Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing
Hooray for National Peanut Butter & Jelly Day! We are going nuts over this delicious combination that is a favorite for so many people. At Price Chopper & Market 32, we have a wide selection of peanut butter, jelly, jam, and fresh bread. Be sure to take a look at the end of this article!
Do you really know your peanut butter and jelly? Don’t miss out on these fun facts!
- The peanut butter & jelly combination is nothing new. The first of these sandwiches appeared 122 years ago in a cooking magazine.
- The average American will eat 15,000 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before graduating high school. That is kind of a lot!
- Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are ranked #9 of the top 15 sandwiches Americans love.
Love peanut butter and jelly? So do we! That’s why we’re sharing our favorite recipes below for National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day. Whether you prefer chunky or smooth, grape or strawberry jelly, we’ve got something for everyone. Explore new flavor combinations and impress your taste buds with our easy-to-follow recipes.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Breakfast Tart: This freshly baked peanut butter & jelly breakfast in the morning will put a smile on everyone’s face! The best part? It is quick, simple, and only requires a handful of ingredients!
PB & J Stuffed French Toast: Remember when we noted that peanut butter & jelly has evolved? This is the perfect example! This takes the classic French Toast to a whole new level!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing
March 24th is National Cocktail Day, which just happens to fall on a Friday this year. How convenient! Price Chopper and Market 32 have a variety of recipes and all the best ingredients you need to celebrate tonight! First, let’s rewind time and see some history of the cocktail.
Cocktails are nothing new. In fact, they have been around since the 18th Century! Originally inspired by British punches, the term “cocktail” was first shown in a 1798 newspaper. It is unknown who created the first cocktail, but one thing is for certain – Cocktails have evolved over time. There are so many different recipes and variations to making a delicious cocktail. The possibilities are endless!
Now for the best part – let’s mix some drinks!
Spring Cocktails: What better way to celebrate the first week of Spring than with this Spring Cocktail! This drink is a delicious mix of berries, bourbon whisky, vodka, & gin!
Pomegranate Cosmo: To say this drink is refreshing would be an understatement. Fresh pomegranate in your cosmo? I think yes!
Poison Apple Sour: Dare to try this Poison Apple Sour? With only a few ingredients and 5 minutes prep time, we think this is a must-try!
Cos-Mocktails: Who says your drink needs to have alcohol? Try this non-alcoholic mocktail for a delicious, refreshing drink!
Need some ingredients! Shop below!
Source:
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing
Crunchy French bread dipped in Olive Oil is a pairing like no other. Since National French Bread Day was this week, we wanted to draw attention to this delicious duo, but also highlight the benefits of olive oil. At Price Chopper and Market 32, we have freshly baked French Bread in our bakery that is made daily, a wide variety of olive oil, and so many recipes on our website that use olive oil as a main ingredient. Want to discover what the hype is around olive oil? Keep reading to find out!
Olive Oil Benefits:
Olive oil is considered to be heart-healthy. A 2022 Harvard study illustrates that regular olive oil consumption instead of animal fats could lead to lower cardiovascular disease risk. Additionally, olive oil could potentially help boost bone health and strength, as well as combat inflammation, according to the North American Olive Association. For more information, see the sources at the end of this blog and different studies that have come out around olive oil.
Cooking With Olive Oil:
While there are many different types of olive oils, you may be wondering what the differences are. In our “Cooking with Olive Oil” article, you will learn about four main types of olive oils and how they stand out from each other. This article will help you choose which olive oil to use the next time you cook. Additionally, if you are looking for new recipes that use olive oil, you have come to the right place! Check out these fabulous recipes that you are sure to love!
Orange-Scented Olive Oil Cake: When you think of baking a cake, you would typically use canola oil or vegetable oil. Yes, you can actually use olive oil in some baking recipes like this one! With cinnamon & nutmeg also in the mix, you are sure to have a favorite here.
Italian Easter Pie: With Easter right around the corner, you will certainly want to try this Italian Easter Pie at your holiday gathering. All the freshest ingredients into one savory pie will have your guests thrilled!
Harvest Salad: Fresh arugula, blue cheese, walnuts, and brussel sprouts make for a fantastic salad. Cooking the brussel sprouts in PICS olive oil is the perfect way to make them!
Honey-Garlic Skillet Chicken: With only six ingredients, this chicken dish is absolutely delicious and simple to make.
