Fish Recipes for Lent (or anytime!)

by katedeck, February 22, 2012 | Permalink

‘Tis the season for the traditional Friday Fish Fry, often found at a local church or in many restaurants during the Lenten season.  However, if you are trying to eat healthier, a beer battered, deep fried fish may not be your optimal meal choice.  Today we’ve put together a variety of easy and delicious fish options for a happier, healthier Friday.

Cod is a traditional fish for frying (fish and chips, anyone?), but this version still has the crunch and flavor without all the fat.  I tried this Baked Breaded Cod this weekend and it was a hit with my family!

Tilapia is both economical and mild tasting, making it a popular choice at the fish counter.  This recipe for Cajun Tilapia would be especially delicious this week, while we’re still devouring all things Creole/Cajun for Mardi Gras.

Salmon with Mango Salsa would make a colorful addition to your dinner table.  Salmon is high in Omega 3s, and the mango salsa is full of antioxidants.  Add some brown rice and steamed vegetables for a super healthy and filling meal.

If you can’t quite give up fried fish, try this lighter version of Cornmeal Catfish Fingers.  Instead of deep frying, the catfish is shallow fried in only 2 tablespoons of oil for the entire recipe, which serves 4.  It’s a great compromise between healthy and not-so-healthy, especially for fried fish stick loving kids!

Mardi Gras Recipe Ideas

by katedeck, February 20, 2012 | Permalink

Tomorrow, February 21 is Mardi Gras, which is French for Fat Tuesday.  It refers to the tradition of feasting before the Lenten season begins the following day, Ash Wednesday. We have some great recipes to celebrate, some healthy, and some containing bacon!

From the Whole Foods Market website, this Quick Vegetarian Gumbo is the perfect, filling meal when you don’t have much prep time.  Kidney beans, rice and lots of veggies make this a delicious, quick dinner.

If shrimp and sausage are more your speed, try this Simple Jambalaya.  It uses mostly pantry staples (white rice, onions, carrots, celery, canned tomatoes), so you just need to pick up some spicy andouille from the meat department and fresh shrimp from the seafood case.

Bacon for dessert?  Makes sense when it’s praline bacon!  Here’s the recipe in 5 easy steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Separate 1 pound of bacon and add to a baking sheet covered with parchment

3. Bake for 8-10 minutes until almost crisp; drain

4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon chili powder and 1/4 cup pecans over the bacon

5. Bake for 5-8 more minutes until bacon is crisp.  Serve!

New Around Here

by katedeck, February 15, 2012 | Permalink

This week, we’re spotlighting several products brand new to the Whole Foods Cedar Center shelves.  You can always tell by their tags marked “Give me a try, I’m new around here!”  Here are a few that we’ve tried, and loved!

Wallaby Organic Greek Yogurt has a super smooth, velvety texture and just a little tang.  Add some honey or preserves to sweeten it for snacktime, or use as a replacement for sour cream on top of tacos and enchiladas.  With 17 grams of protein per serving and a sale this week (February 15-21, 2012), your waistline and wallet will love it.

A few feet down the dairy aisle resides another newcomer, Good Karma Flax Milk.  It has between 25 and 60 calories per servings and contains 1,200 mg of Omega 3s, making it a sneaky way to get in those heart healthy Omega 3s without eating fish!  Top your cereal or make your oatmeal with this delicious non-dairy beverage.

Sodium conscious tomato lovers – rejoice!  San Marzano tomatoes (whole and crushed) are now available in No Salt Added.  Add to soups, stews, or make your own semi-slow cooked pasta sauce to serve over ziti.

The Specialty team is loving the new Harbison cheese.  Dubbed “fondue for one”, it becomes runny at room temperature, making it perfect for dipping.  It’s slightly stinky, and perfect with Daelia’s crackers and a sliced apple.

Heading back to Grocery, the chips & salsa aisle is filled with new products.  Of note, the company behind Popcorners took regular old popcorn and turned it into a chip!  I like these for munching on their own, but if you have any tortilla chips on hand, you have to try Guy Fieri’s new salsas.  I’ve made several recipes from his cookbooks, and this guy has serious talent for putting flavors together.

Finally, the new Larabar uber.  The regular Larabars have a fine texture, but these new ones have big pieces of nuts, fruit and a sprinkle of sea salt.  The bananas foster lives up to its name – it tastes like the real thing!

Chocolate Fest

by katedeck, February 11, 2012 | Permalink

We hope you can join us tonight for Chocolate Fest from 6pm-8pm!  You’ll get to indulge in all kinds of chocolate and other Valentine’s themed foods, including cocoa dusted beef tenderloin, chocolate dipped pineapple, spinach salad with chocolate balsamic vinaigrette, swiss chocolate fondue and much more!

If the snow keeps you inside tonight, rest assured you can make at least one dish at home for your sweetie.  Today we’re sharing the recipe for Spinach Salad with Chocolate Balsamic Vinaigrette.  Crisp greens, sweet strawberries and the irresistible chocolate dressing will be sure to impress your Valentine.

Spinach Salad with Chocolate Balsamic Vinaigrette

Serves 4

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1/2 ounce Green & Black’s 85% dark chocolate

1/2 cup olive oil

Salt & pepper to taste

1 (5 ounce) bag pre-washed baby spinach

1 cup sliced strawberries

Combine the vinegar and chocolate in a small saucepan, and heat over a very low flame until the chocolate is melted and the vinegar is reduced, about 3 minutes.  Whisk in the oil and season to taste with salt and pepper.

In a large bowl, combine spinach and strawberries.  Add desired amount of vinaigrette and toss to coat.  Serve immediately.

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, February 8, 2012 | Permalink

We’re keeping things on the healthy side with this week’s Deal Hunting. Check out a few of this week’s great deals below, and don’t forget to bring your coupons!

If you love the convenience of canned beans but don’t like that “canned” taste, try Fig Food Company’s boxed beans.  They taste just like you boiled them yourself, and are full of filling fiber and plant based protein.

Regular price is $2.69 per carton, but they are on sale this week for $2.19. If you buy three, you can use the Whole Deal coupon for $1 off, saving you 31% on three cartons!

Almond flour has been gaining popularity over the past several years as the number of gluten-free people grows.  Made of almonds ground into a powder, it can replace the flour in some recipes with great results.  Try this Almond Crusted Salmon or this Raspberry Almond Crumble.  Yum!

Bob’s Red Mill almond meal is regularly $13,99 for a 1-pound bag, but is on sale this week for $8.99 per 1-pound bag.  That’s 36% off!

Nature’s Path Organic cereals come in mouthwatering flavors such as Maple Pecan Crunch and Crunchy Vanilla Sunrise.  Several are gluten free, and they are sure to perk up your morning routine.  Regularly $4.99 per box, they are on sale this week for $3.69.  Add the $1.50 off of TWO coupon, and you’ve saved 41%!

If you missed last Friday’s One Deal Deal on navel oranges, you still have a chance to stock up!  Regular price is $1.25 each, but you will find them on sale this week for 60% off, which is just $0.50 each.

