Posts tagged “recipes”

Here in the Pacific Northwest, fall vegetables are some of the best. The mostly mild winters mean a variety of cold-weather vegetables grow well. Squash like pumpkins and root vegetables like sweet potatoes are nutritious and tasty. And cooking during the cooler months usually revolves around warm comfort food! These veggies are easy to cook up for a healthy and satisfying meal or snack any day.

Fall Vegetables at Tacoma Boys

Fall vegetables like butternut squash, brussels sprouts, and potatoes might be first to come to mind. But there are a variety of other related vegetables to choose from. As far as cooking goes, “tubers” is a term for root vegetables like carrots and potatoes. These vegetables grow from the plants’ roots and otherwise underground. Many fall vegetables like tubers are hard and need to be cooked to a softer texture to be enjoyed. Gourds are similar: This species of vegetable includes squash like pumpkin. But some gourds are much too tough to eat — Decorative pumpkins in funky shapes might come to mind when you think of gourds. You can find these funky decorative gourds at Tacoma Boys, too!

Shop for an assortment of fall vegetables at Tacoma Boys, such as:

• Whole carrots
• Parsnips
• Sweet potatoes and yams
• Russet and red potatoes
• Brussels sprouts and cabbage
• Radish
• Beets
• Several varieties of squash

Squash Season

We all love a good summer squash like zucchini or crookneck squash. But the fall and winter seasons bring with it much more fall and winter squash! Cold weather squash has a hard exterior and can be cooked whole or peeled and chopped. Most squash is loaded with nutrients and have a sweet, nutty flavor. Many varieties contain vitamins, fiber, and protein. Depending on what you cook it with, squash can be quite a healthy side dish or snack. Same goes for squash seeds, too! Roasted pumpkin seeds are a popular snack after the carving is said and done. But any squash seed will roast well. Try roasting the seeds with Tacoma Boys Everything Bagel Seasoning or a basic blend of salt and black pepper.

Find these varieties of fall and winter squash at your local Tacoma Boys:

• Spaghetti squash
• Butternut
• Danish or acorn
• Delicata
• Kabocha
• Carnival

Pumpkins, including sugar pie pumpkins and Jack-O-Lantern pumpkins are considered squash, too!

Fall Recipes

There’s something comforting about getting cozy and cooking fall recipes. Rainy afternoons or holiday celebrations are perfect for such hearty food. Made with seasonal ingredients, fall recipes can consist of anything you want. From familiar favorites to creative new recipes, it’s a great time to get in the kitchen. While there are an infinite number of ways to cook fall vegetables, these basic fall recipes can get you started:

• Baked Sweet Potato Fries by Cookie and Kate
• Slow Cooker Pumpkin Soup by Cook It Real Good
• Maple Roasted Acorn Squash by Love and Lemons

Roasted Root Vegetables

While any of these fall vegetables are amazing when roasted, root vegetables are one of the simplest to prepare. This recipe for roasted root vegetables brings out the natural sweetness and flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 cups root vegetables, diced: This could be a mix of carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, beets, and more.
• 1 tbsp Chosen Foods Avocado Oil
• 2-3 tsp Tacoma Boys All Purpose Seasoning

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Alternatively, lightly grease the baking sheet with extra avocado oil.
2. Add the diced vegetables to a large bowl and drizzle with the avocado oil. Toss with a spatula to coat. Sprinkle with seasoning and toss again to coat. Spread the diced root vegetables in an even single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Transfer to the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping/tossing the vegetables halfway, until fork tender and browned. The amount of time will vary depending on the thickness and type of vegetable.

Autumn Harvest Salad

Try a new spin on your classic cold salad with warm roasted squash. Sliced apples and pomegranate are also in season. Plus, you can make use of any squash seeds you may have!

Ingredients – serves 2 

• 1 small squash of choice: Butternut, acorn, delicata, or kabocha.
• Lettuce of choice: Spinach, spring mix, butter lettuce, etc.
• 1 honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced
• Arils from 1 pomegranate
• ⅔ cup roasted pumpkin or squash seeds
• Apple cider vinaigrette

Directions

1. Roast the squash as directed in the roasted vegetable recipe above. Let cool for 2 minutes.
2. Assemble the salad: Lay a bed of lettuce on two serving plates. Top with the roasted squash and sliced apple. Sprinkle with pomegranate arils and pumpkin seeds. 
3. Drizzle with desired amount of dressing just before serving and enjoy!

