We hate to face it, but the end of the summer is upon us. This doesn’t mean we can’t serve up some summertime meals, still! This week we are grilling up pork chops and chicken wings, perfect for any occasion!
Grilled Pork Chops
Market 32 Boneless Center Cut Pork Chops
Market 32 Deli Salads (Buy one get one FREE!)
PICS Applesauce
Shop for Grilled Pork Chops here!
Grilled or Baked Chicken Wings
Rio Star Frozen Chicken Wings
Market 32 Deli Salads (Buy one get one FREE!)
Market 32 Carrots
Market 32 Celery
Buffalo Wild Wing Sauce
Shop for Chicken Wings here!
Looking for a different take? Check out the recipes below!
Cranberry-Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
Grilled Tex-Mex Wings with Jalapeño-Ranch Dip
International Blues Music Day!
Tyler Blance
Manager of Digital Marketing
There are lots and lots of national days, weeks, months and more on the world’s calendar, but few are as exciting as this one: International Blues Music Day. Let’s celebrate with some blues (and food) talk!
If you’re not already familiar, blues is a music genre that originated in the United States in the 1860s, specifically amongst African-Americans in the Deep South. A favorite genre of mine, ‘The Blues’ comes in many forms: Mississippi Delta Blues, Chicago blues, gospel blues, folk blues, swamp music, and lots more. This style of music has influenced almost every form of American music that has followed it or developed alongside it: jazz, rock & roll, hip hop and more: even ‘screamo’, a unique genre that has held a special place in my heart since middle school. Chances are, your favorite song or artist has the blues to thank for its existence!
There are many names associated with the blues, each of them incredible in their own right: Since you’re reading the blog of a local supermarket chain, I thought it’d be appropriate here to take a quick peek into the appetites and tastes of some of the genre’s iconic figures.
Howlin Wolf, legendary for his booming voice alone, a pioneer of ‘electrifying’ the blues from its acoustic origins and an influential figure in the structuring of songs into verse-chorus-verse structure, was big on food: he once stated that he had eaten more chicken than any man had ever seen.
One of my favorite blues musicians, Muddy Waters, was not only an incredible musician: he could throw down in the kitchen! Muddy’s family shares stories of his love for cooking (and eating) spicy food: try your hand at some Grilled Cajun Pork Tenderloin if you’re in the mood for some flavor from America’s blues music homeland.
One of the most well-known figures in blues music, Eric Clapton is quite the foodie: he enjoys cooking, and once dined at the same Chicago restaurant 3 times in 2 days. Chicago has a rich history of blues music, and apparently some great restaurant food too!
I now find myself wondering about the favorite foods and dishes of some lesser-known, but incredible nonetheless, blues musicians: what did Reverend Utah Smith (gospel preacher and gospel blues guitar shredder) like to chow down on? Was Memphis Minnie a seafood fan? Did Houston Stackhouse enjoy breakfast for dinner? I’ll have to do some digging here and circle back to the Price Chopper & Market 32 Blog sometime in the future.
Stepping back from the tastes of the artists themselves, a variety of blues songs either are written about food, or contain food in their titles: Blueberry Hill by Fats Domino, Oreo Cookie Blues (paid partnership? I wonder!) by Lonnie Mack, and lots more. Cedell Davis, who learned to play the guitar with a butter knife after being struck by polio as a child and losing grip strength in his hands, does an awesome rendition of “Catfish and Cornbread”, as a spin on an old folk blues tune: check it out here.
So many songs and so much flavor!
Want to further wet your appetite for the blues? Check out our Blues Barbeque playlist on Spotify: it’s perfect for firing up the tunes while you’re firing up the grill. Listen here.
Long Live The Blues!
Mia Teal
Marketing Coordinator, Paid Media
The month of July has so much to offer. The weather is beautiful, school is out, and everywhere we look there are barbecues and picnics. It only makes sense that National Grilling Month is celebrated for the entirety of this month! When we think of firing up the grill, hot dogs and hamburgers are most likely the first thing to come to mind. However, there are actually an array of items that can be grilled. Some may even surprise you. Let’s take a look below!
Watermelon: Grilling watermelon is actually quite simple. If you are new to the whole “grilling fruit” idea, then you are in for a treat. Picture the juicy sweetness of watermelon with a smoky flavor. It is quite the combination. The watermelon should be cut into wedges and placed on a heated grill for two to three minutes. Some people may add sugar or spices, or just eat it plain.
Pineapple: Grilled pineapple is a must-try this summer. They can be cut in rings, wedges, or cubes. Many people brush the pineapple in butter and/or brown sugar, but that is optional. Lightly oil the grate and cook pineapple for two to three minutes.
