As we reach the peak of sick season, it’s important to be fueling your body with immune boosting foods – especially this year! Consuming a well-rounded diet consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other immune boosting foods is a great way to help your body fight off the flu or any other infections. The Tacoma Boys list of favorite immune boosting foods is the perfect place to start when incorporating more of these foods into your daily diet.

Immune Boosting Foods & Why They’re Important

Before we tap into immune boosting foods, let’s cover our immune system, what it is, and how it works for us. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, our immune system is “a network of intricate stages and pathways in the body, that protects us against these harmful microbes as well as certain diseases. It recognizes foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, and parasites and takes immediate action.” 

There are many different factors that play a role in a healthy immune system; sleep, stress, age, chronic illness, diet, and more. Although diet is only one component of a healthy immune system, it is an important one. A diet lacking certain micronutrients, vitamins, and minerals can lead to chronic inflammation and a weak immune system. This is why immune boosting foods are important – they have naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help prepare your body to fight off any free radicals or unforeseen illness such as a common cold.

Fresh Local Produce

It should be no surprise that fresh local produce is on the list of immune boosting foods. All fresh and local produce have a wide variety of health benefits, and you can find a large selection of produce at your local Tacoma Boys.

Fruits

Citrus

Citrus is a common go-to food when people get sick due to its high Vitamin C content. According to Healthline, Vitamin C is known to increase white blood cells which are crucial for fighting infections. Some of the most common citrus fruits are:

• Oranges
• Grapefruit
• Lemon
• Lime

Berries

Berries are among some of the highest antioxidant-rich foods. From blueberries to strawberries, raspberries, and even blackberries, incorporating these into your diet is a great way to give your immune system a boost. 

Vegetables

There’s no denying that a diet rich in vegetables is beneficial all-around. Adding an abundance of various greens and other vegetables will aid in your vitamin and mineral intake. Try adding spinach to soup, spaghetti sauce, or a huge handful of mixed greens to a smoothie. There are many ways to incorporate these phytonutrient rich vegetables into your daily lifestyle. 

• Kale – high in fiber and a great source of Vitamin C, A, K, B6, and more
• Spinach – great source of iron, Vitamin C, K, A, magnesium, and more
• Mixed Greens – high in Vitamin A, C, beta-carotene, fiber, and more
• Red Bell Peppers – source of Vitamin C, A, and beta-carotene – according to Healthline, red bell peppers contain 3x more Vitamin C than a Florida Orange
• Broccoli – another high source of Vitamin C, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals

Aromatics

Aromatics are vegetables that add a depth of flavor to any dish. This can be spices, onions, garlic, and more. A lot of aromatics are packed full of nutrients which is why adding them to dishes is a great way to boost your food with additional vitamins and minerals.

Garlic

• Garlic is one of the most commonly used aromatics in the kitchen. But did you know that it packs a punch when it comes to nutrients? Garlic contains trace amounts of various vitamins and minerals and is loaded with Vitamin C, B6, manganese, fiber, and selenium. Adding extra garlic to soups when feeling unwell may have the ability to help your body heal faster.

Onions

• Similar to garlic, onions are found in many dishes and recipes. Onions are high in Vitamin C and flavonoids which are known to be similar to antioxidants. These help your body naturally fight off any unwanted sickness. 

Ginger & Turmeric

• Ginger and turmeric are both aromatics that have been used in alternative medicine healing for years. Both are known to help decrease inflammation and aid in immune health. Ginger and turmeric can be found in its whole root form, or you can buy it dried and ground in the spice section. Pair these aromatics with tea, smoothies, soups, and more. 

Fermented Foods

Fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, and more have been shown to aid in a healthy immune system. When foods are fermented they gain a load of healthy bacteria commonly known and probiotics. Fermented foods are great for gut health, and a healthy gut positively affects your immune system by boosting the ability to fight off infections and viruses.

Be Kind to Your Immune System

As we are in unprecedented times, it’s even more important to be kind to our immune systems and give them a little extra boost! When you pop into your local Tacoma Boys, take a look around at the fresh fruits, vegetables, fermented foods, aromatics, local honey, bone broth, and more. There are endless ways to add a variety of these foods into your already existing diet. If you have any questions while shopping or are looking for a specific immune-boosting item, don’t hesitate to ask one of Tacoma Boys’ workers – we’re here to help! 