Celebrate the commencement of the fall season with Tacoma Boys selection of fall vegetables and more. Stop by any time to check out an assortment of squash, gourds, tubers, and more! 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!

Since different colored fruits and vegetables provide a variety of nutrients, you should aim to eat the rainbow everyday! You should always aim to eat a variety of colorful produce that provide various nutrients for the whole family. Plus it can be fun to plan what different colored produce you will cook throughout the week! When you get creative with it, half of your plate can be a beautiful bright rainbow. These fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients and ready to boost your immune system.

Eat The Rainbow

Eat the rainbow by making sure you eat a variety of fruits and vegetables and in different colors. Think dark leafy greens, purple cabbage, blueberries, and an assortment of bell peppers. These different colored vegetables and fruits contain different vitamins and minerals. The colors also provide phytonutrients, which means extra antioxidants and immunity, too! Get the kids involved with the beautiful colors and they will be happy to eat the rainbow: One way is to give them a plate of colorful vegetables and have them build an edible rainbow. For more tips on how to get your kids to eat more vegetables, check out this blog by Crystal Karges.

When shopping to eat the rainbow, fresh or frozen produce is fine. The nutrients are there either way! Same goes for canned fruits or vegetables (just watch out for additives like sugary syrup or extra salt). Most of your grocery basket should be fruits and vegetables, so go for local, seasonal produce when you can. Learn more about how and why to eat local and seasonal on our blog here.

An Array of Colorful Produce

Step out of your comfort zone and try a variety of colorful produce to reap a variety of benefits! Enjoying multiple servings (5-10 servings daily is often recommended) of colorful produce every day is the foundation of healthy eating for many. They’re low in calories and can be cooked and eaten in so many different ways. The vitamins and minerals of multicolored produce are vast: Continue on to read about the nutritious benefits found in each color.

Red

Foods that are red in color are known for properties that may reduce cancer risk. They’re also associated with cardiovascular health and maintaining blood pressure. Look for red bell peppers, red berries, tomatoes, and beets.

Orange and Yellow

Eating carrots just might make you see better! Orange and yellow toned fruits and vegetables provide nutrients that support eye health. They’re also rich in vitamin C. Look for carrots, sweet potato, orange and yellow bell pepper, squash, oranges, and stone fruits like peaches and apricots.

Green

Greens are well known as being healthy and loaded with various nutrients. The phytonutrients in green produce support cell function and brain health. Look for broccoli, brussels sprouts, asparagus, avocado, kiwi, peas, and leafy greens like kale and spinach (rather than lighter colored greens like iceberg lettuce, which has much less nutritional value).

Blue and Purple

Antioxidants in dark blue and purple fruits and vegetables help prevent blood clots and build immunity. The acai berry comes to mind as one of these purple fruits that is rich in antioxidants: Also look for blueberries, blackberries, plums, eggplant, red cabbage, and more. Blue and purple produce also comes rich with nutrients that support heart health and reduce inflammation. 

White and Brown

White and brown fruits and vegetables might not look as exciting as other brightly colored produce. But they’re still full of wholesome nutrients and part of a well-rounded diet. Some of these nutrients are anti-inflammatory and overall important to human health. Look for onions, garlic, mushrooms, cauliflower, parsnips, and potatoes.

Colorful Meals are Delicious and Doable 

It’s easy to eat an abundance of colorful meals when you incorporate various fruits and vegetables into your diet. Even if you’re not used to eating colorful meals, it’s as simple as shopping for produce in every color. Nature makes it easy for us to get various nutrients in this way. Planning nutritious, colorful meals makes healthy eating enjoyable. Get creative with different colors and cooking methods! 