Bananas: If you are a banana-lover, then you are in for a serious treat! To grill bananas, slice them down the middle with the peel intact. Place the cut-side of the banana on the grill and wait to see grill marks (should only be about two minutes). An option here is to sprinkle on sugar or honey. Using tongs, flip the bananas over for five more minutes, or until the peel starts to pull away. This is best served with vanilla ice cream. Speaking of, Price Chopper and Market 32 have a new line of PICS Pint Ice Cream! Check them out here.
Tofu: Looking to change up the way you eat tofu? Look no further! Grilled, seasoned tofu is a delicious summertime meal. You will want to buy firm or extra firm tofu, not soft. Press the excess liquid from the tofu prior to placing it on the grill, and make sure you oil the grill so the tofu does not stick. Cut tofu, paint with your marinade of choice, and then throw on the grill for two to three minutes each side. There you have it – Quick, easy, and anything but boring!
Pizza: If you have never grilled pizza before, then stop what you are doing and read this! Place the plain, formed dough on a cookie sheet and gently slide it onto the heated grill. The key here is to grill the dough on both sides, and then remove from the grill. Once you notice it starts to brown on one side, use tongs to flip. Once both sides are browned, let the crust cool on a rack for a few minutes to two hours. When you are ready, add your toppings and place back on the grill for two to three minutes.
Be sure to browse all-things grilling below for more traditional barbecue food!
Grilling days are on the menu! We have some ideas you and your family will love, while you are loving eating more meals with your family. Warmer days also mean grilling outside can keep inside cool and comfortable.
Let’s check out this week’s meal planning items.
Sausage & Peppers:
1 pack Market 32 Sweet or Hot Italian Sausage
1 bag Mini Peppers
1 bag (2lbs.) Sweet Vidalia Onions
1 pack PICS Hotdog Buns
1 container Market 32 Deli Salads (Buy one get one FREE)
Shop for Sausage & Peppers here!
Meal 1: Sausage & Peppers
Sausage and Peppers is a versatile meal that can be prepped and cooked in different ways. Check out these hacks and tips!
Essentials:
2 clean cutting boards
1 Chef Knife
BBQ grill skillet or BBQ grill sheet
Pantry:
PICS Olive Oil or PICS Vegetable Oil Spray
Grill the sweet or hot Market 32 Italian Sausage on the grill, and sizzle colorful mini peppers sliced into strips, and sweet Vidalia onions sliced in whole, thin rings in a grill-friendly pan with some PICS Olive Oil (in the seasonal and grilling displays in the store!). The sausage, topped with sizzled peppers and onions, fits perfectly on a PICS Hot Dog Bun, with the fresh Market 32 Deli Pasta Salad rounding out your plate!
Try our these Sausage & Pepper Kabobs!
Essentials:
Good Cook Bamboo Skewers
Simply Done Napkins
Meat thermometer
BBQ corn holders
Measuring cups
TBSP measure
Tongs
Good Cook basting brushes
Pantry:
PICS Vegetable Oil Spray
PICS Sugar
PICS Kosher Salt
Accent seasoning
PICS White Vinegar
PICS Unsalted Butter
Soak skewers in water for 15 minutes while you prep the sausage and veggies. Slice each sausage into 3 pieces. Slice the mini peppers into two halves and the Vidalia onion into chunks. Thread the veggies on the skewers with a pepper half on each side of the chunk of onion and on each side of the piece of sausage. Grill on low, turning to ensure the sausage and vegetables cook through. Serve the kabob in PICS Hot Dog Bun, and remove the skewer, leaving the sausage and vegetables on the bun.
Meal 2: Finger-Licking Good Grilled Chicken Drumsticks, Sweet Corn, and Market 32 Potato Salad
This meal is a breeze and sure to please! Almost no prep and easy clean up – everything cooks on the grill, making it the summer version of a “1-pan” meal.
Hack – Soak corn in 3 cups cool water with a dash of salt and tsp of sugar for about 10 minutes. This helps the kernels stay tender while you grill them up. Brining the chicken legs ensures they are moist and juicy – see the recipe for that here:
Light sodium brine: for 12 – 18 chicken drumsticks.
10 cups water
¼ cup PICS sugar
¼ cup PICS White Vinegar
2 TBSP Accent + 1 TBSP Kosher Salt OR 3 TBSP Kosher Salt
Place brine in a large pot or container. Add the chicken drumsticks, move the pot to the refrigerator and allow to soak for about 20 minutes. When ready to cook, remove from the pot and shake to remove excess brine. Discard the used brine. Place chicken in a foil tray or platter to transport to the grill, and set up a clean platter for the cooked chicken and corn.
A quick spray of PICS Vegetable Oil on the chicken legs and the corn will minimize food sticking to the hot grill.