During the colder months, we tend to trade in the fresh fruits and vegetables we associate with summer for the rich, hearty meals of winter. Soups laden with browned meats and plump beans are a true staple of our winter diets. Even though summer has come and gone, there are still plenty of fresh vegetables available, some still growing and thriving in the garden despite the cold temperatures. These fruits and vegetables are rich with vitamins and nutrients to keep us healthy through the winter, so why not dish out the nutrients with a vitamin rich side dish using our winter recipe roundup? 

To make adding a vitamin packed side dish to your meal a cinch, we’ve gathered some of our favorite, simple fall vegetable, side dish recipes for you to try.

Leafy Greens & Brassicas

Many sturdier greens thrive in the garden through Pacific Northwest winters. Kale, swiss chard, and collard greens are among the sturdy greens that keep growing right on through the winter and are available fresh in our markets. 

Kale

Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, K, B vitamins, calcium, manganese, potassium, and magnesium. It’s no wonder kale makes the short list for power packed veggies. It is also loaded with antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory effects. 

On the Menu:

Easy Massaged Kale Salad

Kale Pesto with Whole Wheat Pasta

Swiss Chard

Swiss Chard is packed with vitamins A and K. Just one cup fulfills your daily recommended intake of both vitamins.

On the Menu:

Wilted Chard with Shallots and Vinegar

Risotto with Swiss Chard, Radishes, & Lemon

Brussel Sprouts

Brussel Sprouts are especially high in vitamins C and K. They are also one of the best plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

On the Menu:

Fried Brussels Sprouts

Perfect Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Red Cabbage

The bright color of red cabbage comes from pigments called anthocyanins, which, in simple terms, translates to loads of antioxidants that promote a healthy immune system. Red cabbage is easy to add to a meal. Slice and use in the place of lettuce on your tacos, add to a green salad for extra color and nutrients, or mix it up in this delicious and fresh winter slaw.

On the Menu:

Winter Rainbow Slaw

Braised Red Cabbage with Apples

Winter Squashes

Pumpkins are not just for jack-o-lanterns, though we do love a skillfully carved toothy grin. Loaded with beta carotene, vitamin C and E, iron and folate, pumpkins and other winter squashes offer support for vision and promote immune health. 

Pumpkin

On the Menu:

Savory Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin Apple Quick Oats

Pumpkin Spread

Kabocha Squash

On the Menu:

Roasted Kabocha with Maple Syrup & Ginger

Paleo Creamy Kabocha Squash Mash

Delicata Squash

On the Menu:

Parmesan Crusted Delicata Squash

Roasted Delicata Squash

Root Vegetables

High in fiber and in vitamins C and A, as well as potassium, root vegetables are an easy choice to add to your winter diet. Many root vegetables are excellent for longer storage, so you can stock up and be sure to have them on hand, when you get the craving.

Beets

On the Menu:

Maple Orange Roasted Beets and Carrots

Balsamic Roasted Beet Salad

Carrots

On the Menu:

Simple Roasted Carrots

Hummus Dip for Sliced Carrots

Parsnips

On the Menu:

Parsnip & Potato Mash

Parsnip Ecrasse

Sweet Potatoes

On the Menu:

Slow Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Crispy Sweet Potato Roast

If you need even more inspiration to add a little vitamin goodness to your winter menus using fresh, local, seasonal ingredients, check out our Guide to Local Seasonal Eating or ask one of our amazing produce specialists what seasonal fruits and vegetables they particularly enjoy.

What’s not to love about fall? The leaves change colors, the weather cools down, and best of all, you get to indulge in your favorite fall treats. Tacoma Boys is a big fan of seasonal sweets which is why we have put together this guide to our favorite fall treats! Indulging in treats that have all of fall’s favorite flavors and seasonal produce is a favorite pastime. From apples to pears, caramel, figs, and of course, pumpkin spice and everything nice.

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Fall Treats

Lucky for you, Tacoma Boys carries a wide variety of fall treats. These include: baked goods, candy, yogurt, syrups, popcorn, and more. The array of favorite fall treats will last you the entire season and are perfect for holiday parties, family movie nights, hosting and more.

