberries are harvested in Denmark, with just the right balance of sweet and sour. To get the full experience, try this recipe for Swedish Pancakes. Top them with powdered sugar, a dollop of butter and a spoonful of lingonberry jam. Enjoy the taste of Denmark from the comfort of your own kitchen!

Tacoma Boys Ancho Chile Pepper Jelly Spread

If you haven’t tried chile pepper spread, now’s the time! Our own take on pepper jam is flavorful and sweet with just the right amount of kick. Start with a mild water cracker or rice cracker (Milton’s Gluten Free Original Rice Crackers from our gluten free section are great for this), add a high quality white cheddar cheese from our cheese section (we like Coastal or Aussie White Gold), and top with Tacoma Boys Ancho Chile Pepper Spread. This jelly spread is also great with a crusty baguette and brie. So don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to appetizer when you’re entertaining a crowd!

In a Jam? We’ve Got You Covered

Whether you’re looking for fig butter for your charcuterie board, cranberry preserves to garnish your pork chops, or good old fashioned grape jelly for your peanut butter and jelly, you’ll find it at your local Tacoma Boy’s and H&L Produce. We care deeply about our local farmers and value their commitment to harvesting the best local berries in sustainable ways. And, with countless unique flavors and high quality ingredients, we’re sure you’ll be satisfied with a jar chosen from one of our locations. So stop by today for the best quality jams, jelly spreads , and preserves in the Pacific Northwest!

Intimidated by the thought of grilling up a lobster tail? Contrary to what you might think, preparing seafood at home doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve put together a simple how-to, so you don’t have to miss out on all the quality seafood the PNW has to offer. 

True, seafood can be an involved process. But isn’t that how it is with most things worth doing? There’s a reason seafood is often considered a special occasion food–there are many ways to go wrong, so it’s even more impressive when you nail it. Lucky for you, you now have an insider’s guide to selecting, preparing, and serving the highest quality seafood in the PNW, and it’s not as difficult as you think!

Quality is Key

While there are many decisions regarding the preparation of great seafood, the most important decisions are made in the selection. No matter how great you are at seasoning, grilling, broiling, or baking, nothing will enhance the flavor of your dish like choosing quality seafood at the store. When it comes to seafood, the fresher the better. The great news is, we have access to an abundance of fresh seafood in the PNW, and here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we source our seafood locally. So whenever you purchase seafood at one of our stores, you can rest assured you’ve already made the best choice when it comes to the quality of your seafood. And we have a great selection–from succulent crab legs to our fresh ahi tuna steaks–along with the other ingredients and spices you’ll need to prepare quality local seafood at home! Let’s get started.

How to Prepare and Serve Quality Local Seafood

Lobster Tail

Selection and Preparation

Possibly the most intimidating item on our list, so we’ll tackle it first! Many would argue that you can’t beat live lobsters, but if you don’t feel up to killing lobsters yourself, you can find wild caught lobster tails on ice in our meat department. There are many great ways to prepare lobster tails, and they all have their own advantages. Regardless of the method you choose, you’ll want to rinse and dry your whole tails before cooking them. Check the meat for the darkly colored digestive tract, and remove and discard if present. You can cook lobster tail in the shell, but we highly recommend that you “butterfly” them instead. This process involves pulling the meat from the shell and setting it on top while still attached at the fin. You’ll find it’s not as hard as it sounds, and it will give your tails that signature look you see in restaurants. You can butterfly your lobster tails for every method of cooking except boiling. 

Cooking

As far as methods for cooking, you’ll find there are many–including steaming, baking, grilling, or broiling, but we recommend baking for greater control over the process and best retention of flavor. Preheat oven to 450°F. After you’ve butterflied your tails, season with Tacoma Boys “Cape Cod Style” Seafood Seasoning. Bake 12-15 minutes until the meat is a creamy white color with no translucent spots. Do not overcook your lobster, or it will have a rubbery consistency. Serve with melted butter, lemon and parsley. Perfect for your next special occasion (Father’s Day is coming up!), but easier than you thought possible, this meal is sure to impress!

Clams and Oysters

Selection and Storage

While biologically different, the preparation for clams and oysters is relatively similar. They  make a great appetizer and are shockingly simple to prepare. Oysters and clams are both nutritionally dense, both high in protein, both low calorie and low fat. Oysters are a great source of phosphorus, calcium, zinc, potassium and a famed aphrodisiac. Meanwhile, clams are packed with Vitamin B-12, Vitamin C, magnesium and iron. To guarantee freshness, clams and oysters are sold live. We have them on ice, available by the dozen. Ensure the oysters and clams you’re purchasing are live by checking to see that they’re all the way closed, or tap them. If they move, they’re still alive. Store in the fridge in a porous bag like burlap, or in a bowl covered with a damp paper towel for no more than 24 hours. If you store them in an airtight container, they’ll suffocate. 