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing
What is a Sloppy Joe, and why was this sandwich given this name? Since today is National Sloppy Joe Day, it is only right that we answer your burning Sloppy Joe questions!
Sloppy Joes are a very popular, messy sandwich! Not only do they taste delicious, but the ingredients are generally inexpensive. Traditionally, the Sloppy Joe is made with ground beef, onions, garlic, bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce or ketchup, and seasoning on a hamburger bun or roll. What a combo! Of course, there is no right or wrong way to make this sandwich. Some people have substituted beef for chicken, or a plant-based meat.
Now that we know what the sandwich consists of, why in the world is the name Sloppy Joe? Believe it or not, there are different stories on how the Sloppy Joe got its name. The first story takes place in Havana, Cuba. José García was the bar owner, and served ropa vieja to his customers. This is a type of Cuban-style pork. His customers would often joke with García that his restaurant was “sloppy,” hence the name Sloppy Joe’s.
The second tale originated in 1930 from Sioux City, Iowa. The story goes that a cook named Joe who worked in a popular restaurant would make sandwiches by dousing loose-ended meat with tomato sauce. Many believe this is how the name Sloppy Joe was born.
Which story is true? Well, that is up for you to decide. Either way, the Sloppy Joe we know and love is a delicious, warm, and filling meal. Stop by your local Price Chopper and Market 32 for the finest ingredients to make your next Sloppy Joe, or visit our website!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
Who can resist the sweetness of strawberries? Strawberries are not only delicious and juicy, but they are a very popular fruit. According to a 2021 survey, strawberries are among the top favorite fruits for Americans. In fact, the average American will consume 3.4 pounds of strawberries per year, and 94% of United States households eat these delicate fruits.
While strawberries are a delicious snack on their own, there are many different ways to cook or bake with them as an ingredient. Some ideas include making smoothies or ice cream, creating a strawberry dressing, or even making your own jam or jelly. Whatever you decide to do with your strawberries this season, be sure to first stop by your local Price Chopper and Market 32 to pick out packages of these fresh fruits!
In need of some recipes? Check out a few fruity ideas from our website!
Strawberry-Rosé & Poppy Seed Shortcake: Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked biscuits on a Sunday morning. Serve with strawberries & PICS whipped cream to complete the meal!
Strawberry-Orange Smoothie: Whether you need a breakfast on-the-go or a quick pick-me-up, this smoothie will help power you through your day!
Strawberry, Arugula and Quinoa Salad with Asparagus & Feta: Fresh strawberries add the perfect amount of sweetness to this salad. Feel free to add in Market 32 chicken or turkey breast for a delicious addition to this meal.
Happy National Strawberry Day!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
February 22nd is National Supermarket Employee Day! In any business, displaying exceptional customer service is the key to success. At Price Chopper and Market 32, we have a lot to be proud of with our hardworking, dedicated teammates whose customer service goes above and beyond. They are the engine that drives our company day in and day out!
Today and everyday, we want to honor our fantastic teammates whose customer service does not go unnoticed. We thank them for all they do!
Read below about some teammates who have shown exemplary customer service in our Price Chopper and Market 32 locations!
Market 32, O’Neill Highway (Dunmore, PA) #135
Charmaigne E. Santiago, Front-End Teammate
Charmaigne started her career with Price Chopper/Market in December 2021. There was an instant connection and we knew we had a winner bringing Charmaigne onboard. If you look up the definition of customer service, you will find a picture of Charmaigne Santiago!
There isn’t a day that passes that Charmaigne doesn’t receive a compliment. One of our customers wrote in, “Charmaigne makes every person smile. She is a kind, hardworking, lovely woman. I always try to get in her line.” Her bubbly spirit is contagious, and she instantly puts customers and teammates in a good mood. She is dependable, charismatic, earnest, and a true asset to our company. Charmaigne is always engaged and challenges her teammates to do the same. We are proud to have Charmaigne on our team!
Price Chopper, Erie Boulevard (Syracuse, NY) #172
Tyler Burgess, Customer Service Assistant Team Leader
Tyler has been with the company for almost seven years. Tyler started with us as a Part Time Maintenance Teammate at store 199 in Cicero. During Tyler’s time at Cicero, he worked very hard and learned anything he could. He went from Maintenance to the Cash Register and then to Supervising the Front End in a high volume store. Last year, Tyler was selected for our Associate Development Program (ADP) where Tyler went on to further his skill set by leaving Cicero to train in other stores. Tyler trained with us at Erie Boulevard, store 172 and then went to Clay, store 182 to train in the Cash Office. Tyler successfully graduated the ADP program and returned to us at Erie Boulevard where he is currently acting as our Customer Service Assistant Team Leader.