Finally, Garden of Life’s Raw Meal is a great deal this week.  It comes in powder form, which you mix with water or juice.  It was formulated to be a meal replacement, and is full of protein, fiber and lots of vitamins and minerals.  Regular price is $39.99, but it’s on sale for $19.99 this week. Add the $5 off Whole Deal coupon, which the Whole Body team members have kindly attached to the containers, and that’s 63% off!

The sale prices noted in this post are valid at the Cedar Center store from February 8, 2012 through February 14, 2012, or while supplies last.  The Whole Deal flier coupons are valid through March 31, 2012.

Souper Saturday

by katedeck, February 4, 2012 | Permalink

This is the last week of Souper Saturday, and we’re ending with a big finish – Beer & Cheese Soup!  This soup is loaded with the flavor of beer and sharp cheddar, and it makes the perfect Super Bowl appetizer.  Top with popcorn and chives, or even float a few pretzels on top.  If you’ll be watching the Super Bowl, we hope you enjoy the game.  If not, we hope you at least enjoy the food!

Beer & Cheese Soup

Serves 6

1 tablespoon butter
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 stalks of celery, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced

4 tablespoons of flour
1 cup pale ale (such as Old Speckled Hen or Bodington’s)
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup half & half
2 cups of sharp cheddar, shredded
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt to taste

To serve: popped popcorn, chives

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.  Add onion, carrots and celery and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.  Add garlic and flour, and stir for 1 minute.  Add beer and broth and allow mixture to come to a simmer.  Reduce heat and add half & half and cheddar.  Allow cheese to melt completely and add mustard, Worcestershire, ground pepper and red pepper flakes.  Salt to taste.  Using an immersion blender, blend until soup is smooth.  Alternatively, use an upright blender and blend in batches.  Serve topped with popcorn and chives.

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, February 2, 2012 | Permalink

Welcome to a new week of Deal Hunting!  We have some great deals that combine sales with Whole Deal coupons.

But first, we’ll head to Produce for two items perfect for Super Bowl guacamole making.

Organic avocados from Mexico are 33% off this week, selling for just $1 each.  Cilantro is on sale for $0.99 a bunch, which is 50% off.  Add some garlic, jalepeno and a squeeze of lime, and you have homemade guacamole!

Now onto the sales + coupons!  We’ll do these in order of percentage savings.

First, Larabars make a great portable snack.  The base of these bars is mostly nuts and fruit, and they come in flavors such as Carrot Cake, Ginger Snap, Chocolate Chip Brownie and (my favorite) Blueberry Muffin.

Regularly $1.29 each, Larabars are on sale this week for $1.19 each.  Combine that with a coupon for $1 off any THREE Larabars, and you’ll get three bars for $0.86 each, or 34% off!

If you’re looking for a healthier replacement to that late-night bowl of ice cream, Oikos has you covered!

Regularly $4.99 for a box of 4 containers of Greek yogurt, Oikos is on sale this week for $3.99 per box.  The Whole Deal has a $1 off coupon, giving you 4 delicious desserts for $2.99.  That’s 40% off regular price.  In flavors such as caramel, vanilla and chocolate, just add a few chopped strawberries and dig in!

You’ll need chips for your guacamole mentioned above, and Garden of Eatin’ tortilla chips are a delicious find.  I’ve noticed that their chips are sturdier than most, perfect for scooping up large quantities of salsa or guacamole.

The 16 ounce party size bag is normally $4.49.  But this week, it’s on sale for $3.36, and the $1 off Whole Deal coupon will bring it down to $2.36.  That’s 47% off regular price!

Or how about making nachos with those Garden of Eatin’ tortilla chips?  Just shred blocks of Organic Valley mozzarella or cheddar over a pile of chips, and bake at 350 degrees for 5-8 minutes until the cheese is melted.  Add black beans, lettuce and chopped tomatoes for a festive party appetizer.

8 ounce blocks of Organic Valley cheese are regularly $5.99 each, but are on sale this week for $3.99 each.  The Whole Deal coupon gives you another $1 off, so you only pay $2.99 per block, or 50% off!

Finally, the best deal of the week!  If you’re trying to eat less meat, or maybe celebrate Meatless Monday, give tofu a try!  Just drain the water from a package of extra firm tofu and press between two kitchen towels for 15 minutes to remove excess water.  Cut into cubes and marinate for 30 minutes in your favorite marinade (mine is tamari, orange juice and freshly grated ginger).  Bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes until golden, and that’s it!

Nasoya makes a variety of tofu, including silken, firm, extra firm and lite (lower calorie).  Regularly $2.99 per container, it’s on sale this week for $2.00.  Add the $1.25 off coupon from the Whole Deal, and your tofu is only $0.75!  That’s 75% off regular price.  What a deal!

See you next week for more great deals!

The sale prices noted in this post are valid at the Cedar Center store from February 1, 2012 through February 7, 2012, or while supplies last.  The Whole Deal flier coupons are valid through March 31, 2012.

Souper Saturdays

by katedeck, January 31, 2012 | Permalink

For week 3 of Souper Saturdays, we were inspired by the flavors of Asia.  These two delicious soups appear ordinary, but are packed with wonderful flavor.

The first is a spin on the basic chicken noodle, but instead of using shredded chicken, we used habenero chicken sausage to form mini meatballs.  The soup is topped with a crunchy Asian cabbage slaw, providing a great texture combination between the creamy soup and crunchy slaw.

The second soup is similar to pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup.  With this recipe, you infuse chicken broth with aromatics such as ginger and garlic, and then add lean pork tenderloin, shiitake mushrooms and soba noodles.  This soup is a snap to put together and would make a great weeknight meal.

Here are the recipes:

Mini Meatball Noodle Soup

Serves 4

1 pound fresh chicken sausage, without casings or removed from casings

1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon canola oil

8 cups low-sodium chicken broth

8 ounces orzo pasta

3 tablespoons distilled white vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1 cup shredded green cabbage

1/2 cup shredded carrots

4 green onions, thinly sliced

Remove sausage from casings and combine with breadcrumbs in a medium bowl. Form into ¾-inch round meatballs. In a large saucepot, heat oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned all over, about 8 minutes. Drain off excess oil if there is any. Add broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir orzo into broth. Cook until al dente, 6-7 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together vinegar, sesame oil and salt. Add cabbage, carrots and green onions and toss to combine. Ladle soup into serving bowls and top generously with cabbage mixture.

Pork Hot Pot

Serves 4

Adapted from www.foodnetwork.com

6 cups low sodium chicken broth

1/4 cup sherry (from wine department)

6 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari

5 garlic cloves, smashed

1 (2 inch) piece of ginger, sliced

4 ounces shiitake mushrooms, caps removed and

reserved, tops thinly sliced

6 ounces soba noodles, broken into thirds

3/4 pound pork tenderloin, thinly sliced

For garnish: 3 thinly sliced green onions, toasted sesame oil for drizzling

Combine broth, sherry, soy sauce, garlic, ginger and mushroom stems in a saucepan.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes until broth is infused with flavors.

Strain broth, return pot to high heat, add broth and bring to a boil.  Add noodles, cook for 3 minutes.  Add pork and mushrooms and cook until pork is cooked through, about 3 minutes.  Garnish with green onions and sesame oil.

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, January 26, 2012 | Permalink

This week, we have lots of healthy, delicious choices for the whole family. We’ve covering breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner…here’s what we found!