Preparation

When you’re ready to prepare and eat your clams or oysters, soak them in a brine (1 gallon of water mixed with ⅓ cup of salt for a few hours.) Pro Tip: If you add cornmeal to the mixture, it’ll lighten the meat and clear sand from the digestive tract. Next, scrub with a stiff brush. For easier opening, put in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. If you have an oyster shucker, it might make the task of opening your shellfish easier, but if not, you can use a paring knife or a flat head screwdriver. Shuck the clam or oyster flat side up. Your goal is to work the blade into the crack and sever the adductor muscle that holds the shell together. You’ll want to do this over a bowl to save the juice inside (called clam liquor). 

Presentation

You can serve raw clams and oysters on the half shell, no cooking required! Simply fill a serving dish with ice, and nestle them in. For a great presentation, set ramekins with horseradish, lemon juice, and tabasco sauce in the middle. Great for parties, with very few steps required, this appetizer will please a crowd every time!

Crab Legs

Unless you’re buying live crabs, crab legs come pre-cooked, so essentially all you’re doing is reheating them. The trick becomes doing so while still maintaining flavor and retaining moisture. The good news is, we take the guesswork out of the selection process by carrying nothing but the best wild-caught king crab legs. 

Steaming

If you’re cooking for a crowd, steaming is recommended. For this method, simply place your steam basket in the bottom of a stock-pot with 1 cup of water. Fold as many legs as will fit into the basket, close it, and bring the pot to a boil. Once you have a boil, put the lid on your pan and cook for about 5 minutes, until the crab legs are steaming hot and fragrant. 

Instant Pot Method

For a smaller number of people, the instant pot is a great method for cooking! The instant pot helps maintain juiciness and gets dinner on the table fast. For this method, place your trivet in the bottom of your 6 qt instant pot along with 1 cup of water. Fold 3-4 clusters of crab legs into the pot. Then put the lid on and set it to “sealing.” Next, set the pot to manual on high pressure for 4 minutes. Quick release, and your legs are ready!

Serving

Be sure to have a crab cracker or walnut cracker on hand, as well as a bowl for the shells. Melt butter and mix in Tacoma Boys “Cape Cod Style” Seafood Seasoning and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for dipping. Wow your partner with crab legs on your next date night in or serve with a salad at a dinner party for a meal that will leave them speechless. 

Fish

Last but not least, try our mouth-watering wild caught steelhead fillets or a wild ahi tuna steak. When you have fish this fresh, it’s best to keep it simple with the preparation. This allows the flavor of the fish to come through without competition. 

Steelhead Fillets

For a perfectly done steelhead fillet, preheat your oven to 375° F. Rub fillets with Tacoma Boys “Cedar Plank” Sweet + Smoky Salmon Rub. Spray a sheet of aluminum foil with cooking spray and place the steelhead filet in the middle. Fold up sides of the foil. Pour melted butter over each fillet. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Steelhead is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Serve with lemon wedges. 

Ahi Tuna Steaks

The simplest and most delicious way to enjoy ahi tuna steaks is a simple pan fry. Begin by marinating tuna steaks for a minimum of 2-3 hours in Tacoma Boys Spicy Asian Honey Marinade. Then, preheat a cast-iron skillet to 450° F in the oven. Transfer the hot skillet to the stove on medium-high heat. Drizzle avocado oil (or another oil with a very high heat index, like grapeseed oil) onto the pan, and sear tuna steaks on each side for 1 ½ to 2 minutes on each side for a rare sear (why would you eat ahi tuna steaks any other way? But if you insist, give it a little longer on each side). If desired, top with more marinade or soy sauce. 

High in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, fish is a great source of lean protein. The oils that come from fish are also great for joint, tendon, and ligament health. Plus, when cooked to perfection, fish is simply scrumptious!

In a bind for time? Don’t miss out on our pre-seasoned fillets. We offer delicious flavor combinations like Potato and Cheddar Crusted Cod Fillets and Chipotle & Lime Crusted Tilapia–all you have to do is cook them!

The Best Seafood in the PNW

If you’re lucky enough to live in the PNW, you’re surrounded by some of the highest quality seafood the country has to offer. Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we recognize and appreciate the opportunity we have to bring everything the great state of Washington has to offer to your table. Stop by and let our friendly store associates help you choose a great salmon fillet or king crab leg today!

For many reasons, this Easter is unlike any that have come before. Perhaps your gathering will be smaller than usual. Maybe you’re spending the holiday in Washington when you normally would travel. Or perhaps it’s not possible to get together with the friends you usually have over for Easter. With these many changes, we’re all faced with the question: for better or for worse? In so many ways, the answer may be beyond our control. So what do we do with the things we can control? 

