Ham and Cheese Sandwich

It’s National Sandwich Month!

August is National Sandwich Month, and we find it necessary to give these tasty, versatile food combinations the appreciation they deserve! The first ever sandwich, as the story goes, was enjoyed by John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich. Montagu was quite the gambler, and in the heat of a 24 hour gambling binge he needed a meal that would fill him up, while allowing him to keep his focus on his game. The cook brought him slices of meat stuck between two pieces of toast, no utensils necessary and a free hand to continue gambling. The sandwich was born! Fast forward to today and the sandwich has become something of an art form. Endless combinations, varieties, tastes, and flavors for any appetite. Anything goes! Creating the perfect sandwich has turned into a battle of creativity and originality. Meanwhile, the classic meat and bread combination is the perfect bite for any situation. We took a look at some of the best sandwich additions over time and how they became associated with such a staple in many people’s diets. Tomato Soup garnished with Parmesan cheese and croutons Most people enjoy their sandwiches with a side of potato chips. But what about putting potato chips right on the sandwich? If you’re looking to add an element of crispiness to your ‘wich this is the way to go. In the United Kingdom, it’s commonly referred to as a Crisp sandwich. A Crisp sandwich is simply any sandwich with an added layer of potato chips, popular varieties include; barbecue chips on ham and cheddar, salt and vinegar chips on tuna fish, and plain chips on peanut butter. Next time you’re enjoying your favorite sandwich, throw some potato chips on there and see how you like it! Sprouts are another great addition to sandwiches! As many vegetables do, sprouts often vary in texture and taste. It’s important to understand the different varieties and which pair best with your favorite sandwich. Green-leaf sprouts are recognized by two tiny green leaves at the tip of a slim ½-inch to 3-inch shoot, these sprouts add a nice element to your meal. More commonly, alfalfa sprouts have threadlike shoots with green tops, they provide a calm, nutty flavor that goes well with your sandwich of choice! GettyImages-896409278.jpgAnother essential part of every sandwich are the condiments that complete it. Mayonnaise, mustard, and oil are all common. But what about other interesting tastes? Pesto is commonly found in Italian dishes like pizza and pasta, but it can be used in a number of ways. It works well on turkey or chicken sandwiches, and is even good on grilled cheese. How about Greek yogurt? Yes, you read that correctly. Greek yogurt pairs surprisingly well with egg salad, chicken salad, chicken, and turkey sandwiches. It tastes great and is a healthier alternative to mayonnaise. If you’re looking for a healthier option definitely give it a shot. There you have it! Try something new in honor of National Sandwich Month. Add a twist to your usual and discover a new ingredient that takes your sandwich to the next level. There are many options to explore: maybe you’ll find a new favorite!

Get Your Grill On!