Baked Goods for the Fall Win

There’s just something about baking during a new season that brings so much warmth into the household. Whether it’s the glorious smell while a pie is baking, the smile on kids’ faces when they see their favorite seasonal sweets, or simply the joy that comes from pouring love into baked goods. It’s one of Tacoma Boys’ favorite seasonal activities! Baked goods have a way of bringing family and friends together which is something you can’t beat.

Cyrus O’Leary’s Pumpkin Pie

If you’re looking for a great pumpkin pie but don’t have the time to whip one up from scratch, Cyrus O’Leary’s is a great option. These pies have won 168 first place awards at the National Pie Championships! They can be found in Tacoma Boys’ freezer section so you can easily store in your freezer at home until ready to eat. The best part? All you have to do is allow the pie to thaw in the fridge for 24 hours, slice, and serve! We suggest topping it with some fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend this pumpkin pie recipe by the Modern Honey. 

Flax 4 Life Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Nothing beats the combination of apples and cinnamon, and these muffins are no exception! Flax 4 Life muffins are great for those with a gluten allergy or dairy allergy. In addition to being gluten free and dairy free, these muffins are high in fiber, omega 3’s, and pack the ultimate flavor punch. They are a great grab n go breakfast option along with freshly brewed coffee. They also make the perfect snack for you or your kid’s lunches. Did we mention they taste amazing?! 

Chuckanut Bay Salted Caramel Cheesecake – Tacoma Boys Style

Salted caramel is one of our favorite fall flavors. Although it can be considered a year-round flavor, Tacoma Boys is a big fan of pairing it with cinnamon, pumpkin, apples, and more. These mini cheesecakes are found in the freezer section and can be easily thawed. If you’re feeling adventurous, we suggest topping these bad boys with freshly caramelized fruit. Below is a simple recipe to give this cheesecake the ultimate fall flare. 

Spiced Caramelized Apples

Ingredients – to top one mini cheesecake 

• 1/2 apple – thinly sliced – see our fall apple guide here
• 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg

Directions

1. Heat a small saucepan over medium heat and add the maple syrup, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Once melted, lower the heat to medium low and add your apples. 
3. Allow to cook for 10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes until apples are softened. 
4. Allow to cool if desired and pour over Chuckanut Bay Salted Caramel Mini Cheesecake.

Seasonal Sweets for the Soul

Although baked goods may be hard to beat, Tacoma Boys is stocked with additional seasonal sweets that are oh so good for the soul. 

Fall Family Fun

Concord Fresh Success Caramel Apple Wrap

Who doesn’t love a good caramel apple?! These caramel apple wraps are a great way to get kids involved in making their own treats. The package comes with five wraps and is easy to assemble – and eat! 

Pamela’s Baking & Pancake Mix 

Tacoma Boys carries a large variety of pancake mixes, but this one is a favorite! It’s gluten free, but you wouldn’t be able to tell. Making pancakes is another fantastic family activity. Tacoma Boys’ fall pancake tip – top them with Tacoma Boys Apple Cinnamon Syrup – you won’t regret it!

For the Fall Munchies

Everyone gets the munchies every now and then which means you should be stocked with your favorite fall treats! Tacoma Boys top fall snacks are: Purely Elizabeth Pumpkin Cinnamon Granola, Seneca Caramel Apple Chips, Tacoma Boys Golden Caramel Corn Nuggets, and of course, Ellenos Pumpkin Real Greek Yogurt.

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!

Fall is finally upon us! For some, that means bring on the pumpkin spice lattes and cardigans. For others, it means a slow, sad goodbye to the last rays of summer. Whatever camp you’re in, we hope you can enjoy–or at least be consoled by–the advent of comfort food season. Yes, that’s right! With the gradual decline in temperature from now through February comes the joys of filling our bellies with a warm bowl of hearty chili, your mom’s famous chicken pot pie, or a roast you’ve been crock-potting all day.  But wait! Fresh fruits and veggies are still popping up out of the not-yet-frozen soil and falling off still-green trees! And with that, we have the best of both worlds. We would argue it’s fall’s favorite fruit: the apple. 