First, a few good breakfast choices.  Three Sisters Cereals (the bagged varieties) are regularly $3.49 each, but retail for $2.00 each this week.  That’s 44% off!  Sweet Wheat and Graham Crackerz are shown here, but we have many more choices in store.  For the grown-ups, Three Sisters oatmeal is lightly sweetened and a great way to start your day for only $1.50 per box – that’s 40% off regular price.

If you need a little more staying power from your breakfast, try mixing the Three Sisters cereals with Amande almond milk yogurt.  It’s a non-dairy alternative to yogurt, and it’s texture is one of the closest I’ve found to the real stuff!  Regularly $1.49 each, it’s on sale this week for $1 per carton.

If I’m in a rush and need a portable, one-handed lunch, I also go for a PB&J.  Lately I’ve been loving almond butter with apple butter and sunflower seed butter with fig jam. Yum!  This next deal doesn’t even need jam – it’s Justin’s Chocolate Almond Butter.  It retails for $14.99 per jar, but this week, you can pick one up for only $7.99.  That’s 47% off!  Add a tablespoons or two to a few fresh slices of bread from our bakery, and call it lunch.

To wash down that almond butter sandwich, here’s a tasty drink full of antioxidants.  It’s Sambazon Acai juice in flavors such as blueberry & pomegranate and acai chocolate.  At $2.00 each this week (41% off retail price), they’ll be the perfect vehicle to get that almond butter off the roof of your mouth!

Sometimes my sweet tooth comes on with a vengeance in the afternoon.  Often a piece of dark chocolate and a cup of tea is exactly what I need.  Tazo teas, named after feel-good words such as Refresh, Calm and Om, are on the sale this week for $3.79 per box (regularly $4.39).  Add the $1 off coupon from the Whole Deal flier, and you can score a box for 36% off retail price!

Finally, dinnertime.  San-J sauces make tasty marinades and dipping sauces for chicken, pork, tofu or even just veggies.  Several varieties, including Sweet & Tangy and Thai Peanut, are on sale this week for $2.99 each.  Add the $0.55 off coupon from the Whole Deal flier and that’s 36% off retail price.  For the side, Near East pilafs are 33% off this week at only $1.67 per box.  They’re a quick way to bulk up a meal and come in many delicious varieties.

The sale prices noted in this post are valid at the Cedar Center store from January 15, 2012 through January 31, 2012, or while supplies last.  The Whole Deal flier coupons are valid through March 31, 2012.

The Vitamix Roadshow is here!

by katedeck, January 25, 2012 | Permalink

Teri from Vitamix is back!  Twice per year, Teri graces us with her friendly personality and delicious concoctions using the super powerful high speed blender, the Vitamix.  Today, I spoke with Teri briefly.  Here’s what I found out:

- Teri makes 20+ recipes per day – soups, smoothies, shakes, peanut butter and much more.

- The most unusual thing that Teri made recently was Grape Spinach Sorbet – a concoction of grapes, spinach, bananas, cabbage, zucchini and a little honey, blended into a frozen sorbet.

- Teri travels all over the country more than 180 days per year, but her home is right here in Northeast Ohio in a western suburb of Cleveland.

- Customers often don’t realize that the Vitamix can make and freeze ice cream, cook hot soups and gravies, grind meats, and it only takes 9 minutes for water to come to a rolling boil inside the machine!

- Teri is a wealth of knowledge – ask her about why you should be eating grape seeds and why you should never juice an orange with the peel still on.

- Teri’s favorite part of her job is meeting customers.  She says that many customers who have bought a Vitamix becomes friends.  She even gives out her home telephone number and lots of “top secret” recipes if you buy one!

Teri is here today through Sunday, January 29.  Stop by to see her (she’s behind the bananas).  You can stay for 5 minutes or for an hour – she won’t do the same thing twice and you’ll get to taste lots of delicious treats!

Souper Saturdays

by katedeck, January 21, 2012 | Permalink

It’s week 2 of Souper Saturdays, and we went VEGAN this week to support our 28-Day Challengers, who are embarking on a vegan diet for the next 28 days.  Of course, you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy these soups.  They are hearty, filling and the perfect winter warmer.

The smoky black bean soup gets a hint of flavor from liquid smoke, along with the delicious black beans and tomatoes – all pantry staples!  The lemon lentil is super filling, and gets a slight kick from cayenne pepper.  Top both with crushed tortilla chips for the ultimate comfort food lunch or dinner.

Here are the recipes from this week:

Smoky Black Bean Soup

Serves 6

Adapted from You Can Trust a Skinny Cook, by Allison Fishman

1/4 – 1/2 cup low sodium vegetable stock, as needed

1 large onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, chopped

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1.5 teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

2 (15.5 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained

2 cups low sodium vegetable stock

1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes

For garnish: cilantro, green onions, reduced fat guacamole

Heat a nonstick pot over medium heat.  Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable stock and chopped onion.  Sauté until onion is tender, stirring frequently and adding additional stock as necessary to keep onion from sticking.  Add cumin and chili powder and sauté until you can smell them, about 30 seconds.  Add salt, black beans, vegetable stock, liquid smoke and diced tomatoes.  Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.  With an immersion blender, blend the soup until desired consistency is reached.  Conversely, blend half of the soup in an upright blender and add back to the pot.

Serve with chopped cilantro, chopped green onions and reduced fat guacamole.

Reduced Fat Guacamole

Serves 12

1/3 cup roughly chopped cilantro

1 (16-ounce) bag frozen green peas, thawed
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and roughly chopped
4 green onions, sliced
3 cloves garlic

1/4 teaspoon salt
4 to 6 tablespoons lime juice

Set aside 1 tablespoon cilantro, and then transfer remaining to a food processor. Add remaining ingredients and purée until smooth. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with reserved cilantro and serve.

Red Lentil Soup with Lemon

Serves 4

1 onion, chopped finely

2 carrots, chopped finely

1/4 – 1/2 cup low sodium vegetable stock, as needed

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 cup red lentils, rinsed

3 cups reduced sodium vegetable stock

Juice of 1 lemon

For garnish: cilantro, additional lemon slices, tortilla chips, crusty bread

Heat a nonstick pot over medium heat.  Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable stock, chopped onion and chopped carrots.  Sauté until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently and adding additional stock as necessary to keep onion from sticking.  Add garlic and tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds more.  Add cumin, salt, cayenne pepper, lentils and 3 cups of vegetable stock.  Bring to a simmer and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender.  Add juice of 1 lemon.  If desired, use an immersion blender or upright blender to blend to desired consistency.

Serve with chopped cilantro, slices of lemon, crushed tortilla chips or crusty bread.

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, January 18, 2012 | Permalink

This week we have some great opportunities to combine sales with the Whole Deal coupons, plus a few stand-alone sales that are just too good to pass up!

This is by far the deal of the day – Garden of Eatin’ chips for 66% off retail price!  Regularly $3.49 per bag, they are on sale for $2.19.  Combine that with a $1 off Whole Deal coupon and you can score a bag of gourmet chips for only $1.19.