One way to ensure you’re eating the rainbow is to eat plenty of raw cut fruits and vegetables. Cut up a bunch of carrots, celery, cucumber, bell peppers, and cauliflower: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like Gnarly Garlic Dip or Tessemae’s Avocado Ranch and you’ve got every color of the rainbow covered! Same goes for snacking on raw fruits like apples, bananas, and berries. Keep it on hand for whenever you need a quick bite to eat. 

Try building a loaded salad with fresh spinach, red cabbage, cucumbers or other vegetables, Mezzetta Sun Dried Tomatoes, and your favorite Tacoma Boys salad dressing for a colorful, healthy meal. Salads are a quick route to eating the rainbow because you can customize it with whatever produce you have on hand. Same goes for a Simple Greek Pasta Salad: This recipe is loaded with colorful ingredients!

Shop the Rainbow at Tacoma Boys

Next time you’re looking for a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, stop on by Tacoma Boys. The specialty grocery store offers an assortment of fresh produce for nutritious meals. And an array of dressings, dips, seasonings, and ingredients available at Tacoma Boys ensures your meal will be tasty and complete. 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!

Hosting a Memorial Day barbecue in the backyard is a classic tradition for many in the U.S. It tends to mark the beginning of the summer and grilling season. Memorial Day is for remembering and honoring the Americans all throughout history who have lost their lives while serving the country. While respecting Memorial Day and those who have served, it’s often a day spent grilling good food, spending time with good company, and enjoying the warming weather!

Memorial Day Barbecue in the Backyard

It’s time to get ready for a meal at home with the family for a Memorial Day barbecue! This year, Memorial Day is May 31st, a perfect lead into June and the start of summer. The long weekend is often celebrated with camping, cookouts, and summer-centric foods cooked on the grill. Kick off grilling season by preparing your favorites and setting up the backyard for a fun and easy Memorial Day celebration. If you’re looking forward to a backyard barbecue this year, Tacoma Boys has just a few tips to make it an extra enjoyable experience! If you’re wanting an outdoor grill to put in your backyard, head here for some help when choosing outdoor kitchen appliances so that you can get started experiencing the joys of cooking in the open air.

Tips & Tricks

• Clean up your backyard ahead of time. Make it easy to set up by cleaning and preparing the area ahead of time. If you’ve got a lot of clutter in the backyard, consider getting a storage shed from Backyard Storage or elsewhere to store all of that and clear up the space. Oh, and it’s probably time to break out the lawn mower for the first trim of the season!
• Set up the grill. Ensure your grill is ready to kick off the summer season by checking your levels of propane or charcoal. Clean the grill and round up your tools (spatula, tongs, grill fork, oven mitts, etc.). For grilling pellets, try BBQR’s Delight Hickory Pellet Grill Fuel.
• Stock up on supplies. Tacoma Boys is your one-stop shop for all the food you need for a Memorial Day barbecue. Specifically, a huge selection of several condiments means you can add extra flavor and customize the meal! Try Stonewall Kitchen Roasted Garlic Aioli or Sweet Honey Mustard on your burger or with grilled potatoes. If you’re looking for other options for your diet, try Chosen Foods Vegan or Keto Mayo to start. If you like pickled foods, Tacoma Boys offers a variety of options like Pickled Garden Medley, Peppered Pickles, Pickled Okra, German Sauerkraut, and much more.
• Set up yard games and decor. If you have outdoor or Memorial Day-themed decorations, now’s the time to put them up! And yard games are a fun activity to pass the time while the food is cooking and to even sneak in some exercise.

Memorial Day Activities

When you dust off the grill and start planning your Memorial Day activities, there are a few things to keep in mind. Memorial Day is a great time to enjoy a backyard barbecue. But it’s also a time to participate in other activities to observe the holiday while still having fun kicking off the summer season. This Memorial Day, take some time out of your day with the family to commemorate the holiday and honor those who have lost their lives.

Observe National Moment Of Remembrance

The National Moment of Remembrance is when Americans take a moment at 3:00pm local time to remember those who have died in military service. It’s a simple minute of silence uniting the nation and honoring Memorial Day.