And if you, like us, are a fan of the apple…well you’ve come to the right place. Both figuratively and literally. If you’re in Washington (as we suspect you are), you’re in the top apple-producing state in America. I don’t know if you know this, but we’re kind of a big deal. In fact, 58% of America’s apples are grown right here in your own backyard. You read it right. That’s more than half. With all these apples growing great in your own state, there’s no reason to ever eat an apple from elsewhere. Lucky for you, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have the skinny on all the best locally grown apples and a few suggestions on how to have them. 

First, let’s talk types. If you hear “Granny Smith”, “Jazz”, and “Lady Alice” and assume we’re talking about your neighbor’s Tuesday morning bridge club, you’re not alone. But alas, they’re actually the names of a few of the 7,500 varieties of apple in the world. It’s a lot of information to sift through. So here’s a quick guide to some of the varieties you’ll see on our shelves. 

Our Favorite Fruit in Many Forms

Honeycrisp

You’ll know it’s a Honeycrisp as soon as you bite into it. Crisp and juicy, we love Honeycrisp for its distinctly sweet-but-not-too-sweet flavor. Perfect to eat all by itself or chopped up on a salad. Swing by Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce this week and get a great deal on a 20lb bag! With an apple so versatile, you’ll be glad you did!

Gravenstein

Graventstein is one of the oldest varieties of apples. It harkens from Europe, although the specifics are unclear. This variety is known for its exquisite flavor. It’s one of our favorite fruit because it makes great applesauce and desserts. Gravenstein is considered a high quality apple variety and has been celebrated in festivals and fairs all its own. 

Fuji

These hail originally from Japan (named after Mt. Fuji). Their fantastic crisp and sweet flavor have made them a favorite go-to snack for years. You’ll recognize them by their mostly red coloring with just a touch of yellow and/or green.

Golden Delicious

This mild little cutie is a delightful yellow-to-green color with freckles for good measure. Just a little bit sweet and not too tart, it’s easy on the taste buds and doesn’t like to make waves. Great for snacking! Or mix them with apples that have a little more tartness and bake into a pie. 

A Few Ways to “Fall” in Love with Apples

Apple Walnut Salad

Start with a spring mix, preferably one with spinach and arugula. Then, add cranberries, walnuts, and chopped apples (honeycrisp is a great choice for this salad). Finally, toss in the dressing of your choice. We recommend Brianna’s Homestyle Blush Wine Vinaigrette from our dressing aisle. Serve as a side salad with pork chops, or add chopped chicken to it to make an entree salad!

Ooey Gooey Caramel Apples

Is it really fall if you don’t sink your teeth and get them stuck in the stickiest, messiest treat around? You may think of it as “hard to eat,” but we think of it as a rite of passage. This recipe from Just a Taste calls for Granny Smith apples and strikes the right balance of easy and fun. Swing by our candy aisle for topping ideas (Hint: Seattle Chocolate’s “Mexican Hot Chocolate” bar, chopped into tiny pieces so it sticks). Go ahead, take a bite out of fall. 

Classic Apple Pie

Are you so excited to spend hours peeling, coring, and chopping apples? More power to you! But for the rest of us who love America’s favorite dessert but aren’t down for the prep time, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce has just the thing. Swing by our freezer aisle, and pick up a bag of frozen Granny Smith Apples from Remington Farms. Grown right here in Washington and frozen at peak ripeness, these delicious apples are already skinless, seedless, cut and waiting to be thrown in a pie. Nobody will guess you didn’t do it yourself and we won’t tell! Try this recipe from Taste of Home and wow your friends and family with your domestic prowess. 

One Tree Cinnamon Caramel Hard Cider

Ok, so it’s a bit of a jaunt from the produce aisle. But One Tree cidery uses Washington apples to produce a cider that’s absolutely perfect for fall. Seriously, it’s like apple pie in a bottle. Looking for more fall flavors? While you’re perusing our cider aisle, check out Whitewood’s “Gravenstein” Cider and 2 Towns Ciderhouse’s “Easy Squeezy.”

Find All Your Favorite Fruit at Tacoma Boys!

If you’re a local looking for Washington’s favorite fruit done right, look no further than Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. We’re lovers of all things local, especially our local farmers and apple producers. So swing by today and buy the best apples Washington has to offer.