In this time of uncertainty and unpredictability, there are a few things that are true and unchanging. Spring is here. Easter is on its way. While ordinary may not be a choice we have this year, there is so much we can do to make this Easter special.

Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we have everything you need to make this holiday unforgettable for you and your family. We’re your one stop shop for appetizers, main courses, decorations and Easter gifts. Let us help you create an atmosphere, a meal, and a memory you and your loved ones will cherish forever.

6 Ways Tacoma Boys Can Help You Have an Extraordinary Easter

1. Appetizers

Having appetizers as a part of your Easter celebration is a great way to signal to yourself and your family the significance of the meal as a special occasion. It may feel awkward or silly if your gathering is especially small, but give it a try and see if something as simple as sharing an appetizer doesn’t give your meal a holiday vibe. Swing by our frozen food section and peruse our premade appetizer options for a quick and easy appetizer spread, or gather the ingredients to make your own. Before the main meal begins is a great time to break out a classic like these Deviled Eggs from The Food Network. Or pick up a selection of fruits and berries from our produce section for a fruit salad!

2. The Main Meal

One of the best ways to make your Easter extraordinary is by going all out with the main course. Perhaps you’re craving a sense of normalcy this year, and a traditional ham would be a great option for you. In that case, we love this simple and delicious three ingredient recipe for Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham. The best part? You can throw it in the Crockpot early in the day and forget about it until go time. Or maybe this is your year to try your hand at something a bit more involved, like this Crown Roast of Lamb from Alton Brown. Alternatively, order your foolproof, mouth watering Standing Rib Roast from one of our locations today! Whether you choose ham or lamb or chicken or roast, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have expert butchers who can point you in the direction of the choicest meats in Tacoma. 

3. Sides

When it comes to making this Easter Extraordinary, sides make the meal! Nothing says “Easter” like a table brimming with mouth watering dishes. Try setting out a variety of sweet and savory sides for a meal that feels balanced and complete. The sky’s the limit here, but we have some suggestions to point you in the right direction. For a sweet take on a classic veggie, these Roasted Carrots with Candied Pecans are a mouthwatering addition to your feast. Or perhaps for you, Easter is incomplete if it doesn’t include scalloped potatoes. In that case, The Girl Who Ate Everything has you covered with this classic recipe you can make ahead of time. From broccoli casserole to ambrosia fruit salad, H&L Produce and Tacoma Boys’ produce sections have what you need to make it delicious. 

4. Desserts 

What would Easter be if we didn’t don our stretchy pants for the final stomach stuffing round we all know and love–dessert? If your Easter includes children, it’s probably all about the candy for them, so we love this take on cupcakes with a hidden candy surprise from Betty Crocker. If you’re aiming to impress a more mature audience this year, display this stunning Easter Cake from Preppy Kitchen as your table centerpiece. The hardest part will be waiting until after the meal to cut into it! Whatever sweet treat you crave this holiday, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce can help you stock your baking cupboard with everything you need for a truly extraordinary Easter.

5. Easter Baskets

Easter baskets are one of our favorite time-honored holiday traditions. Something about sleepy-eyed, bed-headed kids (and adults) waking up to a basket filled with their favorite things, delivered by the Easter Bunny right to their front door brings back the magic of childhood. This Easter, make sure the magic comes to your doorstep by stocking baskets full of goodies you can find here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. For the kids, we have local fruit and candies, and for the grown-ups–wine, cheese, jelly and more! Come choose your own goodies, or call and have us curate your gift baskets for you!

6. Flowers

Finally, no Easter would be complete without flowers–our reminder that even the longest winters come to an end, and the world will be renewed again. Stop by and pick up a bouquet of fresh cut flowers to brighten your Easter table as a centerpiece or brighten a loved one’s day as a gift. Or if you’re interested in something a bit longer lasting, check out our gorgeous assortment of potted flowering plants. Leave a potted plant on a neighbor’s doorstep as a porch present, or buy some for your own home. Our live flowers will make your Easter extraordinary, indoors and out.

Treasuring the Time

Easter is a sign of change–the darkness of winter will dissipate, days will grow brighter and warmer, and whatever gloom has come before will not reign forever.  Now, more than ever, we need this reminder. In a string of days spent at home, it would be easy to let the holiday come and go without marking the occasion as a special one for yourself and your family. On the other hand, it could be a day full of thoughtful touches and intentionality that sets it apart not just from the days immediately preceding it, but from every Easter you’ve experienced before. This year, Easter is what you make it. Why not make it extraordinary?

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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