Crafts for Kids

With a day off work and school for many families, you may be looking for Memorial Day activities to do with your kids. Take a moment to teach the kids what Memorial Day is all about while crafting. Think red, white, and blue construction paper or meaningful poppies. Any time is a good time to get creative with the kids!

Outdoor Activities

Remember those yard games? To celebrate the start of summer, get active, and just have fun bonding with your family, grab some games. This could be horseshoes, cornhole, croquet, or even potato sack races! There are a variety of different creative yard games to choose from now.

Community Events

Many towns host parades, monuments, and events to celebrate Memorial Day and honor those who have served. Check in on your local community centers and city hall to see how your neighborhood is marking Memorial Day.

Barbecue Recipes

To get ready for an extraordinary backyard barbecue, plan a few barbecue recipes for Memorial Day. This could include classic cookout foods like grilled burgers and hot dogs, potato salad, chips and salsa, and fresh summer fruit. Grab some of Tacoma Boys pre-made burger patties like jalapeño pepper jack Kobe burgers or applewood bacon cheddar burgers. You could also try some of these barbecue recipes for Memorial Day:

• Grilled chicken or fish slathered with one of Tacoma Boys many barbecue and grilling sauces. Try Peach Chipotle Sauce, Smoky Maple Glaze, Horseradish Barbecue Sauce, Citrus Grilling Sauce, and much more.
• Seasonal grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, Walla Walla onions, and sweet corn.
• Greek Pasta Salad with feta cheese, cucumber, olives, chickpeas, and a balsamic dressing.
• Summer salad with radish, mixed greens, and parmesan cheese. Start with this recipe by Cooking Light.
• Grilled red potatoes: Simply slice into rounds, grease with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook on a hot grill for 10 minutes, until charred on both sides and fork tender. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup, mustard, and barbecue sauce.

Prep for Memorial Day at Tacoma Boys

Stop at Tacoma Boys for everything you need for a delicious Memorial Day weekend barbecue! 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!

One delicious way to enjoy the change of the season comes by way of bright and light spring cocktails. Fresh fruit, blooming florals, and earthy herbs are the backbone of good craft cocktails! That’s why spring is a great time to use those fresh seasonal ingredients for beverages. What sounds more relaxing than a sunny spring afternoon with a tasty and refreshing cocktail in hand!? These drinks reflect a change in season and spring produce. It’s easy to get creative with the foods and flavors available in the Pacific Northwest, like jam, elderberries, and local honey! These cocktails are super quick to mix up and a welcome addition to any brunch or al fresco dining experience. 

Quick & Easy Spring Cocktails

There are so many occasions to enjoy spring cocktails. Equipped with basic recipes and quality ingredients, you can be prepared to mix up fun and refreshing cocktails on a whim! Try these spring cocktails for a Sunday brunch, an afternoon of leisure on the back deck, or a dinner party with close friends or family. 

If you’re not one to mix up your own cocktail, Tacoma Boys offers a wide selection of pre-mixed cocktails and other libations. Along with beer and wine, you can also find hard cider, seltzers, kombucha, and more: 

• Rancho la Gloria Margarita Wine Cocktail in strawberry and traditional lime
• Hoxie Dry Wine Spritzer in peach blossom rose and grapefruit elderflower
• Stonewall Kitchen Sriracha Bloody Mary Mixer
• Jose Cuervo Strawberry Margarita Mix
• Stirrings Simple Mojito Mix

Tacoma Boy’s Favorite Spring Cocktail Recipes

These spring cocktail recipes take into account the new season with extra outdoor time and seasonal Washington ingredients. Using a mix of common barside staples and fresh fruit and herbs, you can perfect a number of spring cocktails. And thanks to Tacoma Boys selection of speciality food products, deluxe ingredients like rose water and pure fruit juices are easy to acquire.

Rosemary Gin and Jam Fizz

• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 2 oz gin
• Fresh lemon juice – about 1 oz
• 1 tbsp Nature’s Hollow Strawberry Jam \
• Sparkling water to top

Add the gin and rosemary to a cocktail shaker and muddle well (check out some tips for good muddling here!). Add the lemon juice, strawberry jam, and ice. Shake well, for about one minute, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water and garnish with another spring of rosemary and a strawberry, if desired.

