Leftover Strategies - Do Not Let Your Food Go to Waste!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
Do you ever find yourself throwing out food because you made too much? Maybe you are unsure of how to properly store leftovers, so the easy option is to just toss the food. While it may seem convenient at the time, this can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars per year. Even more alarming is that each year, approximately 108 billion pounds of food is wasted in the United States! What can you do to avoid this? We came up with how to save your leftovers and ways to make a meal out of a meal! With the kids going back to school, this will save you an abundance of time in your busy schedule.
First, let’s discuss your freezer. Before we can start freezing our leftovers, it is a wise idea to clean out what is already inside the freezer and check to see if older items are freezer burned. Foods that are freezer burned will appear grainy in texture, may lose its flavor, and have a grayish-brown hue. Once the freezer has been gutted, now it is time to store your leftovers. You may be surprised at how much you buy can be frozen!
Meats and Seafood:
Meats can be stored raw or frozen. Keep in mind, it could take up to 24 hours to defrost meat, so be sure to plan ahead. Seafood on the other hand can also be frozen. However, if you plan on freezing your seafood, it may be a smart idea to buy the fish frozen because it will last up to six months in the freezer. Seafood that is purchased already thawed will lose its quality after being refrozen. Both meats and seafood should be stored in an airtight freezer bag.
Bread and Baked Goods:
Breads and baked goods can be frozen, and this is especially important around the holidays when you will most likely have a ton of leftovers. Cookies and cakes are best frozen without any icing, as it can get sticky. However, just because there is icing on your baked goods does not mean that they must be thrown out. Additionally, if the kids are home on a holiday break and not as much bread for sandwiches is being consumed, it would be ideal to freeze that bread for the following week.
Dairy and Eggs:
Dairy items including butter and cheese are best frozen between six and nine months. These items should be stored in an airtight freezer bag or container. Higher fat cheese like cheddar will freeze better than soft cheese with less fat, like goat cheese. Whether you are cooking with butter or using cheese on your child’s school lunch, freezing dairy is very cost effective.
When freezing eggs, it is best to first crack the eggs in a bowl and scramble them. From here, add ⅛ teaspoon of salt OR sugar per egg. This will ensure that the yolk does not thicken while in the freezer. Pour the liquid eggs into a muffin tin or ice cube tray and freeze for 4-6 hours. Once frozen, they can be transferred to a container or freezer bag. The eggs will last up to one year frozen. If you want to save yourself time in the morning and make a meal out of the eggs, try adding in some veggies of your choice to make mini omelets before freezing!
Beans:
Beans can be frozen once drained from the can and rinsed. Beans should be placed in a Ziploc bag or container and then filled with water. Once completed, beans are ready to go in the freezer! What a great way to save time and money in the future if you are making a soup, chili, dip, or salad!
Fruits and Vegetables:
Almost all fruits and vegetables can be frozen. Fruits can become soggy once thawed, so it would be best to make a smoothie out of your leftover frozen fruit. Vegetables can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag. Be wary of potatoes and lettuce as they do not freeze well.
While freezing food is a fantastic way to save, leftovers can also be used for your lunch or dinner the following day. Another option is making a meal like soup out of your leftovers and then freeze the soup! Check out a few recipes below that are quick and easy to make with your leftovers.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Ham Soup: Whether you made ham for your family’s dinner or have a ton left over from a holiday gathering, try making this Split Pea Ham Soup with veggies of your choice.
Spinach, Black Bean, & Corn Salad With Chipotle-Cocoa Vinaigrette: Add in some leftover meat of your choice if you choose, and there you have a very quick and easy lunch!
White Chicken Chili: This easy meal is the perfect fall lunch or dinner made with your leftovers!
Zucchini Lasagna Roll Ups: Have some leftover zucchini from the garden? Try these delicious roll ups!
Happy Saving!