You’ve likely heard the term “locally grown” boasted in the produce aisles and farmers markets you love. And maybe you’ve wondered what the big deal is, besides a general confidence that anything grown in Washington must be a little better. Well, that’s probably true, but there are actually a lot of great reasons to buy quality local produce. As your local produce experts, we’re here to tell you what the hype is about. And once you know, you’ll be as excited as we are to see those two little words–”locally grown”–throughout our produce section. 

4 Reasons to Buy Locally Grown Produce

1. Fresher Produce. 

As great as Washington is at growing things, the key is actually proximity. It’s simple. The less time between when you pick the produce and when you eat it, the better. So when you buy produce close to home, you’ve saved that time and eliminated the need for long transport. When you buy local produce at Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce, you’re consuming fresher fruits and veggies. 

2. Better Nutrition. 

When you buy local, you’re eating produce that doesn’t need as much help with preservation. This means the growers of your produce don’t need to treat it with as many chemicals to keep it fresh in transport. In addition to this, local produce can grow to peak ripeness and doesn’t need to be harvested early, so it tastes better and is more nutritionally dense.

3. Environmentally Friendly. 

Farmers who grow your food nearby don’t have to worry about freezing, packaging, or shipping produce. All of these processes require energy, create waste, and are hard on the environment. When you keep it simple by shopping for Washington grown food, you’re keeping bad stuff out of the environment, and that’s good for all of us. 

4. Support Your Local Economy.

We at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce take pride in supporting local farmers. When you shop local, you’re putting money into the pockets of hard working farmers who live and work near you. Your support means Washington farmers can keep providing us with fresh produce year after year. 

What’s In Store?

Right now, at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, you’ll find a wide variety of fruits and vegetables grown right here in Washington state. We’ve rounded up a few we think you should try this week. Keep in mind, shopping locally often means eating seasonally. In other words, enjoy what’s growing now, because the season is almost over!

Fresh Blueberries

Why: Often considered a superfood, blueberries always sweeten the deal. They’re packed with antioxidants and make a great addition to smoothies, salads, and deserts alike. 

How: Try them in this Blueberry Buckle recipe from Spend with Pennies as a stellar cap to any summer evening. 

Juicy Peaches

Why: A great source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, peaches contain no fat and make for a sweet summer treat. Kids love them and they’re as convenient as it gets!

How: Fresh peaches make this Tennessee Peach Cobbler a dream. Enjoy with ice cream for a peaches’n’cream vibe.

Seedless Watermelon

Why: Mostly water, watermelon is a great way to stay hydrated as we soak in the last of the summer heat. They’re also packed with Vitamins–specifically Vitamins A, B6, and C, so enjoy summer’s best snack and stay healthy at the same time!

How: No need to get fancy. Grab a melon, slice it in half and enjoy! Or check out this tutorial for a fresh take.

Sweet Corn

Why: Besides being delicious and fun to eat right off the cob (except to our brace wearing friends…sorry, guys!), corn is a great source of Vitamins B9, B1 and C. 

How: We can not recommend this recipe for Mexican Street Corn from Food with Feeling highly enough! Break out the grill for one last summer hoorah. Top with all the amazing creamines of cotija cheese, and you really can’t go wrong. 

Green Zucchini 

Why: We all know zucchini to be delicious and nutritious, but the world is starting to discover just how versatile it is. From muffins to “zoodles,” the possibilities are endless. So grab a few fresh, local zucchini from Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce today, and try them all the ways!

How: You will not regret frying up some of these amazing Zucchini Fritters from Damn Delicious. Crunchy and satisfying, you (and your kids) won’t even know you’re eating veggies.

Vine Ripe Tomatoes

Why: Of all the produce that’s better fresh, nothing beats a local, vine ripe tomato. According to healthline, “Tomatoes are the major dietary source of the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.”

How: The ultimate summer appetizer (or side salad), this Caprese Salad from the Kitchn balances zesty balsamic, juicy tomato, and mild fresh mozzarella. Showcase the perfection of summer tomatoes with this fantastic summer dish!

Say Goodbye to Summer with Tacoma Boys

These are just to name a few! To see our vast array of quality local produce, swing by today. Just look for “locally grown” on our signs, or ask a friendly store associate to point you in the right direction. As summer comes to a close, say goodbye to the last and best of Washington’s summer produce.