Make it a mocktail: Nix the gin and muddle the rosemary with the lemon juice instead. Shake with the strawberry jam and a dash of water and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with extra sparkling water.

Lemon Ginger White Tea

• 1 oz white rum
• 2 oz Bigelow White Tea, brewed and chilled
• ½ oz Volcano Lemon Ginger Burst Juice
• ½ oz Spring Valley Honey

Combine and shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a serving glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel. 

Make it a mocktail: Simply forgo the white rum and enjoy!

Blended Basil Berry Margarita 

• ½ cup frozen Remlinger Farms Handpicked Berry Medley
• 5 basil leaves
• 2 oz tequila
• ½ oz triple sec
• 1 oz lime juice
• 2 tsp Wholesome Organic Raw Blue Agave

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a serving glass and garnish with fresh or frozen berries and basil leaves on top.

Make it a mocktail: Instead of tequila and triple sec, add a splash of orange juice to the blender.

Grapefruit Rose Cocktail

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 ½ oz R.W. Knudsen Organic Grapefruit Juice
• ½ oz Cortas Rose Water
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 2 dashes bitters 

Combine and shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a grapefruit wheel.

Make it a mocktail: Instead of vodka, bump up the rose water to 1 ounce and the grapefruit juice to 2 ounces. Combine in a cocktail shaker and strain. Top with sparkling water.

Washington’s Elderberry Apple Whiskey

• 2 oz whiskey
• 2 oz pure apple juice 
• 1 oz sour apple liqueur (schnapps)
• ½ oz Sylling’s Elderberry Syrup

Combine and shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a serving glass. If desired, garnish with an apple slice or wheel.

Make it a mocktail: Swap out the whiskey for a dash of extra apple juice. Instead of sour apple liqueur, use ½ oz sour apple flavored syrup.

Cocktails Made With Seasonal Produce

Living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, it’s not complicated to use local and seasonal produce to make your food and drink. You can craft delicious cocktails made with seasonal produce that will taste as fresh as the ingredients you use! It’s a good way to stay centered with nature and make use of readily available resources. And at Tacoma Boys, you’re sure to find the freshest local, seasonal produce.

For an overview on what’s coming into season in the Pacific Northwest and the benefits of eating seasonally, check out this guide by Simplicity Nutrition. Along with plenty of greens, several varieties of fruit and herbs are in season in the spring. For other food products, look to shop locally. Tacoma Boys offers a wide selection of locally made honeys, syrups, beverages, and more.

Swing on by!

Stop by to get the supplies you need to start celebrating spring with delicious cocktails! If you’re looking for a specialty product, just ask and one of our guides will be happy to help. And 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!

As we move further into the warm season, the opportunity for spring activities is finally here! For many people, this means getting active and venturing outdoors for exercise and fresh air. Whether that means hiking, biking, long walks, or simply a relaxing day at the lake, many are ready to enjoy the nice weather and seasonal activities regularly. But getting out of the house and springing into action means preparing and taking food along to keep you going.

Spring Activities for the Family

Some families and kids love to get really involved in spring activities with sports and more. It’s a great time to get kids outside and encourage healthy habits (like exercising and spending time in nature). Many families participate in such spring activities because it’s important to stay active and generally move your body in your free time! That’s why hobbies like biking, long walks, and sports like softball and soccer are so common in the springtime. But if you have an active family, you’re likely constantly looking for new ways to keep the energy up with healthy food as nourishment.

• When hiking, biking, kayaking, etc.: Go for finger foods and easy-to-eat snacks. This means cut vegetables, energy bars, nuts and seeds, and anything else that doesn’t require a fork or spoon. You can continue the activity without having to stop for a snack break or to sit down to eat.

• When picnicking, boating, watching sports, etc.: You could get a bit more creative with sit-down foods like salads, sandwiches and wraps, or something that requires two hands for dipping (like fruit and nut butter). Meal-prep ahead of time so you’re ready to go when you’re in the mood for more relaxed spring activities.