Cook the chicken over a medium hot fire, turning every few minutes to brown evenly and cook to internal temperature of 165 degrees. The corn and chicken are well-matched for the grill – both will take about 20 minutes to cook. Corn will gradually caramelize, lightly browning. Consider using separate tongs. At the 15 -minute mark, brush on the Sweet Baby Rays Hot Sauce for the adventurous eaters in your family! Turn the chicken legs one more time to caramelize the sauce. Serve with Market 32 Potato Salad, and a pile of Simply Done Napkins!
Family Meals Movement burst
Did you know – more family meals help children learn social skills and support better mental health? A fun conversation starter for May – who has the most flowers in their yard on your street? Did you see any birds or bunnies today?
What We're Grillin' for National Burger Day
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Intern
‘Tis the season for grilling! Warmer weather calls for burgers on the grill, and what better way to celebrate National Burger Day than by grilling up a delicious, juicy burger. Make National Burger Day exciting by pairing your burger with fresh toppings of choice. Whether you enjoy beef or vegetarian burgers, we have you covered. Check out some Price Chopper and Market 32 recipes below on making National Burger Day fun for everyone in your household!
Aloha Burger: We’ve heard of pineapple on pizza, but what about on your burger? This delicious sweet and salty combination of pineapple, vegetables, Swiss cheese, and Canadian bacon is a must-try! Next time you are in our store, be on the lookout for whole, fresh pineapple or pre-cut pineapple rings.
Cobb Burger: This heavenly, filling burger is the perfect mix of vegetables, eggs, and blue cheese. Be sure to stop by the deli section at your local Price Chopper and Market 32 for the finest selection of cheeses that are perfect for your burger!
Easy Black Bean Burger: Beef isn’t your thing? Check out this mouthwatering Easy Black Bean Burger that is perfect for any occasion, especially National Burger Day! This recipe includes PICS brand oats, walnuts, and Mexican blend shredded cheese as well as a variety of vegetables.
Want to learn the secret to grilling the “perfect burger?” Head to Price Chopper and Market 32’s YouTube page for tips and tricks!
Happy National Burger Day!
Quick & Easy Grilling Solutions
You don’t have to be a grill master to create super-simple grilled favorites. This summer, take advantage of your grill and experiment with basic cuts that offer quick, easy and satisfying solutions. Utilize less extravagant, familiar meats that are easy to prep and deliver smoky, mouthwatering meals.
Beef sirloin steak is an excellent entry-level cut that’s easy to grill. For a hearty entrée, prepare rib-eye or strip steaks with your favorite spice rub and grill to perfection! These cuts can typically feed a crowd; grill, slice, and serve them family-style. Add sirloin steak to salads or these light and flavorful Summertime Steak Lettuce Wraps. For a fun, interactive meal, grill seasoned cubes of strip steak on skewers alternated with chunks of red and green peppers, onions and cherry tomatoes.
Bone-in or boneless chicken breasts and thighs are grilling favorites that are also easy to work with. Pack a punch of flavor with spice rubs or marinades; refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to penetrate. Try a smoky, tangy teriyaki marinade, as seen in this Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe. For a simple dish accented with bright seasonal flavors, grill chicken breasts marinated in onion-poppy seed dressing and serve them over romaine and baby spinach in this Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad. Chicken wings are also a grilled classic. Ready in minutes, this Grilled Tex-Mex Wings recipe is a perfect dinner solution for any casual or special occasion.
Cooking quickly and easily, pork shoulder steaks are an extremely underrated cut. They are half the price of traditional pork chops, and many believe them to be twice as delicious! And since they’re quite thin, they don’t take long to grill. Baste pork shoulder steaks with BBQ sauce or your favorite dressing during the last few minutes of grilling, and you’ll have a tender, hearty centerpiece.
Looking for more grilling inspiration? Find grilled recipes, videos, tips and more here!
11 Summer Grillmaster Essentials
Although we may not be having the big backyard barbeques we usually crave during the cold winter months, we can still get excited to work our magic on our grills. To prepare for the upcoming weekends with weather that’s finally staying nice, we’ve put together a list of 11 grillmaster essentials to keep your grill cooking all summer long!
Kosher Salt: If you ask us, Kosher Salt is the #1 seasoning salt out there. It’s a must-have for any barbeque!
PICS Vegetable Oil: Vegetable Oil is our go-to option for lubricating the grill. It’s inexpensive when compared to alternatives like peanut and corn oil while still maintaining a very acceptable smoke point.
Olive Oil: Good Olive Oil, like Filippo Berio, will add a nice boost when drizzled on veggies and meat after you take them off the grill.
Versatile Seasoning: A versatile seasoning, like McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, is important to enhance the flavor of meat, fish, chicken, or veggies.
All-Purpose Rub: An all-purpose rub, like Stubbs BBQ, goes great on ribs, pork, or chicken!
Skewers: Skewers are essential! Go with your preference when choosing between wood and metal options.
Tongs/Spatula: Of course, a good set of tongs and a spatula are important grilling tools.
Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is an excellent resource for knowing when your meat is done cooking and ready-to-eat. They’re key for preventing over and under cooking.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Combined with your favorite BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar creates a tasty mop sauce or glaze for a kick of flavor. Add it in in the final 10 minutes of grilling chicken, pork, or veggies for the best result.
Aluminum Foil: Aluminum foil works well as a makeshift smoker packet on the grill. Also, it’s useful for wrapping up your vegetables, ribs, fish, and more for a different method of grilling.
Let your grill skills shine now that nicer weather is upon us. These 11 essentials will have you on the grillmaster fast track. Visit your local store or head to our website to pick up these items and more to prepare for all the grilling ahead!
Happy Grilling!
Get Your Grill On!
Maureen Rowan Murphy, Manager Consumer Trends, Nutrition and Lifestyles
I believe the best gift is the gift of time-time spent with those we love. While my Dad is no longer here, one of my fondest memories is the last Father’s Day I spent with him. Not only did we have quality time together, but I grilled and served one of his favorite meals. Had I not tackled my grilling “fears” that cherished memory would likely not exist.
While always comfortable cooking in the kitchen my comfort level didn’t extend outdoors. The grill was uncharted territory, and one day I made up my mind that I had to change that. I learned the basics, and then jumped right in and fired up the grill! Sure, there were a few grilling mishaps, but as my confidence grew so did my skills. I guess you could say it was trial by fire! Now I’m viewed as the grill master in my house. If you’re intimidated like I was, here are tips to help you on your way to becoming a grill master!
Gather It Up
- Gather everything up to avoid leaving food unattended on hot grill
- Wire brush
- Long-handled matches/lighter and charcoal for charcoal grill
- Long handled tongs
- Metal spatula
- Basting brushes
- Skewers
- Grill basket
- Meat thermometer
- Clean platters and utensils
- Heavy duty oven mitts
- Reduce food sticking by taking a paper towel dipped in a little oil, and using tongs, wipe evenly over the grates
- Preheat grill 10 to 15 minutes to ensure it reaches the proper temperature as well as kill any possible bacteria
- Grilling Temperatures – High: 400-450°F for high; medium-high: 350-400°F; medium: 300-350°F; low: 250-300°F
- A properly heated grill sears foods on contact, keeps the insides moist and helps prevent sticking
- Keep a spray water bottle for gas or charcoal grills nearby in case of flare ups
- Don’t use cooking spray on a hot grill
- Sear the meat to seal in juices and capture its best flavors
- Turn grill down after searing so food does not burn outside and remain raw inside
- Use tongs when turning meat or poultry to keep natural juices inside
- Turn food only once – the less you flip, the more the flavor develops
- Apply sauces and glazes during last 10 minutes to avoid potential flare-ups
- Close grill lid to enhance smoky flavor and keep moisture in
- Use a food thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature
- Steaks, roasts and chops: 145°F with a 3 minute rest time
- Ground beef, pork, lamb and veal: 160°F
- Poultry, including ground poultry: 165°F
- Let meat “rest”, tented with foil, about 10 minutes before cutting
be customized for everyone you are making dinner for. When we have our friends over we usually have a kabob making station. I will have everything prepared in different bowls, a variety of veggies, fruits, and proteins, then everyone gets to choose what they want on their kabobs! It’s a really fun way to make sure everyone is happy with their meal!
For more summer recipe inspiration check out Price Chopper’s Savory Summer Pinterest Board! What will you be grilling this summer? Written By: Ellie Wilson, MS, RD Senior Nutritionist, Price Chopper Supermarkets
“Cool as a cucumber” – you can be all that enjoying the farm- fresh cucumbers in the stores right now from farmers like Walter Czajkowski and Mary McNamara at Plainville Farm in Plainville, CT. Cucumbers have a clean, mild flavor and they can star or be a supporting player in salads, salsas, and pickles. Have you ever made your own pickles? It is so easy – try Mary’s easy bread and butter pickle recipe. Everything you need, including the mason jars, are in your store.
- 6.
5 cups thinly sliced pickling cucumbers - 1 cup of onions
- 1.5 cup of sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 3/4 tsp turmeric
- 3/4 tsp mustard seed
- 3/4 tsp celery seed
- 1.5 Tbsp salt
Summer is also grilling time, so putting together a quick and easy grilled meal for friends and family is fun and fresh! Peppers are also coming in – our friends at Blackhorse farms have beautiful peppers in the stores, and they can be enjoyed in this super summer recipe from Eating Well. The shrimp is on sale, and all of the ingredients are waiting for you.
https://www.pricechopper.com/recipes/9816/Grilled-Shrimp-Cocktail-with-Yellow-Gazpacho-Salsa
Delicious, and my favorite part – it is all really good and good for you. Enjoy!