Maureen Rowan Murphy, Manager Consumer Trends, Nutrition and Lifestyles

fathers day grilling.jpg 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 Fire It Up Keep a Lid on It Cook It Safe Give It a Rest Spending time with your Dad and grilling up his favorite meal on Father’s Day- Priceless!! Happy Hour Just Got a lot Closer! craft_beer It’s American Craft Beer Week and we’re celebrating! We’re proud to team up with local craft brewers in each of our Northeast states, bringing some of the best regional tastes to our stores.  Thanks to their continuous hard work and brewing efforts, this exciting week can be celebrated the right way: at home in the Northeast. Happy Hour just got a lot closer! Check out some of our featured local brewers below.   Genesee Brewery, Rochester NY  genesee We’ve been teaming up with the folks at the Genesee Brewery for over 40 years! Located in Rochester, NY, Genesee Brewery was founded in 1878 and has since become one of the largest and oldest continually operating breweries in the country. Genesee Beer is brewed with six-row barley, malt, corn grits, and hops from the Yakima Valley. They offer classic varieties such as Genesee Cream Ale, Genesee Light, and the newly introduced Genesee Ruby Red Kolsch.   Susquehanna Brewing Company, Pittston PA susquehanna Located in Pittston, PA, at Susquehanna they live and work by the slogan “Brewed Right,” pointing out their drive to make delicious beer, the correct way for their Northeast Pennsylvania customers. If you’re ever in the Scranton area, pull up a seat at the brew house tasting room to sip some Pennsylvania beer while it’s being brewed in front of you!   Woodstock Inn Brewery, North Woodstock NH woodstock inn North Woodstock, NH is home to one of the premier breweries in the state: The Woodstock Inn Brewery. Woodstock Inn was the third brewery to open in New Hampshire, and since then has grown into a 37-barrel production facility, home to two dozen year-round and seasonal brews.  Raspberry Weasel Wheat Ale and Last Chair Ale are just a couple of the many delicious options that Woodstock has available for the season.   Two Roads Brewing Company, Stratford CT two roads brewing tworoadsbrewing Two Roads was created by four friends who made it their goal to start a craft brewery. Located in Stratford, CT, Two Roads focuses on putting unique spins on classic beer styles, striving to make each taste their very own. Paste Magazine named the brewery one of the ten best in America. Not to mention, their beer has won many awards of its own, including their Belgian Style Lambic Ale at the 2016 Great American Beer Festival!   Druthers Brewing Company, Saratoga Springs NY   druthers druthersbarDruthers Brewery was assembled in 2012 and has quickly become a popular destination in Saratoga Springs, NY. The brewery contains a 10 barrel brewing system that supplies the beer. Druthers offers an ever-changing and updating beer menu, however, their seasonal brews are always a hit. For this time of year, try Brevity Wit, a Belgian-style wheat beer spiced with sweet orange peel and coriander. Made with 40% wheat, the flavor is fruity, light, and refreshing for thewarm weather.   Berkshire Brewing Company, South Deerfield MA logo-footer Berkshire Brewing Company was founded in 1994 in South Deerfield, MA. Their goal was to continue the tradition of high quality craft beer in the region, something they have definitely accomplished. See for yourself by trying their classic beers like Drayman’s Porter, a sweet, dark-ruby brown ale with hints of chocolate malt and mocha, topped off by a hop bitterness. Or drink for the season with a Gold Spike Ale, a pale golden ale with a crisp, clean malt flavor, perfect for the transition from spring to summer.   von Trapp Brewery, Stowe VT von trapp Inspired by brews from the Austrian countryside, von Trapp Brewery in Stowe, VT, puts an American twist on these mouth-watering tastes. Opened in the spring of 2010, von Trapp now brews approximately 50,000 gallons of beer each year, available year round and seasonally. Bohemian Pilsner, a two-time award winning beverage, has a spicy citrus flavor, combined with a dry, peppery finish. Also available, Kolsch Style, an ideal summer ale that experiments with German hops to create an enjoyable, hoppy adventure.   Enjoy American Craft Beer Week and celebrate our local brewers with us! We love bringing these tastes to our stores and hope to continue working with these partners for the long haul. In the meantime, remember to enjoy responsibly. Cheers! Written by Jane Golub Director In-Store Marketing Programs March 4, 2018

TROPICANA COCO BLENDS

Discover NEW Tropicana Coco Blends! Tropicana Coconut fruit blends are a light and refreshing drink.  A blend of Tropicana Juice with a splash of refreshing coconut water for a delicious light taste. Tropicana Coco blends have no artificial flavors or sweeteners.  Your favorite OJ brand isn’t just for breakfast anymore!  This refreshing drink is perfect for any time of the day and has all the nutrients of Coconut water.Tropo blends Spring and summer are just around the corner, so try this new blend of tropical juices with coconut water and dream of lazy summer days to come! Find New Tropicana Coca Blends in the Refrigerated Juice section in the Dairy aisle. Written by Jane Golub Director In-Store Marketing Programs March 4, 2018

OPRAH’S O THAT’S GOOD!