Snacks for Active Kids

It can be hard to come up with snacks for active kids at the last minute. It seems like they’re always hungry! But by keeping stocked on some staples, you can be sure to have food ready to go when you’re on the move or getting ready for those spring activities. Snacks for active kids and families should usually include fresh fruit or vegetables, fiber, and protein: Grabbing two or three ingredients in lunchbox-style snacking is quick and doable for many families. Some examples of this style of snacking include:

• Pear and Boar’s Head Gouda Cheese
• Apples and SunButter Sunflower Seed Butter
• Carrots, crackers, and Nomad Food Co. Hummus
• Berries and Ellenos Greek Yogurt
• Cucumbers, sliced turkey, and Northwest Delights Raw Almonds 
• Celery, Wonderful Pistachios, and Nancy’s Probiotic Cream Cheese
• Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps and Wholly Guacamole

Anything can be a snack if you keep moderation in check! It’s easy to start with whatever your kids enjoy and get more creative and healthy from there. For more ideas, browse Tacoma Boys blog all about healthy spring snacks.

Family Friendly Recipes for Any Time

When everyone is involved in the activity, you’ll need to have family friendly recipes that everyone will enjoy. This means making sure it’s something that everyone likes to eat that’s also nutritious and full of protein and fiber to keep you going throughout a busy day.  Plan family friendly recipes for when the whole family is out participating in spring activities as well as the end of an active day.

• Three Bean Salad by Little Spice Jar: Throw the salad in a jar for a super easy way to meal prep ahead of time and take things on the go!
• Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies by Gimme Delicious: Sheet pan dinners are popular because they are so easy to prepare and clean up. You can even cook everything ahead of time and throw the whole thing back in the oven when it’s time to chow down.
• Classic Italian Sub: This easy-to-make sandwich is a sure-fire way to please the kids and feel full and satisfied.
• Breakfast burritos: Make a batch of burritos with different fillings like eggs, potatoes, vegetables, and sausage. Fill them up and freeze for quick and easy reheating in the morning!
• Homemade trail mix: Tacoma Boys has everything you need for a homemade trail mix made your way, like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, chocolate chips, and more. Try a blend of almonds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and freeze dried strawberries for something new for the family to munch on.

Prepare For Spring Activities with Tacoma Boys

Whatever you and your family feel like doing to get active this spring, there are a variety of ways to stay nourished and healthy through food. It’s all about preparing ahead of time and having fun in the kitchen! For more inspiration and ideas, check out Tacoma Boys recipes and then stop on by to see what’s in store for you. And 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!

St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday to celebrate with kids. Themed crafts, green treats, and adventures with the family can get everyone in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit! The cultural holiday is celebrated by the Irish and others in part by feasting on traditional food. It’s a celebration of Irish heritage, as well as an opportunity to have fun cooking and sporting shamrocks! But to get the kids a bit more involved, there’s a few more things you can do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with Family

Many people have traditions with their families and friends for St. Patrick’s Day. Some communities will often hold St. Patrick’s Day parades to celebrate. And it’s certainly always a good time to dress in your best green gear. But this year, you may be looking for a few things to do at home with your family. Whether you are swapping out old traditions or adding to your plans, try these ways to celebrate at home with family.

• Get crafty: Put a spin on your kids’ favorite art activity with St. Patrick’s Day themes. Cut shamrocks out of construction paper, paint a pot of gold under a rainbow, or build a leprechaun with colored clay or blocks.
• Stage a treasure hunt: Let the kids loose in the backyard in search of clovers, something silver, and maybe even a hidden treat or two. Or, hide clues that lead to a nice big pot of gold.
• Sneak in some education: Learn and teach about Irish culture and the island of Ireland. If you celebrate more of the holiday, teach your kids about Saint Patrick and the history of St. Patrick’s Day.
• Cooking with kids: Cooking and eating together is a favorite St. Patrick’s Day activity for many families.

Cooking with Kids

Any day is a good day to start cooking with kids. Of course, it’s always a great opportunity for bonding and spending quality time together. But cooking with kids on St. Patrick’s Day can be extra special for a few reasons. You can introduce the family to new kinds of foods like Irish corned beef, cabbage, and apple tarts or other desserts. Tacoma Boys’ favorite way to make a quick and easy apple dessert is as simple as adding fresh green apples and butter to Concord Foods Apple Crisp Mix. Have some fun with green colored foods. Any chance to sneak some extra greens into your kids diet is definitely a win!