You’ll need something to wash down those bargain priced chips…how about ice cold tea?  Honest Teas come in mouthwatering flavors such as black forest berry and mango acai, and contains lots of antioxidants from the green, black or white tea.  Usually $2.98 for two bottles, the sale price is $2.50 on two.  The Whole Deal coupon is for $1 off two, so you can score two Honest Teas for just $0.75 each!  That’s almost 50% off the retail price.

If cold tea in the middle of winter isn’t too appealing, we have a deal on hot tea too.  Celestial Teas are the perfect “before bed” teas – they are herbal and do not contain caffeine.  Flavors such as raspberry, tangerine, peppermint, peach will tickle your taste buds and warm you through for a low price.  Regularly $3.49 per box, selected herbal varieties are on sale for  $2.50.  Add the $1 off Whole Deal coupon, and a box of tea will set you back only $1.50.  That’s 57% off the retail price.

Lastly, two 50% off deals in the Grocery department.  365 unsalted butter is regularly $2.99, and is on sale this week for $1.49.  That’s 50% off!  Here’s a little known fact – you can freeze butter!  Just stick a box in the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator several days before you are ready to use it.

The other 50% off deal in Grocery is American Flatbread.  These pizzas aren’t your standard frozen pizzas.  Along with the usual cheese, they come in delicious flavors such as Ionian Awakening, which has asiago cheese, feta cheese, red onion and kalamata olives.  Yum!  Each pizza is regularly $7.99 each, and is on sale this week for $3.99.

Join us next week for more great deals!

The sale prices noted in this post are valid at the Cedar Center store from January 18, 2012 through January 24, 2012, or while supplies last.  The Whole Deal flier coupons are valid through March 31, 2012.

Souper Saturdays

by katedeck, January 14, 2012 | Permalink

January is National Soup Month, so we’re celebrating with Souper Saturdays!  Every Saturday, January 14-February 4, join us in the cafe from 12pm-2pm to learn how to make several hearty, delicious soups.  You’ll get to sample them too!  Today (January 14) is Chicken & Dumpling and Loaded Baked Potato.  We’ll also go over some stock making basics.

Check out our YouTube page for a quick chicken stock primer.  Here are the recipes from today:

Chicken and Dumpling Soup

Adapted from www.foodnetwork.com

For the stock:

1 (3 to 3.5 pound) whole chicken

2 bay leaves

6 springs thyme

6 peppercorns

1 head garlic, split through the equator

1.5 tablespoons kosher salt

For the soup:

2 tablespoons oil

2 carrots, chopped finely

2 stalks of celery, chopped finely

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1/4 cup flour

7 cups chicken stock

1 cup frozen peas

1/3 cup cream

For the dumplings:

2 cups flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

3/4 cup buttermilk

1/4 cup chives, chopped

For the stock: Place the chicken and other stock ingredients in a large stock pot and cover with water.  Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.  Simmer for approximately 1 hour until the chicken is cooked through.  Strain stock through a fine mesh sieve and set aside 7 cups for the soup.  Allow chicken to cool slightly and remove the meat from the bones.  Chop meat into bite size pieces.

For the dumplings: Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl.  Add wet ingredients and chives to the bowl and mix together just until blended.

For the soup: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.  Add carrots and celery and sauté until tender.  Add garlic and flour and stir for 2 minutes to create a roux and remove the starchy taste.   Add chicken stock and bring to a boil.  Let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.  Add frozen peas and bring the mixture back to a boil. Stir in cream and reserved chicken.  Using two spoons, drop heaping tablespoon size dumplings into the soup, spacing dumplings out so that they do not touch.  Cover and simmer 10-15 minutes until the dumplings are puffy and tender.

Vegetable Stock

Yield: 6 cups

2 yellow onions, roughly chopped

3 carrots, roughly chopped

3 stalks celery, roughly chopped

1 bulb garlic, split through the equator*

2 bay leaves

12 whole peppercorns

2 teaspoons salt

Add all ingredients to a large stockpot and cover with water.  Simmer for 1 hour.  Strain through a fine mesh strainer.

*If making baked potato soup recipe, reserve garlic after simmering.

Baked Potato Soup

Adapted from www.smittenkitchen.com

Serves 6

Reserved garlic from vegetable stock recipe

3 tablespoons butter

2 leeks, white and light green parts, halved lengthwise and chopped finely

5-6 cups vegetable stock

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

2.5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4 inch cubes

To serve: chopped green onions, black pepper, cheddar cheese

Squeeze garlic out of 1/2 of garlic bulb.  Mash with a fork until smooth.

In a large pot, melt butter.  Saute leeks until soft, about 5 minutes.  Add garlic and cook another minute.  Add stock, bay leaves and salt and bring to a simmer.  Add potatoes and simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Discard bay leaves.  Using an immersion blender, blend soup until a chunky/creamy consistency is reached, leaving some chunky potato mixture intact.  Alternatively, blend 1/2 of soup in a blender until smooth, and add back to the pot.  Season to taste with additional salt and pepper.  Serve with desired toppings.

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, January 11, 2012 | Permalink

It’s official.  The post-holiday blues have kicked in.  The decorations have been taken down, and the New Year’s resolutions aren’t as exciting as they were 2 weeks ago.  If I’m feeling blue, you’ll usually find me in the kitchen.  In this issue of Deal Hunting, I’ve created a meal that will perk up your week with some items on sale.

First, we’ll create a salsa.  Hass avocados and blood oranges are both on sale this week.  Usually $1.50 each, they are both 33% off of their original price – which means they are only $1 each!

Combine 2 peeled, diced avocados with 2 peeled, diced blood oranges.  Add 1/2 of a finely chopped red onion and 1 finely chopped jalepeno (seeds and ribs removed if less heat is desired).  Add a handful of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

We’ll need a vehicle for that salsa – how about tacos?  Chicken tacos would be great, but tofu tacos are becoming a new favorite of mine.  Using a $1.25 off coupon from the Whole Deal, extra firm Nasoya tofu is 52% off its original price of $2.39.  After draining and pressing tofu, saute until golden with Frontera taco sauce, on sale for $2.00 each, or 33% off original price.  I suggest the key lime cilantro.  Stuff into some taco shells and top with the avocado citrus salsa.

To wash it all down, a beer would be nice, but some nights just call for wine.  Colores Del Sol Malbec is from Argentina, and it’s 50% off this week!  For less than $10 per bottle, you’ll get fruity notes of blackberry and boysenberry, and a leathery, spicy note at the end.  If a spicy red isn’t your thing, come visit our wine department for a stellar selection of whites and some refreshing beers.

The sale prices noted in this post are valid at the Cedar Center store from January 11, 2012 through January 17, 2012, or while supplies last.  The Whole Deal flier coupons are valid through March 31, 2012.

Winter Braising

by katedeck, January 10, 2012 | Permalink

Pot roast, lamb shanks, chicken thighs…these items get braised again and again all winter.  But how about a taste of the summertime during the coldest month of the year?   Hot dogs and beer are a classic summer combination, and today we’ve braised hot dogs IN beer.  Yes, beer!  Raspberry lambic, in fact.  Sauerkraut gets braised in a smoky porter, and you’ve got a delicious sandwich, especially if served with a little German mustard.  Here’s the line up:

Beer Braised Hot Dogs with Sauerkraut

3 cups sauerkraut, rinsed and drained

3 tablespoons sugar, divided

1/2 cup dark beer, such as porter

1 (12 ounce) bottle cherry or raspberry lambic

6 hot dogs

For serving: hot dog buns, mustard

Simmer the sauerkraut, 1 tablespoon sugar and dark beer in a saucepan over medium heat.  Let cook 5 minutes.