Tools For Schools Launching Soon!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Intern
Whether you are a parent, current student, or former student, it is no secret that school supplies can get very expensive. For families that have more than one child going back to school, the cost can be overwhelming and quite terrifying. At Price Chopper and Market 32, we have a simple way for customers to support their school of choice each time they swipe their AdvantEdge Card. We will soon be launching our Tools for Schools program which is an incredible way to help local schools earn their share of $350,000 in educational supplies. The kickoff for the program will take place on Sunday, August 21st. Who knew that by just buying groceries, you can support local schools and their students!
home.grown. Prolong Your Garden with Pickling!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Intern
Summer is the best time of year for fresh produce. At Price Chopper and Market 32, we partner with a wide variety of local farmers in the region, but we know that many Northeasterners enjoy growing their own produce. If you fall into this category, your garden may just be overflowing, and you can only give away so many tomatoes! Pickling could be a good alternative for you and your veggies. We have exactly what you need from mason jars and lids and other canning and pickling essentials like large-size vinegar. Read below on how to pickle if this is new to you, and then stop in your local Price Chopper or Market 32 to get the supplies you need!
What exactly is pickling, and is it just for cucumbers?
Pickling is the process of preserving food in a brine solution in order to extend its shelf life. By brining certain foods, bacteria are not allowed to grow. There are so many food products that can be pickled, and just a few are listed below. Some may even surprise you!
Cucumbers, garlic, pork, beets, carrots, eggs, strawberries, blueberries, radishes, shrimp. onions, squash, peppers, beef, and mangoes.
History of Pickling:
Pickling foods is nowhere near a new concept. According to archeologists and anthropologists, they believe that ancient Mesopotamians pickled. Later, pickling was a necessity for families to have food throughout the winter months and was crucial for sailors on long voyages.
How to Pickle Your Garden Veggies:
Fresh vegetables without bruises from your garden are ideal to pickle. The shape you choose to cut your produce is up to you, but cherry tomatoes are best when left as a whole and carrots work well when cut into spears.
- Prepare your mason jar by washing it with warm, soapy water and then rinsing out completely. Dry thoroughly with a towel.
- Cut your vegetables into the shape of your choice and trim the ends. Add in any spices if you choose or garlic.
- Pack your vegetables tightly in the mason jars. Ensure that there is some room from the top of the vegetables to the rim of the jar.
- Prepare your brine by following the steps below:
- Combine: 1 cup water, 1 cup vinegar of choice, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar
- Poor into a small pan over high heat and bring to a boil
- Continue stirring to ensure the salt and sugar dissolve
- Pour brine into mason jars
- Let vegetables cool for at least one hour before enjoying. The longer they sit in the brine, the better.
Happy Pickling!
Shop Pickling Necessities
Are You Ready For Your Summer Getaway?
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Intern
Nothing says summer like a nice, relaxing vacation with friends and family. Whether you are a lake or a beach person, Price Chopper and Market 32 want to make sure you have everything you need for your trip! If you are looking for new places to vacation this summer, you are in luck. Check out some great getaway spots below!
Lake George (Lake George, NY): Located in Upstate New York, Lake George has a variety of fun options. Whether you want to lounge by the beach, challenge your athletic abilities at Adirondack Extreme, or take a boat cruise of the lake, Lake George has an option for everyone!
Cape Cod (Cape Cod, MA): Cape Cod is booming with things to do, which makes this location a very popular destination in the summertime. Be sure to try out some amazing lobster rolls and other seafood restaurants while you are there!
Crystal Lake (Barton, VT): Located in the beautiful state of Vermont, Crystal Lake is three miles long and one mile in width. This destination has a variety of “outdoorsy” activities ranging from boating, paddle boarding, picnicking, and fishing.
duBois Beach (Stonington, CT): Located right outside of Mystic, Connecticut, duBois Beach is perfect for your family. You will find that this beach is in close proximity to the downtown shops and restaurants. While you are here, don’t forget to watch the sunset. It will take your breath away!
Hampton Beach (Hampton, NH): Hampton Beach is a family-friendly beach with many different activities. You can rent a cabin or campfire right online! Make sure to pack your marshmallows!
Lake Wallenpaupack (Stroudsburg, PA): Lake Wallenpaupack is a gorgeous, 13-mile-long lake in Pennsylvania. Whether you want to hangout in the sand, play a round of miniature golf, or visit Costa’s Family Fun Park, this lake is perfect for your next trip!
Wondering what to pack for lunch and snacks while by the water? Check out some of our favorites below. Just make sure you don’t forget the ice when packing your cooler!
Last but certainly not least, bug spray and sunscreen are a must! Check out Price Chopper and Market 32’s collection below to find exactly what you need for your big trip.