Oprah brings you O, That’s Good! – a new line of her favorite comfort foods with a nutritious twist. Oprahs O thats good Made with real ingredients and no artificial flavors or dyes, these delicious soups and sides are easy to prepare and ready in minutes to feed your whole family.  The twist is the added goodness of hearty vegetables like butternut squash and cauliflower! Find O That’s Good! delicious soups and sides in the Refrigerated Deli section. Rediscover your favorite recipes thanks to a whole new nutritious twist.    Written by Jane Golub Director In-Store Marketing Programs February 25, 2018

JUST CRACK AN EGG

It’s time to take breakfast back with a hot, new grab-n-go breakfast from Ore-Ida. Just Crack and Egg is a product as simple as it sounds.  Just open the package of real, flavorful ingredients, add your own egg, stir it up, pop it in the microwave and in less than 2 minutes you’ll be enjoying a delicious, hot breakfast. Finally!  A tasty home-cooked breakfast that’s easy and convenient.  But wait – it gets even better!  Just Crack an Egg comes in four mouthwatering flavors: All American Scramble, Rustic Scramble, Ultimate Scramble and everybody’s favorite, the Denver Scramble, featuring savory cheddar Cheese, ham, onions, green peppers and diced potatoes.Just-crack-an-egg-new-item You’ll find all four great flavors in the Egg aisle.  What you won’t find are artificial flavors, dyes or preservatives. To start your day off right, try the freshest new idea in breakfast – Just Crack an Egg!   Written by Jane Golub Director In-Store Marketing Programs February 25, 2018

LACTAID SOUR CREAM

Do you want to enjoy the creamy taste of sour cream but can’t due to a dairy sensitivity? Here is the solution: Lactaid Sour Cream!  Lactaid Sour Cream has the creamy delicious taste you know.  It is 100% Lactose free fresh wholesome sour cream.Lactaid Sour Cream Because Lactaid Sour Cream is real sour cream, you can use it as an ingredient or as a topper when entertaining in the same ways you always have except you don’t have to worry about the consequences. Lactaid Sour Cream can be found in the Dairy Aisle with all of the other sour cream items. Written by Jane Golub Director In-Store Marketing Programs February 4, 2018

A HINT OF CHOBANI 

Introducing A Hint of Chobani – 5.3 oz. A simply crafted natural Greek yogurt from Chobani made with hand-selected varietal fruits and nourishing spices for a crafted approach to wellness and taste. Mildly sweet taste. Naturally low sugar and high protein – nothing artificial.  Non-GMO, No Rbst Available in five delicious flavors: Madagascar Vanilla Cinnamonchobani_hint_of Wild Blueberry Monterey Strawberry Gili Cherry Alphonso Mango  Look for A Hint of Chobani in the Chobani section of the Dairy aisle. Written by Jane Golub Director In-Store Marketing Programs February 4, 2018

FINLANDIA CHEESE STICKS

Now the entire family can enjoy premium cheese anytime, anywhere with Finlandia’s convenient grab-and-go Snack Time Snacking Sticks. A good source of calcium and protein, they are available in three delicious gourmet flavors:  rich, sweet and creamy Gouda, a bold blend of tangy Cheddar and a smooth Gruyere and a royal marriage of creamy Gouda and sharp Parmesan.Finlandia Snack Stick These imported Cheese Sticks are free of artificial hormones and made with Non-GMO ingredients and provide full-flavor snacking for all ages. Look for Finlandia Cheese Sticks in the Dairy aisle. Written by Jane Golub Director In-Store Marketing Programs January 28, 2018

FINLANDIA SPREADABLE BUTTER

Finlandia, the world renowned premium cheese and butter maker, has launched two new premium spreadable butters, Finlandia Spreadable Butter with Canola Oil and Finlandia Spreadable Butter with Canola Oil 25% Reduced Fat, to its expanding portfolio of products. Containing more than 55% less sodium than the other leading butter brands, while still having full-flavor, makes Finlandia Spreadable Butter with Canola Oil one-of-a-kind in America.Finlandia Spreadable butter These new butters are crafted with pure, wholesome milk from family-owned farms in Finland and contain only four real ingredients:   butter, canola oil, water and milk minerals, or ValSa – a patented milk mineral salt and superior ingredient in lowing salt intake in butter. Look for both Finlandia Spreadable Butter with Canola Oil and Finlandia Spreadable Butter with Canola Oil 25% Reduced Fat in the Dairy aisle.