In a separate pan, bring cherry or raspberry lambic and 2 tablespoons sugar to a boil.  Add hot dogs and simmer until beer thickens slightly, about 8 minutes.

Serve hot dogs topped with sauerkraut and raspberry or cherry lambic sauce.

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, January 5, 2012 | Permalink

It’s a new year, and a new edition of the Whole Deal flier is available!  This issue is stocked with valuable coupons and great recipe ideas.

We also have some great Hot Deals this week, including two 50% off deals in produce.  Start 2012 with these antioxidant rich produce items – brussels sprouts and blackberries.  Both are usually $2.99 each, but are on sale this week for $1.50 each (per bag for the sprouts, per carton for the blackberries).  I love to eat blackberries fresh, and I like to shred brussels sprouts and saute in a little olive oil.  Add some dried cranberries and toasted walnuts for a sweet & savory side dish.

Soup season is in full force, but why go out when you can make your own?  Pacific Naturals Vietnamese Soup Starters are brand new – just add meat/tofu and other fresh ingredients for an authentic bowl of beef, chicken or veggie pho.  Regular price is $3.79, and they are on sale for $2.99 this week.  Add the $1 off coupon from the Whole Deal, and you save 47%.

This may sound ridiculous, but every so often I get a craving for Ramen from my college days.  There’s something about those thin little noodles and ease of preparation.  We have a similar product (but without the preservatives and junk!) called Koyo that will satisfy that craving for a quick, warm meal.  Regularly $1.49 each, they are on Hot Deal for 5 for $5, a savings of 33%.

CLIF CRUNCH granola bars make a quick snack, portable snack.  There are 5 two-bar pouches per pack, and they come in flavors such as chocolate chip, peanut butter, and my personal favorite, white chocolate macadamia.  Usually $3.99 per box, they are on sale for $2.69 this week.  Add the Whole Deal coupon for $1 off, and that’s a savings of 58%.

Finally, we travel to Whole Body for a non-edible deal –  Burt’s Bees Tinted Balm Shimmer Combo.  It contains a tinted lip balm and a shimmer stick that will moisturize and add some color to your winter make-up routine.  On sale for $5.00 this week, it’s a 50% savings from regular price.

The sale prices noted in this post are valid at the Cedar Center store from January 4, 2012 through January 10, 2012, or while supplies last.  The Whole Deal flier coupons are valid through March 31, 2012.

The Art of Braising

by katedeck, January 3, 2012 | Permalink

Welcome to January in Ohio…cold, snowy days mean it’s the perfect time to simmer, slow roast, and use other slow cooking techniques.  Today we’re talking about braising, which is a centuries old method that refers to gently cooking in a covered pot with a bit of liquid.  The gentle, moist heat can tenderize even the toughest cuts of meat and poultry.

Braised chicken thighs (recipe available in this braising pdf)

Pot roast and short ribs are two dishes that are most frequently braised, but the technique can also be used on lamb shanks, chicken legs or thighs, pork roasts, or even vegetables.  Check out our braising pdf for lots of great recipes, and stop into Whole Foods Cedar Center Tuesday-Thursday this week between 4pm-6pm to taste what we’ve braised that day!

Happy New Year!

by katedeck, December 31, 2011 | Permalink

What’s your traditional fare on New Year’s Day?  Collard greens, pork, 12 grapes at midnight, or sausage with lentils are all popular cultural traditions across the world, which report to bring luck, wealth and happiness in the coming year.

In the Southern U.S., black eyed peas are considered a lucky food.  According to legend, the town of Vicksburg, VA ran out of food while under attack during the Civil War. Residents of the town discovered black eyed peas and thereafter the legume was thought to be lucky.

Today, we’re sharing a recipe for Black Eyed Pea Salsa, also called Texas Caviar.  Pair with tortilla chips for a tasty snack while watching football or lounging around, recovering from your New Year’s Eve celebrations.  We can’t guarantee it will bring you luck, but it’s worth a shot!

Black Eyed Pea Salsa

Serves 8

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 green pepper, finely chopped

1 bunch green onions, sliced thinly

2 jalepeno peppers, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered

1/2 cup 365 Italian salad dressing

2 (15 ounce) cans black eyed peas

1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped

In a large bowl, mix all ingredients. Cover and chill until ready to serve.  Serve with tortilla chips.

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, December 29, 2011 | Permalink

If you were a little disappointed by after Christmas sales this year, come check out our sale items this week – they don’t need a holiday to be a great value!

Candle Cafe frozen entrees were created by their famous vegan namesake, Candle Cafe in New York City.  Regularly $6.39, they are on sale this week for $4.19 – a savings of 34%.

Clif Z bars make a great after school or after work snack.  In flavors such as chocolate chip, chocolate brownie and blueberry, they can silence grumbling stomachs until dinner is on the table.  They are on sale for $2.69/box this week, a savings of almost 40%.

If your New Year’s resolution includes a vegan diet, swap milk on your cereal for Earth Balance soy milk.  Try the vanilla flavor to add a little variety to your morning bowl. Regularly $3.79, they are on sale for $2.79 this week.  Add the $1 off coupon from the Whole Deal flier, and that’s a savings of 53%!

While we’re on the subject of New Year’s resolutions, you might resolve to stop snacking before bedtime.  A cup of tea is a tasty replacement – minimal calories and it will leave you nice and warm before turning in for the night.  It’s usually $3,49, but is on sale for $2.50 this week.  Add the $1 off coupon from the Whole Deal flier, and that’s a savings of 57%!

Finally, our One Day Deal on Friday, December 30, 2011 is cooked cocktail shrimp.  Serve them at your New Year’s Eve bash, or just treat yourself!  Jumbo U-15 count Shrimp are $11.99/lb (Reg. $18.99/lb)and X-Large 16/20 count Shrimp are $9.99/lb (Reg. $15.99/lb).  That’s a savings of 37%.  Try them with Lou’s cocktail sauce, on sale for 25% off at $2.99 each.

The sale prices noted in this post are valid at the Cedar Center store from December 28, 2011 through January 3, 2012, or while supplies last.  The Whole Deal flier coupons are valid through January 31, 2012.

Quick New Years Party Ideas

by katedeck, December 28, 2011 | Permalink

Whether you’re celebrating at home or you’ll be out with a larger group, we have all you need to make your New Year’s Eve merry and bright.

Let’s start off with the drinks.  For the grown-ups, Toso sparkling wine is one of our top 10 wines, and a deal at $9.99/bottle.  It’s a good “middle of the road” sparkler – neither too sweet nor too dry.  And for the kids, Martinelli’s sparkling cider.  Pop the cork(s) at midnight and everyone can celebrate.

For the appetizers, cheese lovers will devour these ideas.  The fondue kit is simply heat and eat.  Pair it with pumpernickel and crudite.  The blue cheese bonbons and stuffed dates just need a simple white platter and the appetizers are done!