Shop Lake and Beach Vacation Essentials
Berry-Delicious Desserts & Smoothies!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Intern
It is no secret that summertime is the best season to consume fruit. Not only are strawberries and blueberries delicious, but these little fruits have quite the history. Check out some fun facts and fruity dessert recipes below!
Strawberry Fun Facts!
Did you know that strawberries originated in Europe in the 1800s? Today, over 94% of American households consume strawberries! That is a LOT of berries!
Strawberry-Rosé & Poppy Seed Shortcake: Name a better combo than fresh strawberry shortcake with vanilla ice cream! Be sure to grab PICS whipped cream in the dairy section to top this dessert off.
Strawberry-Orange Smoothie: Price Chopper and Market 32 have a ton of frozen fruit in our frozen sections. Just add PICS milk of your choice, orange juice, nonfat Greek yogurt, and honey. Blend and enjoy!
Red, White, & Blue Trifle: With the Fourth of July right around the corner, this dessert will be a hit at your party. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but this dessert is bright, appealing, and fun!
Blueberry Fun Facts!
Did you know that people have been consuming blueberries for the past 13,000 years? Shoutout to New Jersey who was the first state to begin cultivating blueberries in the 20th century!
Lucky Charms Frozen Yogurt Pie: This yogurt pie is perfect for any summer occasion that adults and kids will love!
Fruit and Baby Kale Smoothie: Looking for a fresh and easy smoothie? Check this one out! The best part is, you can customize your drink based on preference.
Whole Wheat Blueberry Nut Pancakes: Ah, the perfect Sunday morning breakfast! Blueberry pancakes with fresh butter? Yes, please!
For more berry-delicious recipes, check out our YouTube page!
Enjoy!
Fun Father's Day Recipes!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Intern
With Father’s Day right around the corner, we want to show all fathers, grandfathers, and uncles our love and appreciation for all they do, and there is no better way than by cooking up some of our favorite recipes! Check out these hearty meals as well as snack and dessert recipes!
Breakfast & Brunch
Spring Sausage & Vegetable Strata: Eggs, sausage, cheese, and vegetables? What better breakfast combo! This recipe has fresh, delicious ingredients and the best part is, substitutions can be made to suit all needs while keeping this meal bursting with flavor.
Eggs Benedict – Your way! This delicious meal will guarantee an egg-celent start to your Father’s Day celebration!
Buttermilk-Bacon Pancakes with Bourbon Maple Syrup: Check out these pancakes with bacon cooked within! Pair this meal with fresh fruit or a cold glass of PICS orange juice.
Lunch & Dinner On the Grill!
Grilled Orange-Teriyaki Steaks with Grilled Scallions & Bell Peppers: Nothing says Father’s Day like steak on the grill! Check out this recipe paired with fresh scallions and peppers that can be found in our produce department.
Grilled Drunken Shrimp and Jalapeño Skewers: Not only is this recipe flavorful, it is super easy to make! Be sure to pick up PICS shrimp, herbs, and honey in your local Price Chopper or Market 32.
Grilled Patty Melts: Fire up that grill for these juicy, cheesy burgers!
Snacks:
Barbeque Chicken Pizza Dip: A pizza dip? We think yes! This dip will be a favorite at your Father’s Day celebration!
Savory Rosemary Snack Mix: Warning: This snack is difficult to stop eating after the first bite! The Goldfish and Chex Mix combo will be sure to bring back some childhood nostalgia.
Tortellini, Pepperoni, & Olive Kabobs: This easy-to-make salty snack that will be a hit at your party!
Desserts:
Brookie Muffins: Chocolate and peanut butter both taste delicious, but how about when you combine them? Unreal! Check out our baking section for the brownie mix of your choice!
Double Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream Sandwiches: Dad will love these ice cream sandwiches! Pick up his favorite PICS ice cream in our frozen foods section.
Lemon Surprise Cake: This cool and refreshing cake is the perfect end to your Father’s Day.
Check out our YouTube page for more tips and tricks to make your Father’s Day meals spectacular!
Happy Father’s Day!