It’s an unfortunate truth that big chain stores just don’t have the kind of specialty ingredients that food-lovers need to make the best-tasting recipes.  They carry the basic items for the average meal.

If you’re looking for gourmet specialty foods or that hard to find fresh and unique ingredients you’ve been looking for, then you’ll need to stop by Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce specialty food store and find ingredients that you can’t get anywhere else.

Keep reading to find out how to shop for all of your grocery needs and specialty food items at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce.

1. Find the Nearest Location

For your convenience, Tacoma Boys has three locations in wonderful Pierce County, Washington.

Our location closest to the densest urban core, of course, can be found in Tacoma, Washington, but we also have locations in Puyallup and Lakewood.

Whether you’re taking a car, a bus, or a stroll, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce has 3 convenient locations near you.

2. Don’t Always Stick to Your List

At Tacoma Boys, you could easily happen upon something you’ve never seen or heard of before.  Especially if you allow yourself to consider taking a few extra seconds to browse the aisles.

Consider dozens of options for unique honey or pepper jelly.  Or pork crown roast and fresh local pears.  Or even gluten free donuts and edemame pasta.  Thousands and thousands of amazing items!

The hunt for something new and the mystery could very well lead to something that can become the secret ingredient in your soon-to-be-famous dish.

There are so many wonderful specialty items waiting to be discovered and tasted at Tacoma boys that you should always be ready for something new and exciting.

3. Bring Reusable Bags

Did you know that Americans go through around 100 billion plastic bags every year?  And they are now against the law in Tacoma.

If you want to know how to buy groceries the sustainable way, you should invest in one or more reusable bags, depending on the number of groceries you usually buy.

It’s always great to do what we can for the environment. Instead of coming home with a bunch of plastic bags, you can use several high-quality bags again and again.  And Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce not only have fabric bags, but fabric bags with a liner to keep all of your chilled items at proper temperature all the way home.  Plus, our bags are just cool looking and show your support for local small business!

4. Check Out Our Weekly Specials

If you want to save on artisan specialty foods and more, then you should also keep track of the weekly specials that Tacoma Boys has.  Sign up for our email newsletter to be notified each week!

From Wednesday to Wednesday, you can expect to find some amazing deals that can save you money, but more importantly, maybe even give you some ideas about what to eat during the week.

For example, you might be able to find delicious and crunchy Gala apples for only 79 cents per pound. If you’re a seafood fanatic, you might find wild lobster tails for less than 10 dollars each. Plus, any meat-lover will do a little dance if they find out that Angus New York steaks are less than 9 dollars per pound (season depending of course).

In order to complement the beautiful and delicious meals that you’ll put on your table, you can also get attractive flowers from Tacoma Boys to make a gorgeous centerpiece. For example, we currently have locally grown cut flowers in hand made bundles starting at only $10.

When it comes to our weekly specials, you can expect to always be pleasantly surprised.

Are You Ready to Go Shopping for Groceries?

Now that you know how to go shopping for groceries and specialty food items at Tacoma Boys, you can get ready to make one of the most delicious meals you and your loved ones have ever tasted.

If you have any questions about our world-class products, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help.

We all know having a balanced, fruit and vegetable diet is important, right? After all, that’s what our parents always told us. However it seems most folks never took this advice to heart.

According to the USDA, we need 2.5 cups of veggies and 2 cups of fruit per day. However, the average American only consumes about 1.6 cups of veggies and 1 cup of fruit. How do fruits and vegetables fit into your diet plan?

Fruits and veggies contain all kinds of useful minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. They reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and can help your waistline. They can also be a great source of fiber.

That said, many of us struggle with maintaining a fruit and vegetable diet. If you belong in this group, here are 5 ways to enhance your fruit and veggie diet.

1. Change Your Approach

Change the way you think about fruits and vegetables.

All too often people associate fruit and vegetable diets with a bad experience, maybe from as far back as childhood. For example; They may associate sliced tomatoes with a slimy tomato they got on a stale sandwich or corn with salty canned corn served at their grandma’s house in the eighties.

The truth is, fruits and vegetables are amazing when selected and served correctly!

Instead of shopping for canned vegetables, buy them fresh from your local produce market. If you have any questions make sure to ask the employees.

At Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce we pride ourselves in a staff that is ready answer your questions and offer suggestions.

Click to find out what’s in season.

Find new ways to serve your fruits and vegetables. Sliced, sautéed or baked with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Discover the variety of colors available with a fruit and vegetable diet. It’s truly amazing how a colorful meal can inspire a meal for friends and family.

Whether shopping for tonight’s dinner for one or a family’s meals for the week, think about which fruits and/or veggies would taste good with it. As you experiment and try different options, you will find the preferences of you and those around you.

2. Take It to the Road

Some of us get hungry while we’re out running errands or on the way home. This is a perfect opportunity to add another serving of fruits and vegetables into your diet!

Remember to pick convenient on-the-go snacks. Some good examples include baby carrots, blueberries, and celery sticks. Having a small container of almonds or walnuts is a shrewd choice that stores well and adds protein to your daily snacking.

The next time you are shopping at your local Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce, look into our dried vegetable and fruit options. Banana Chips and Wasabi Peas are age old favorites.

Fun Fact: Peas are not actually vegetables. Can you guess what they are?

Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have an amazing selection of bulk food items. Dried fruit, nuts, candy and more!

3. Be Ready

You are more likely to eat vegetables if they’re at hand, washed and ready to eat. There are a few ways to go about this.

You can buy pre-cut, pre-washed veggies, or you can chop them yourself.

How to cut fruits and vegetables the right way.

No matter which option you choose, your vegetables should always be stored in your fridge, ready for munching.

Think about what containers you use and where you place your vegetable snacks so that they are easily accessible.

While prepping your healthy snack time options, place a container of hummus or low-fat ranch near by. Having such dipping options handy will only increase your likelihood to maintain a solid fruit and vegetable diet.

4. Drink Your Fruits and Veggies

Processed juices are not a good way to increase your fruit intake. They are often high in sugar, low in key nutrients and honestly don’t tastes as good as freshly made juice. Instead, try making juices and smoothies on your own!

We often think of fruit when referring to juices and smoothies, but vegetables can be a healthy and delicious ingredient as well. Find fun ways to combine both fruits and vegetables depending on what’s in season and your desired end result.

Click here for vegetable juicing ideas.

You can often purchase vegetable smoothies off the shelf at your neighborhood grocery store, or you can make them on your own.

Click here for vegetable smoothie ideas.

Also, consider adding some other items to your smoothies. Avocados, almonds, and chia seeds are all a great fit. These foods add some healthy fats and nutrients while enhancing the fruity taste.

Beetroot smoothie in glass with ginger and fresh vegetables on wooden background

5. Find Your Favorites

With such a wide variety of fruits and veggies out there, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a handful you like. Once you have a couple of favorites, keep buying them.

By understanding your preferences and exploring the foods you like, you’ll be more likely to stick to your diet. There are so many different recipes and ways to prepare each fruit and vegetable.

That said, it would do you good to leave your comfort zone once in a while. After all, experimenting with new options is the easiest way to find a new favorite. It may be that you don’t care for fresh tomatoes, but absolutely love them sautéed or sun-dried! Maybe boiled or steamed broccoli has never been your thing, but baked with a little olive oil, salt and pepper is!

More on a Fruit and Vegetable Diet

Considering all the benefits of a fruit and vegetable diet, it’s a wonder why so many people choose to ignore it. Thankfully, it’s never too late to change your ways and increase your fruit and veggie intake.

Not sure where to get fresh produce in Tacoma, WA? You can always visit one of our three stores. We’ve got a great selection of fruit and vegetables at affordable prices!

We’re all guilty of opting for a bag of chips from the office vending machine, when we could have planned ahead with more nutritious snacks like a vegan cookie. While the occasional splurge won’t hurt you too much, we should be wary of how to handle that 3 p.m. urge for calories. Maybe consider some different kinds of vegetable snacks to satisfy your hunger, while keeping your health in mind.

Junk food takes an enormous toll on our bodies, from promoting obesity to increasing blood pressure levels. In fact, 13.5 million children worldwide now have an impaired glucose tolerance, which is a precursor to diabetes.

Our solution to combat cravings is to replace unhealthy snacks with healthy alternatives. Here is a list of delicious vegetable snacks for those who are on the go!