If you would rather mingle with your guests than slave over a hot stove, enlist our Prepared Foods team to help you out.  You can pick up an assortment of delicious appetizers and entrees from the Prepared Foods case – just heat up and serve on your own dishes, and no one will know.  Just remember to recycle the containers before your guests arrive!

If you’re headed somewhere for the big bash, don’t forget a hostess gift!  Our Specialty department has as assortment of cheese boards, knives and bamboo cutting boards.  Pick up a gift bag, add a wheel of brie, and you have the perfect thank-you.

Cakes and other sweets are commonly served on New Years’, with a special emphasis placed on round items, which symbolize the cycle of a new year.  Our Bakery department is stocked with round items – cakes, pies, cookies and more.  This cannoli cake is round, tasty AND beautiful.

We wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year!

Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire…

by katedeck, December 24, 2011 | Permalink

They look so tempting, sitting in the Produce department.  The modest chestnut waits all year for its time to shine, and today we’re spotlighting this seasonal treat.

You can learn how to roast chestnuts from this video on our YouTube page.  Then we made a simple salad with the roasted chestnuts, which will be an impressive side or appetizer for your hungry dinner guests.

1 (5 ounce) container mixed greens

1/2 cup dried cherries

10-12 chestnuts, roasted and chopped

1/3 cup Tessie Mae’s balsamic vinaigrette

Optional: crumbled goat cheese

Toss all ingredients in a large bowl.  Serve.  Top with goat cheese if desired.

How to Shuck an Oyster

by katedeck, December 22, 2011 | Permalink

Oysters are an impressive treat for your family or for your guests.  This week, on our YouTube channel, we show you how to shuck an oyster in a video starring Elliot and Kate.

After shucking the oysters, you’ll need a tasty topping.  Try this cucumber mignonette, which adds some Asian flair to your oysters.

Cucumber Mignonette

1 cup rice wine vinegar

1 shallot, minced

1 teaspoon garlic, minced

1/2 cucumber, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste.

Whisk ingredients together.  Serve a small spoonful on top of each raw oyster.

Hot In Cleveland – the December Edition

by katedeck, December 21, 2011 | Permalink

Just in time for the holidays, here’s a list of the new and notable at Whole Foods Cedar Center this month!

Citrus is back!  December marks the beginning of several months of juicy oranges, tart red grapefruit and other unique varieties.  These fruits truly make winter more livable in cold, snowy Cleveland.  Try a pummelo, which is larger than a grapefruit but not quite as tart.  Its large size is meant for sharing, perfect around the holidays.

This is an Italian tradition, but my German family is quickly adopting panettone as a breakfast treat.  This sweet bread is similar to challah, but studded with raisins and candied orange peel.  Lightly toasted with a little butter, it’s a light breakfast when a big day of eating awaits.

What’s December without a cup of cheer?  We have traditional and vegan eggnog, pumpkin spice nog and my favorite, chocolate mint nog.  A cup on a snowy evening is sure to warm you up.

Hosting Christmas dinner or another holiday get-together?  Our holiday table has you covered.  Just place an order 48 hours in advance for ham, brisket, shrimp platters, cheese platters and more.  Even easier, order online from the comfort of your home.

Finally, unwind from holiday stress with one of our growlers of beer.  Several seasonal varieties are on tap now, including the famed Great Lakes Christmas Ale!

Recipe: Arugula Salad with Feta & Pomegranates

by katedeck, December 17, 2011 | Permalink

Pomegranates are a classic seasonal treat.  You can eat them by the spoonful, or try this delicious seasonal salad.  You can also see a video demonstration of this salad, along with how to open a pomegranate on our YouTube channel.

Arugula Salad with Feta & Pomegranates

1 (5 ounce) package baby arugula

1/3 cup feta cheese

seeds of 1 pomegranate

1/3 cup Tessie Mae’s lemon garlic dressing, or your favorite lemon vinaigrette

salt and pepper to taste

Toss all ingredients in a large bowl.  Serve.

Stocking Stuffers

by katedeck, December 15, 2011 | Permalink

You’ve made a list and checked it twice, but are you still coming up short for a few people on your gift list?  Today we head to Whole Body for some small gift ideas, perfect for stockings, teachers, baby-sitters, or gift exchanges.

Festive and functional, these lip balms are the perfect stocking stuffer.

Ember Arts partners with women in Uganda to create unique jewelry using recycled paper and plastic.  Their earrings, bracelets and necklaces are great conversation pieces.

More unique jewelry…these earrings by Eclectic Earth are sure to delight the recipient.  Or buy a pair for yourself – you deserve it!

Honey coconut, sugar grapefruit, mandarin tea…these love + toast lotions are brand new to Whole Foods and smell as delicious as they sound.

Downward dog more like falling down dog?  Get these hand and foot grips for the yogi in your life.

After the holidays are over, relax with a candle by Terra Essential Scents.  The soy wax makes for a long, clean burning time and they come in a large variety of scents.

Demystifying citrus

by katedeck, December 13, 2011 | Permalink

Grapefruits, navel oranges, clementines…chances are you’ve already gotten lots of Vitamin C this season from these citrus fruits.  But what about pummelos, kumquats and buddha’s hands?  These three unique citrus fruits are all currently in stock at Whole Foods Market Cedar Center, and are sure to spice up your winter fruit repertoire.

The pummelo is the largest fruit in the citrus family.  It’s an ancestor of the grapefruit, but is sweeter and firmer.  The thick rind is easy to peel and can be either green or yellow.  The inside is a vibrant pink, and usually contains 11-18 segments, making it perfect for sharing!

From the largest to the smallest, kumquats are the little gold gem of the citrus family.  The center is somewhat tart and the peel is perfectly edible and even sweet!  The best way to eat it is to roll the kumquat between your fingers briefly to release the essential oils.  Eat out of hand, use as an edible garnish for salads, candy it, or make jam.

I can’t get over how cool these are!  These citrus fruits are called Buddha’s Hands.  Just standing near these fruits and you can smell the bright, clean, citrusy flavor.  They typically contain little to no flesh.  The fingers can be sliced pith, peel and all (the pith is not bitter as normally the case with citrus), and used in salads or with seafood.   Or get rid of your air freshener and use one of these beauties instead!

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, December 8, 2011 | Permalink

Today we have a bundle of half price deals!  Buy one get one, 5 for $5 sales and sales + coupons equals some great bargain hunting this week.*

Large red grapefruits from Texas are 5 for $5, almost 50% savings from the regular price of $1.99 each.  Cut in half, sprinkle with brown sugar and broil briefly for a tart, caramelized treat.

Vermont Creamery Cultured Butter is richer and creamier than regular butter, and is compared to European style butters with its higher butterfat content.  It is made similarly to yogurt, though it does not have any of the tang.  Usually $5.99 each, it’s on sale for $3.00, a savings of almost 50%.  It’s available in lightly salted and unsalted.

Reese Water Chestnuts are on sale for $0.99 per can this week, almost 50% off the regular price of $2.00 per can.  Try them in stir fries, stuffing or this East Meets West Guacamole from the Whole Foods Market recipe collection.