Innovative in the Kitchen with Rotisserie Chicken
Save time in the kitchen with our Market 32 rotisserie chicken! Our new rotisserie chicken is 15% bigger, with tender white meat that’s antibiotic free. Enjoy this convenient kitchen staple in mouthwatering flavors, including Original, Zesty Lemon Pepper, Savory Rosemary Garlic, All-Natural and Authentic BBQ. Plus, we’ve added a new flavor for a limited time only: Sweet Thai Chili. Now, there’s even more reason to taste this delicious and versatile family favorite.
Rotisserie chicken is great on its own and adds an abundance of protein and flavor to countless recipes. Try these clever ideas for using rotisserie chicken in your menu repertoire.
Apps & Snacks
Ready-to-use rotisserie chicken adds ease to prepping quick snacks and appetizers. Incorporate it into any dip in need of a hearty protein boost or use it in loaded homemade sweet potato fries topped with rotisserie chicken, chopped bell peppers and feta. Lettuce wraps filled with a combination of our Authentic BBQ rotisserie chicken, BBQ sauce, pineapple, coleslaw and red onion are sure to satisfy a small group before the big meal. Go bite-size with trendy Oven-Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders or Buffalo Ranch Chicken Wonton Bites that both offer a tangy kick of spice.
Winner, Winner Chicken Dinners
There are infinite dinner possibilities involving rotisserie chicken! Use it in an Open-Faced Chicken Melt featuring a healthy take on chicken salad topped with apples and melted cheddar. It’s also ideal for dishes such as fajita bowls, noodle bowls or this Chicken Banh Mi Bowl. You can also use rotisserie chicken to create the classic “chicken parmesan” flavor profile and use it as a filling for inventive Grilled Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats. Making Chicken Pot Pie is typically an intensive process, but with rotisserie chicken, this beloved comforting meal becomes as simple as pie. Or revive pizza night and add rotisserie chicken to flatbreads like this Chicken Cobb Salad Naan Flatbread recipe, for another savory pie sensation.
When you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken allows you to create extraordinary entrées with minimal effort. For more ways to creatively use our rotisserie chicken, click here!
Checking Out - Almond Breeze Yogurt Alternatives
Ellie Wilson
MS, RDN Senior Nutritionist
Creamy, crunchy, packable and snackable! The world of plant-based dairy alternatives continues to evolve, with new yogurt alternatives closely following the introduction of alt-dairy coffee creamers and frozen desserts. Blue Diamond, an agricultural cooperative of over 3000 family-owned almond farms, is ramping up innovation with new single serve flip-cup flavors and two 24-ounce offerings of original (almond) and vanilla-flavored almondmilk yogurt alternatives.
Blue Diamond is over 100 years old, started in 1910 by 230 almond growers. A pantry staple that has pushed boundaries of product development and almond education, it now has an international presence, distributing almonds in over 80 countries. It is also a leader in food safety and sustainability.
The flip cups will appeal to those exploring plant-based foods, vegetarian and vegan items. Fun combinations of honey-roasted and toasted almonds, dark chocolate chips, and crunchy oat clusters are some of the flip cup toppings that are ready to add to the 5.3 ounce individual servings of vanilla–flavored almond milk yogurt alternative. I am very partial to adding flavor, texture and benefit with nuts, berries and granola to yogurts. These flavor combos will delight whether seeking non-dairy items for health concerns or exploring plant-based options and new food adventures.
Most of the flip cups are a good source of fiber and calcium, and an excellent source of Vitamin E, a naturally occurring nutrient found in almonds. The flip cups range from 180-210 calories, the original and vanilla flavors around 110-150 calories per serving. They also contain 5 live and active cultures, and have a creamy, silky texture very similar to traditional yogurt. They have a higher water content that will create a great base for chia pudding and overnight oats recipes – great way to explore using the 24-ounce vanilla and original flavor items. Get inspired by some of their recipes. Find them all in the Dairy case at Price Chopper and Market 32. Enjoy!
Much like our Supermarket Word Find, our coloring sheets are fun for everyone!
To print these, just save each image to your desktop and print.
Happy coloring! Be on the look out for more activities in the coming weeks.
If you’re staying in, here’s a fun activity for both kids and adults. We’ve taken a few of our store departments and turned them into word finds. We’ve hidden words like FLORIST and TOMATO in these: can you find them?
To print these, just save each image to your desktop and print.
Be well, and stay tuned for more activities in the coming weeks!