In Tyler’s short time back to the store he has already exhibited his exceptional service by being mentioned as a “Wow Teammate” on our Helpful Experience Shops not just once, but twice!
In Tyler’s spare time he is an avid bowler. Tyler is not just passionate about Customer Service, Tyler and his girlfriend are also very driven to help animals in need, as they foster cats that need homes as well.
Price Chopper, Cortland NY #178
Morgan McDonald, PAC Teammate
Morgan is a great asset to our store and to our customers. She is there whenever a customer or teammate needs her and will answer questions for any department. Morgan often receives compliments from customers when working in the aisles as she helps them find item locations. She will often come up to assist the Front-End by running the register, helping customers with a carry out, or assisting with an Instacart order. Morgan is very artistic and created a customized sign for Cortland’s participation in Trunk or Treat this last fall. We appreciate Morgan’s dedication and willingness to go above and beyond!
Market 32, Sutton MA #244
Richard Laflash, Bakery Teammate
Here at Market 32 in Sutton, MA, we have an exceptional teammate in our bakery department. His name is Richard Laflash. Rich never fails to be punctual on a daily basis with a smile on his face. He has been with our store since we opened in 2015.
For YEARS, the bakery team in Sutton has been receiving scores of 100% on mystery shops because of Rich and his excellent customer service skills. It is no secret that Rich goes above and beyond for any guest in need anywhere, anytime. He is known for going out of his way to escort guests to specific products they may be looking for. If Rich doesn’t know the answer, you can be sure he’ll do anything in his power to find out!
Rich is not only great with customers, but an asset to his team as well. He is well known for keeping a pristine donut and bagel case, knowing that it is the first thing the customers see when they walk in the front doors. Rich gives so much of his time and effort to the company. He comes in early or stays late if needed. He will even periodically come in on days off to help.
Expressing how Richard Laflash is exceptional is an understatement.
Interested in joining our team? Check out career opportunities at careers.pricechopper.com!
Mocktails - Fruity, Flavorful, and Alcohol Free!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
National Mocktail week in January? That is correct! Mocktails are so delicious that they have their own week. While the weather has been dull and rainy, a mocktail will surely brighten up your day! Just about any regular cocktail can be made without alcohol and still taste just as great. The drink will still look the same, and you will still taste all the amazing, fruity flavors. We have a few fantastic recipes you can make for your next gathering, or just for yourself. See what we have in store for you!
Cucumber-Mint-Mock-jitos: The fresh taste of summer! Well, let’s not get ahead of ourselves here. We still have a few months until the warm weather sets in, but for now, we can pretend we are drinking this on a beach!
Cos-Mocktails: With only six ingredients, this mocktail is beyond refreshing. Give it a try today!
Happy National Mocktail Week!
Life is Short - Eat the Spaghetti!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
Pasta makes the world go round! Let’s face it – pasta can be paired with almost any meal, or be a meal of its own. At Price Chopper and Market 32, our focus today is specifically on spaghetti, because January 4th is National Spaghetti Day. Be sure to join us in celebrating today by trying some of our delicious recipes below. You can find a variety of pasta recipes on our Price Chopper Website and our Price Chopper Ready Website.
Did you know?
- The average Italian consumes about 62 pounds of pasta per year. That is the same weight as a female Golden Retriever!
- Sicilians created the first modern spaghetti noodles in the 12th century.
- Spaghetti today is about 10-12 inches long, but it was much longer when it was first invented.
- Spaghetti and meatballs are an American dish, not Italian.
- Spaghetti has evolved over the years. Today, you can find different varieties including gluten free, whole grain, protein, and veggie spaghetti.
Try some new recipes!
Anchovy Cacio e Pepe Spaghetti with Fried Capers: While this dish is drastically different from your traditional pasta and meatballs, you will not be disappointed. The fresh taste of olive oil, parmesan cheese, lemon, and crushed red peppers are sure to be nothing short of delicious!
Chicken Teriyaki Noodles: Quick, easy, filling, and tastes like a Hibachi restaurant!
Slow Cooker Spaghetti with Italian Sausage: Dinner ready in 16 minutes? Say less! Pair this meal with some fresh bread from our bakery.