Dream Non-Dairy Rice Beverage (several varieties) is on sale for $2.50 each this week.  Apply the $1 coupon from the Whole Deal flier, and you’ve got a tasty dairy alternative for $1.50 each – almost 50% off the regular price of $2.99.

Finally, De Cecco pasta is buy one get one free this week.  That’s a savings of $2.79 if you buy two.  Spaghetti, linguine, penne and others…this is your chance to stock your pantry for in-a-hurry dinners this winter!

We’ll be back next week with more deals!

*While the Whole Deal coupons are valid through January 31, 2012, the sales mentioned in this post are only good from Wednesday, December 7 through Tuesday, December 13, or while supplies last.

Sparkling Pear Apple Cider

by katedeck, December 8, 2011 | Permalink

Tonight we had our annual December holiday tasting at the store, and served this Sparkling Pear Apple Punch.  It was a hit!  The punch looks so festive with cranberries floating in it.  And you could add a sprig of rosemary to each glass for a beautiful green garnish.

Sparkling Pear Apple Cider

1 bottle Martinelli’s sparkling cider, chilled

3 cups pear nectar, chilled

3 cups seltzer, chilled

1/3 cup fresh cranberries, rinsed

Stir together sparkling cider, pear nectar and seltzer in a pitcher.  Add cranberries for garnish and serve.

Chocolate Covered Brie Bonbons

by katedeck, December 6, 2011 | Permalink

Brie and chocolate??  Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!  This salty/sweet combination is sure to impress your party guests.

Chocolate Covered Brie Bonbons

1 350-gram wheel Isigny brie

12 ounces dark, semi-sweet or milk chocolate (I used Callebaut semi-sweet from Specialty department)

3 teaspoons canola oil

Murray River Flake salt (from Specialty department), or other fleur de sel

Put brie into the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up (this makes it easier to slice).  Meanwhile, melt chocolate and canola oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring often.  Take care to only heat the chocolate enough to melt it (chocolate that is too hot will melt the brie and not firm up properly).

Slice brie into bite-size pieces, removing the rind as you slice.  Dip into melted chocolate using two forks, coating the entire piece of brie.  Place on parchment or wax paper.  Sprinkle with Murray River Flake salt or fleur de sel.  Let sit until chocolate is firm, or place in the refrigerator to speed up the process.  Enjoy at room temperature.

Here’s a photo of my makeshift double boiler.  You definitely don’t need any fancy equipment for this – just a pot of simmering water with a metal bowl on top.

Let us know if you make these!

Spotlight on Olive Oils

by katedeck, December 4, 2011 | Permalink

Check out the newest video on our YouTube page.  It’s a quick tutorial on several of our olive oils – three delicious dipping oils and a lemon finishing oil.  Serve with a baguette, a sprinkle of parmesan and cracked black pepper, and you have an impressive appetizer for your next get-together.

A very brief video is posted here.   There are several other videos from us too – learn how to make panettone french toast, satsumas & fennel salad, how to choose winter squash, and more!

Satsumas are here!

by katedeck, December 2, 2011 | Permalink

Navel oranges, grapefruit, clementines…citrus season is officially here.  This month, we’re crazy about a particular variety of citrus – the satsuma!

Satsumas are super sweet cousins of the clementine.  They are easy to peel and don’t contain seeds, so they are ideal for packed lunches, quick snacks or recipes.  They are also beautiful additions to your holiday centerpiece.  Satsumas, pomegranates, a few sprigs of holly, and you’re done!

Back to the citrus.  Here are two wonderfully seasonal recipes using satsumas.

Satsuma Panettone Parfaits are taken from the Whole Foods recipe collection.  Panettone is sold in our bakery, and is a traditional Italian sweet bread studded with raisins and candied orange peel.  It is delicious toasted with a little butter, or in a parfait like this one.

Satsuma and Panettone Parfaits

Serves 4

3 cups lightly packed cubed panettone (3/4 inch cubes)

4 satsumas, peeled and broken into segments

32 ounces nonfat vanilla yogurt

1/4 cup sliced almonds, for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Spread panettone cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes until toasted.  Set aside to cool.

Layer panettone cubes, satsumas and yogurt into four tall glasses.  Garnish with sliced almonds and serve.

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Satsuma and fennel salad is our spin on Zack Bruell’s delicious creation at L’Albatros, one of his popular Cleveland restaurants.  The orange juice mellows the fennel nicely, and the parmesan cheese and kalamata olives add a salty bite to the dish.  This would be an impressive first course at your next dinner party.  View a step-by-step video on our YouTube page here or check out the recipe below.

Satsuma and Fennel Salad

Serves 6

3 tablespoons Satsuma or orange juice

1/4 cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 medium fennel bulb, trimmed, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced

4 satsumas, peeled and broken into segments

1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced

1/3 cup shaved parmesan cheese

1/3 cup pitted kalamata olives, roughly chopped

In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, salt and pepper to make a dressing.  In a large bowl, toss together remaining ingredients, and drizzle with dressing.  Divide among 6 plates and serve.

What’s your favorite recipe using citrus?  Share in the comments!

Deal Hunting

by katedeck, December 1, 2011 | Permalink

Our Whole Deal flier is one of my favorite resources at Whole Foods.  It’s available at the Customer Service booth and online, and is filled with recipe ideas, new products, cooking tips and best of all, coupons!

Did you know that sometimes items go on sale AND there is a valid coupon for them?  Score!  These are a few of my favorite deals this week.*

In order of percentage savings…here’s the countdown!

5. This one is Friday ONLY – it’s a 5 lb. box of satsumas for $4.99 (regularly $7.99/box).  That’s a 38% savings!   We will be sampling two recipes on Friday to celebrate the sale – panettone satsuma parfaits and satsuma & fennel salad.  The latter is our own twist on Zack Bruell’s delicious dish from L’Albatros.

4. Bonne Maman jams from France are a tasty addition to your morning toast.  Regularly $4.49 each, they are on sale this week for $2.50 each.  That’s a savings of over 44%!

3. Pacific Naturals Soups (selected varieties) are regularly $2.99 each.  They are on sale this week for $2.50 each, coupled with the $1 coupon from the Whole Deal brings them to $1.50 each.  That’s a savings of almost 50%!

2. Jazz up your winter fruit repertoire with blackberries (5 ounce) from Mexico!  Usually $3.99 per 5 ounce container, they are on sale for $2 per container.  That’s a savings of almost 50%!

1. Just in time for holiday baking, several varieties of Arrowhead Mills flours are on sale this week.  Two pound bags of organic spelt and buckwheat flours are on sale for $3.50 each and white and brown rice flours are on sale for $2.99 each.  Apply the $1.00 off one Arrowhead Mills baking product from the Whole Deal, and that’s a savings of 56% and 60%, respectively!

Stay tuned for the next edition with new bargains!

*While the current coupons are good through January 31, 2012, remember that the sale prices are only good through Tuesday, December 6 at the Cedar Center store, or while supplies last.

Getting to Know…Winter Squash

by katedeck, November 29, 2011 | Permalink

You’ve heard of acorn and butternut squash, but what about some of the lesser known varieties?  Sweet dumpling, buttercup, delicata and kabocha squash are all available now in our Produce department!