Start the day with Tacoma Boys’ McCann’s Irish Oatmeal topped with Northwest Delights Pepitas and Tacoma Boys’ Kiwi Slices. Or, blend up a smoothie with Tacoma Boys’ Frozen Berries, and Fresh Baby Spinach, and Almond Breeze Unsweetened Almond Milk for some green goodness.

Cooking with kids allows for great teaching moments: Make a math game out of measuring ingredients and practice counting. Or if your kids are a little older, allow them to learn by doing most of the cooking. Use art and science when baking and decorating cookies. It definitely won’t feel like learning! Chances are they’ll want to go green with frosting, sprinkles, and more.

Kid Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Recipes

Elevate your St. Patrick’s Day recipes with an array of green-colored foods to get your kids involved. It’s a great way to get them to eat some healthy food! And a fun time when they come up with their own ideas, too. These St. Patrick’s Day recipes are just a couple ways to have fun with cooking to celebrate. For dozens more kid-friendly St. Patrick’s Day recipe ideas, check out this list from Taste of Home.

• Clover shaped anything! With a clover-shaped cookie cutter or some smooth knife skills, you can cut your kids’ sandwich, cookies, sliced fruit, and more into the shamrock shape. Tacoma Boys’ has a wide selection of gluten-free bread, too, so no one will be left out of the fun-shaped sandwiches.
• Boil some of Mrs Miller’s Homemade Spinach Noodles and toss with Santini Pesto Genovese for an extra green kick. Serve with Tacoma Boys’ Panko-Breaded Chicken Cordon Bleu for a complete and satisfying meal.

• Throw together a green-themed charcuterie board with Tacoma Boys’ fresh sliced Deli Meats, Creminelli Italian Salami, Boars Head Havarti with Dill, Divina Green Olives, and crackers like Tacoma Boys’ French Baguette Chips. For a comprehensive guide on building the perfect charcuterie board, check out Tacoma Boys’ blog on charcuterie boards here.

Get Ready To Celebrate

Here at Tacoma Boys, we are excited to help you plan and execute your perfect St. Patrick’s Day with recipes that your kids can get involved in. Swing on by any location to gain even more inspiration for a fun holiday that the kids and family will love. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re looking for that one special ingredient! 

To stay up-to-date on the latest insider deals and specials, including seasonal produce, sign up for Tacoma Boys text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

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

The Benefits of Fresh and Local Dairy

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

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

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Local Dairy Products

Smith Brothers Farms

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

Our Favorite Smith Brothers Products

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

Grace Harbor Farms

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

Tacoma Boys’ Favorite Grace Harbor Farms Products

• Plain Kefir
• Vanilla Kefir

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

Cooking With Dairy

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

Breakfast

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

Lunch & Dinner

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

Dessert – Because we all need a treat sometimes!

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

Tacoma Boys’ Iced Vanilla Mocha

Ingredients

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

Directions

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

Tacoma Boys’ Blueberry Kefir Smoothie

Ingredients

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

Directions

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

Swing On In!

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

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

Affordable Healthy Eating is Accessible

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

Where Do I Start?

Plan Ahead

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

Produce, Produce, Produce!

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

Snacks

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

Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

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

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

Shop Pantry Staple Foods

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

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

Eggs

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

Affordable Healthy Recipes Made Easy

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

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

Grocery Shopping on a Budget with Tacoma Boys

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

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

We get it. The sun is setting at an atrociously early hour, the weather is inclement, and all of the holiday movies are streaming. These are nights for staying in, kicking back and donning your favorite flannel jammies. But you might also be exhausted from the holiday baking and want someone else to make your dinner. Thankfully, ordering off a restaurant menu is not the only way to enjoy a meal without cooking. A quick stop at Tacoma Boys and you can have a delicious, nourishing meal on the table with little to no prep. It’s basically a way to dine out in pajamas!