Happy National Spaghetti Day!
Cacao, Cocoa, and Chocolate: What are the Differences?
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
‘Tis the season for curling up by the fire while drinking a delicious cup of hot cocoa. Cocoa can be used for so many different food recipes, as well as in drinks. Before we get into that, what exactly is cocoa, and what is the difference between cacao, cocoa, and chocolate? Let’s dive in!
Cacao (pronounced kuh-kau) comes from the Theobroma cacao tree which is Native to South America, West Africa, and parts of Asia. Cacao and cocoa are essentially the same thing, but in different forms. Cocoa is made from cacao, to put it simply. Cacao is the natural form, whereas cocoa is more processed. Cacao tends to have a bitter taste compared to cocoa which is sweeter.
Now that we understand the difference between cacao and cocoa, where does chocolate fit into the picture? Chocolate is made from cocoa powder mixed with other products, such as milk, sugar, and cream. Depending on the type of chocolate and where you buy it from, there may be other ingredients mixed in, such as almonds, cranberries, sea salt, etc.
Check out some of our easy and delicious recipes! Happy National Cocoa Day!
Spinach, Black Bean, & Corn Salad with Chipotle-Cocoa Vinaigrette: Who says salads can’t be fun? Try this nutrient-packed salad with a cocoa twist!
Chocolate-Zucchini Muffins: Are you a fan of muffins? Try this super easy recipe for a breakfast on-the-go!
Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: It may be cold outside, but a warm chocolate chip cookie with ice cream in the middle will make anyone’s heart melt!
Fabulous, Fudgy Brownies & More!
Mia Teal
E-Commerce Marketing Department
There is nothing better than taking a bite out of a warm, fudgy brownie with creamy vanilla ice cream on top. Brownies are so good that not only do they have one national day, but they have two! December 8th is National Brownie Day and February 10th is National Have a Brownie Day. Since today is December 8th, Price Chopper and Market 32 have so many ways for you to celebrate that you may not even realize. Some of our options include freshly baked brownies from the bakery, brownie mixes in the bakery aisle, brownie ice cream, brownie energy bars, and more! Be sure to check out our fantastic brownie recipes at the bottom of this blog.
For those of you that may be interested in making your own brownies either from scratch or from a mix, did you know that there are so many add-in options? While walnuts are the most popular addition to brownies, take a look at some other choices below!
Nuts: Chopped Walnuts, pecans, and almonds add the perfect amount of crunch to the gooey-goodness! Sprinkle in coconut for some extra flavor and sweetness.
Morsels (Milk/Dark/White Chocolate or Peanut Butter): Morsels are a great addition to add on top of the brownies or directly in the batter. If you are feeling like taking your brownies to the next level, try adding in all four morsel flavors above!
Candy Pieces or Candy Bar Chunks: You cannot go wrong with adding in candy pieces or candy bar chunks. Try M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, peppermint pieces (perfect for the Holidays!), heath bar pieces, etc.
Peanut Butter: Name a better combo than peanut butter and chocolate…If you are a peanut butter lover, try adding in ½ cup of melted peanut butter either in your brownies, on top of the brownies, or both. Microwave for no longer than 30 seconds. There is also the option of chopping up Reese’s Peanut butter cups for the batter.
Nutella: Adding Nutella to your brownie mix is a must! Just like adding peanut butter, microwave ½ cup of melted Nutella for 30 seconds and add in the batter or on top of the brownies.
Cookie Pieces: Crush up some cookies and add to the mix. Crushed Oreos work perfectly in or on top of brownies.
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are perfect to add in your brownie mix or to place on top of the batter before baking. Please keep an eye on the marshmallows as they bake – You do not want them to brown or burn!
Caramel Syrup: If you have never had caramel in your brownies, stop what you are doing and pick up some caramel syrup and brownie mix! It will not disappoint.
Frosting, Powdered Sugar, or Fruit: We have so many frosting options in our baking section. If you rather keep it simple, powdered sugar and fruit are great add-ons as well!
Magic Brownie Bars: Only five ingredients? Yes, please! The mix of chocolate with nuts will instantly bring a smile to your face!
Brookie Muffins: On a time-crunch? All you need is your favorite brownie mix, nonstick baking spray, and peanut butter cookie dough!
Red Velvet Brownies with Cookies & Cream Frosting: Bring some holiday cheer in your home with these delicious Red Velvet Brownies!