Sweet dumpling squash looks like a mini, multi-colored acorn squash.  Their small size makes them ideal for stuffing.  Roast until tender, stuff with couscous or rice and impress your family with an easy weeknight meal.

Buttercup squash is sweeter than most winter squash varieties.  It can replace sweet potatoes in many recipes, and is perfect for roasting, baking and mashing.  Steam peeled wedges until tender, mash and add a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delicious side dish.

Delicata is a favorite squash for roasting.  It has a sweet, tender flesh and the edible skin melts in your mouth.  Just cut the squash lengthwise and remove seeds.  Cut into half moons, toss with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast for 20-30 minutes until tender.

Kabocha squash is also known as a Japanese pumpkin.  It is relatively new to the US, and is great roasted or steamed.  It is also tasty in soups, either in chunks or pureed.

Tell us…what’s your favorite squash?  Do you eat any of the squash we mentioned or just decorate with them?  :)

Black Friday gift guide

by katedeck, November 25, 2011 | Permalink

Skip the mall and the crowds today and do your holiday shopping at Whole Foods!  We don’t open at midnight, but we’ll be here at 8am sharp for the early birds.  Today we have some great gift ideas for everyone on your shopping list.

Cupbake bath bombs, goats’ milk soaps and body scrubs are great gifts for sisters, moms and teachers.  We have a variety of delicious looking and smelling soaps that also make perfect stocking stuffers.

The hostess of  your next holiday party will love anything from this wall of goodies behind the cheese case.  Fig jam, quince paste, rainforest crackers,  chocolate covered almonds, local honey and more.  Or how about chocolate truffles, chocolate covered marshmallows and fleur de sel caramels from the Specialty department??

The scarves, hats and gloves in Whole Body are SUPER soft.  We have critters on them for kids, or solids and elegant bows for adults.  Keep your loved ones warm, comfortable and stylish this winter.

Since the weather is so temperate this week, get your tree and other greenery before the snow and ice are here to stay!  We have stately Frasier firs, gorgeous pinecone swags and festive wreaths for easy holiday decorating.

Or get a holiday bundle – it includes one 7-8′ frasier fir tree, one 36″ table top tree, one 20″ white pine garland and one 24″ noble wreath.  That’s four items for $79.99, a savings of $14.99!

Last Minute Thanksgiving Ideas

by katedeck, November 23, 2011 | Permalink

It’s not all about the food on Thanksgiving, but it sure does make for a great holiday!  Here are a few last minute ideas to surprise your guests or hostess tomorrow.

Check out these goodies from the bakery – how cute is that cupcake turkey?

Did you remember to dry out the bread for your stuffing?  If not, we completed this step for you to ensure a moist, delicious stuffing this year.  Available in gluten free too!

Give the kids a little bubbly this year…non-alcoholic bubbly of course!  Martinelli’s sparkling cider is a non-alcoholic drink that comes in several flavors.  The kids will be thrilled that they get an “adult” drink this year.  Also great for underage New Years’ celebrations!

And yes, it isn’t all about the food.  This week is the perfect time to reflect on all of life’s blessings.  We’re thankful for family, friends, health, and customers like you!  What are you thankful for this year?

Hot in Cleveland – the November edition

by katedeck, November 21, 2011 | Permalink

We’re in full holiday mode here, helping you prepare for Thanksgiving and the December holidays.  Today we’re highlighting a few special items and events in the store this month.

Have you seen the new “Cookie Bar” near the bakery??  It features mouthwatering shortbreads and cookie sandwiches (caramel between two snickerdoodles, anyone?).  Perfect for a holiday party, a meeting, afternoon tea or just a little pick-me-up!

If apples are the king of fall produce, pears should be crowned queen.  Their flavor is best in the fall, when they’re being picked off the trees in Northeast Ohio.  Bartlett pears are often the sweetest and juiciest, so they are ideal for eating out of hand once their skin turns yellow.  Bosc pears are a popular dessert pear for poaching or adding to cakes or breads.  D’Anjou pears are great for either use, and their skins stay bright green even after ripening.

What’s so special about Icelandic lamb?  Those lambs live a pretty plush life!  They roam free over highland pastures, glaciers and mountains, and graze on sedge, willow, thrift, moss, berries and wildflowers (yum?).  And of course, the lambs are never given antibiotics or added hormones.  The meat is exceptionally tender and leaner than most lamb.  It’s only available for a limited time, so delight your guests with lamb chops for your holiday celebration!

Never roasted a turkey before?  Never fear!  Our Thanksgiving menu features precooked turkeys – just heat and serve!  You have until Monday, November 21 at 8pm to order in-store at our holiday table or online.  We also have uncooked turkeys, sides, desserts, cheese platters and other tasty appetizers.

Stay tuned for the December edition focusing on gifts for under $10!

Thanksgiving Countdown: 5 Days

by katedeck, November 19, 2011 | Permalink

With only 5 shopping (and cooking!) days left until Thanksgiving, do you have everything you need for your celebration?  Here are a few essentials that you may be missing.

Add some major flavor to your bird with Bill Barron’s Turkey Brine & Herb Kit.  Brine for one hour per pound of turkey, and enjoy a juicier turkey on Thanksgiving.

Herbs and spices don’t last forever – when is the last time you cleaned out your spice cabinet?  On average, spices need to be replaced every 12 months for maximum flavor and freshness.

The turkey will be dressed with herbs, and the sweet potatoes dressed with marshmallows, but have you thought about how to dress your table?  We have a diverse selection of flower arrangements to make your holiday table stand out.  Or let us create a custom arrangement using your color scheme.

If you’re not hosting Thanksgiving, have you thought of the perfect hostess gift yet?  Our spiced nuts would be a wonderful surprise for the busy cook.  She (or he!) will thank you for your thoughtfulness, and for the delicious treat!

Welcome…and a recipe!

by katedeck, November 17, 2011 | Permalink

Welcome to the Whole Foods Market Cedar Center store blog!

We will use this blog to inform you of upcoming events, share delicious recipes and new products, and to let you know what’s happening in our store.  Glad you came by to check us out!

To kick things off, here’s a fun recipe for holiday entertaining.  It’s one week until Thanksgiving, so we hope you’ve ordered your turkey and sides through our holiday table or online.  We’re still taking orders through Monday evening, so it’s not too late!

But have you thought about what to feed your guests while you’re waiting for the turkey to get out of the oven?  Try these “devils on horseback” – a healthier take on the traditional stuffed date.  They’re made with turkey bacon and dark chocolate instead of the traditional pork bacon and cheese.  You can bake them ahead of time and warm to serve, or stick them on another oven rack while the turkey finishes cooking.

Turkey Bacon Wrapped Dates

Serves 8 (2 dates per person)

1 package Koch turkey bacon (8 slices)

16 medjool dates, pitted

16 marcona almonds

2 oz. Green & Black’s 85% extra dark chocolate

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Slice turkey bacon slices in half.  Stuff each pitted date with an almond and a small piece of chocolate.  Dust very lightly with cayenne pepper.  Roll one half slice of turkey bacon around each filled date and secure with a toothpick.  Bake for 30-35 minutes, turning once, until the turkey bacon is crispy.

Let us know if you try these – they would be great for December holiday entertaining too!