1. Kale Chips

No one ever said you had to do away with your favorite salty treat altogether at all. Kale chips are the perfect replacement for regular potato chips. They are flavorful, easy to make, and have under half the calories of their fried alternatives.

To make your own kale chips, start with some basic prep work. Remove the stem, wash your kale, and preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

Next, tear your kale into roughly 4-inch pieces. Then wash your kale with a colander.

Place the drained and dried kale onto a baking sheet. Drizzle some olive oil over the top. Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the “chips” and bake for 5 minutes. Voila!

2. Hummus Toast

Here’s a spin on a modern brunch classic. Hummus is a vegetarian friendly spread made from chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, garlic and spices. It is a great source of protein, iron and fiber. Fiber tends to expand in your stomach, making you feel full longer.

Making hummus toast is simple. Lather some toast with your favorite hummus. Get your veggie fill by adding in some fun ingredients, like cucumbers, peppers and/or tomatoes. Here are some ideas to get you started!

If hummus isn’t your thing, avocado will certainly do.

3. Stuffed Peppers

These spicy meat-filled snackers aren’t usually associated with being healthy. But they are delicious. You can certainly make your own small tweaks to this classic appetizer and make it more nutritious.

Fill a large peppadew with chopped meat such as bacon or salami along with some parmesan or mozzarella cheese. Alternatively — if you can handle the spice – try stuffing a slice of Coastal cheddar inside a Jalapeno pepper.

Some healthy options might include substituting the bacon or salami with lean, seasoned ground beef. Seasoned rice and/or beans can also make for a healthy alternative filling.

4. Beet Hummus

Beet hummus contains all of the basic ingredients as regular hummus, along with the addition of one large beet.

Roast a large beet then blend it with a food processor. Add in chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon, paprika, and cumin.

Beets are a great source of fiber, folate and vitamin c. They are also thought to help lower blood pressure and improve athletic performance among other potential benefits.

Get the full recipe here.

5. Veggies and Peanut Butter

What seems like just a way to get kids to eat their green turns out to be a great quick energy snack!

Take your favorite veggie. Dip it or slather it in some peanut butter and you have a delicious, fresh, protein packed snack! Carrots and celery are maybe the most common vegetable used with peanut butter, but nothing is stopping you from experimenting with peppers, cauliflower or even broccoli.

“Ants On a Log” is a a fun treat for kids and adults alike . Simply take some celery stalks, fill the gap with peanut butter, then line the peanut butter with raisins. This is a fun recipe that kids can easily take part in preparing.

6. Cucumbers and Hummus

While we are on the subject of dipping veggies, let’s take a good look at cucumbers and hummus! Cucumbers have a natural, refreshing quality that balances well with the fibrous, protein laden texture of hummus.

Serve this snack with a dollop of hummus on each slice, or as a plate of cucumber slices with a side of hummus. Mix it up with other dipping options like bell peppers, carrots or celery.

7. Cauliflower Pizza Dough

There are so many fun and amazing ways to substitute popular dishes with vegetable variations. More and more people are becoming aware of gluten intolerance which can take away their favorite dishes.

Thankfully there are crafty people out there who are mixing things up a bit to solve this problem. In the process everyone seems to win, as new healthy options are being developed all the time!

Cauliflower pizza dough is one such creation. Pick yours up today at your local Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce.

8. Avocado Everything Toast

While it’s fair to say that avocados are more of a meal than a snack, you know we couldn’t finish the list without at least one avocado recipe. Try this snack option on either a piece of toast or spread out to multiple crackers.

For our snacking purposes we will choose some Wasa light rye flatbread. Rye actually helps you feel full, while the flatbread is a great light alternative to thick slices of toast. Slice and spread your avocado as you see fit. On top of the avocado, sprinkle some homemade Everything But The Bagel Seasoning.

Local Produce for Your Vegetable Snacks

Getting into healthier eating habits doesn’t have to be too difficult. It also doesn’t need to cost you an arm and a leg.

You can find all the produce you need for your vegetable snacks right here at Tacoma Boys! Plus, we also offer a number of things you won’t find at your regular grocery store. Curious as to what we’re talking about?

Check out one of our three locations today! Also, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.