The “Take Out” Menu at Tacoma Boys

We know a little wander around our store will convince you that we care deeply about carrying the freshest local ingredients for all your culinary needs. Did you know we’ve put the same care into selecting the prepared and prepped foods we choose to carry? We’ve gathered a few of our favorite ready-made foods into a menu for you. Grab some of these menu items for a relaxing night, void of dinner prep.

Tacoma Boys House-Made Pizzas

Oven ready pizzas with a delectably thin crust are here at the ready. While you’re in the store grab your favorite beer and a bag of popcorn and you are all set for a movie night at home. Pop the pizza in the oven and cue up the movie!

Pesto Chicken with Sun-dried Tomatoes & Artichoke Hearts – Pepperoni – Combo

Patty’s Tamales

Made in the South Sound on Vashon Island, these Tamales are a perfect choice when you’re in the mood for Mexican food and want to support local. Grab some refried beans, corn tortilla chips, and salsa and you’ve got a complete meal that’s gluten free!

Beef – Chicken – Chorizo – Roasted Pepper & Cheese – Bean & Cheese – Vegan

Alaskan Grill & Dumplings

International comfort food at its finest, these authentic Russian dumplings, made locally in Auburn WA, are sure to hit the spot on a cold evening. Dumplings take very little time to cook. Simply boil gently for approximately 8 minutes, toss with melted butter, and season to taste. 

Beef – Beef and Pork – Potato & Cheese with Bacon

Beecher’s Mac & Cheese

The iconic cheesemaker Kurt Beecher first opened shop in Pike Place Market in Seattle and ever since, people have been craving that unmistakably creamy, Beecher’s Flagship Mac & Cheese. When the craving hits, you don’t need to hit I-5 and travel north, just hop into Tacoma Boys and pick up some Beecher’s from the freezer section.

Mac & Cheese – Smoked Flagship Mac & Cheese – World’s Best Mac & Cheese – Mariachi Mac & Cheese – Cheese Curd Lasagna

Rill Foods Dehydrated Soups

These robust, dehydrated soups made in Central Washington are a snap to put together and need very few extra ingredients. They do have a longer cooking time, but since prep is a cinch, you can get this going in the late afternoon, or early evening, and have a bowl of soup in your hands at dinner time. Check the back of the soup mix for any extra ingredients you need to pick up, and grab a loaf of sourdough or dinner rolls by Kalama Sourdough Bakery to complete the meal.

Manini’s Ravioli – Gluten Free

When Italian food is on the menu and you want something with a bit more flair than traditional spaghetti, this gluten free pasta option is a great fit. To make a simple sauce for pasta, toss with salted butter and season to taste. Or to kick it up a notch, saute mushrooms in butter and garlic, toss with the ravioli, and add a sprinkle of fresh parmesan. 

Portobello & Cheese – Spinach & Cheese 

Don’t Forget Dessert

Of course, to dine out in pajamas, you must include dessert! We’ve got quite a selection of desserts available, but you really can’t go wrong with a little pie and ice cream. Come check out the huge selection of frozen pies.

Local Ready-Made Pies

Cyrus Pies
Remlinger Farms Pies
Willamette Valley Pies
Raised Gluten Free Pies

Happy Pajama Dinner Time!

We hope you take us up on the chance to put those jammies on early and cue up a movie. With the dinner prep out of the way, you can nourish your body with a good meal, truly relax, and dine out in pajamas. For extra relaxation points (don’t worry, we really aren’t keeping score), pour yourself a glass of one of our favorite Rare Red Blend wine.

There’s still time to add some cheer to your holidays, but SHOP EARLY THIS SEASON – TREES ARE SELLING FAST!

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

How to Prepare for Your Virtual Holiday Bake Off

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

1. Send Out Online Invitations

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

2. Decide What to Bake

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

3. Set a Timer

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

4. Pick a Winner, Together

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

Holiday Baking Essentials

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

Flour

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

Sugar

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

Chocolate

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

Choose Your Christmas Treats

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

Recipe Options

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

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

• Cranberry Orange Swirl Cookies from Beyond the Kitchen Coop

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

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

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

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

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