Peanut Butter, Oat Treats Kids & Adults Will Love

Here’s a simple, no-bake Peanut Butter Oat Balls recipe that’s quick to make, full of energy,

Peanut Butter, Oat Balls

1 cup rolled oats

½ cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)

⅓ cup honey or maple syrup (omit honey if child is less than a year old)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Optional add-ins:

¼ cup mini chocolate chips
2 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseed or coconut flakes

In a large bowl, mix to combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth. Add dry ingredients – Stir in oats, salt, and any optional add-ins you like. Chill the mixture – Place the bowl in the refrigerator for about an hour to firm up (this makes rolling easier). Roll – Scoop about a tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls using your hands. It may help if your hands are slightly wet. Set – Arrange on a parchment-lined tray. You can eat them right away or refrigerate for 1 hour for a firmer texture. Makes about 15 treats.

2025-12-03T16:22:23+00:00August 8th, 2025|Categories: Recipes|Tags: , , , |0 Comments

Easy Summer Snack Idea for Moms: Peanut Butter Fruit Dip Kids Will Love!

Summer is here, and that means long, sunny days full of fun—and lots of hungry little tummies! If you’re looking for easy, affordable snack ideas that your kids will actually eat, you’re in the right place.

Here is a  go-to snack that’s quick, healthy, and super kid-friendly: Creamy Peanut Butter Fruit Dip. It uses just a few ingredients and pairs perfectly with fresh summer fruit.

Creamy Peanut Butter Fruit Dip 

Ingredients:

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

3 to 4 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

A splash of vanilla extract (about 1/4 teaspoon)

Optional Add-ins (for extra flavor):

1 to 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)

A pinch of cinnamon (for warmth)

In a small bowl, add the peanut butter, 3 tablespoons of milk, and the splash of vanilla. Whisk together until smooth. If the dip is too thick, gradually add the remaining tablespoon of milk until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.

(Optional) Stir in honey/maple syrup or cinnamon if using.

Serve immediately with sliced apples, bananas, strawberries, or any of your favorite fruits.

Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

👩‍👧‍👦 Why You Will Love it:

  • WIC-friendly: Uses common WIC foods like milk, fruit, and peanut butter.
  • No cooking required: Perfect for hot summer days.
  • Great for picky eaters: Kids love dipping—this makes fruit more fun!
  • Portable: Pack it in a lunchbox or take it to the park.

🌞 Bonus Tip:

Freeze sliced bananas or grapes for a cool fruit snack. Dip them in the peanut butter dip for an extra-yummy treat that feels like dessert but is still nourishing!

Making summer snacks doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up something that’s fun and filling.

Pick up peanut butter , milk plus delicious fruit to pair with this dip at a Grocery Services North store today.

Crispy Oven-Baked Lentils: A Simple Snack with Big Flavor

Looking for a healthy, protein-rich snack that’s satisfyingly crunchy and packed with flavor? Say hello to crispy oven-baked lentils! With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crave-worthy topping or snack that’s totally addictive and wonderfully versatile.

Lentils are already a nutritional powerhouse—loaded with protein, fiber, and minerals—but roasting them takes their flavor and texture to a whole new level. Once baked, they become crispy little bites of savory goodness that are perfect for:

  • Snacking by the handful
  • Topping salads or soups
  • Adding crunch to bowls and wraps

Crispy Lentil Recipe

1/2 cup dried lentils
2–3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Rinse the lentils and boil them in water until just tender (about 15–20 minutes). You want them to be cooked through but not falling apart. Drain well and let them dry completely—this helps get them crispy.Preheat your oven to 360 degrees. Place the cooked, dried lentils in a bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.

Spread the lentils in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they crisp evenly and don’t burn.

Let the lentils cool on the tray—they’ll continue to crisp as they cool. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

OTHER IDEAS

  • Make them spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
  • Go smoky: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a deeper flavor.
  • Try other seasonings: Cumin, curry powder, or nutritional yeast are all great additions.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack alternative or a way to elevate your meals, these crispy lentils are your new go-to. Simple, customizable, and incredibly satisfying—you might want to make a double batch!

Pick up your lentils at a Grocery Services North store today.

2025-07-14T16:11:28+00:00July 14th, 2025|Categories: Recipes, WIC Nutrition|Tags: , , |0 Comments

Fresh, Flavorful & Perfect for Summer: Black Bean Corn Salsa Recipe

At Grocery Services North, we love showcasing how easy and delicious fresh produce can be—especially during the summer months! One of our favorite ways to enjoy the season’s best flavors is with this vibrant Black Bean Corn Salsa. Whether you enjoy it with chips, spoon it over tacos, top off your morning eggs, or serve it as a refreshing side dish, this recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients and bold, zesty flavor.

This simple recipe comes together fast and uses the season’s best produce, many of which you can grab at your local Grocery Services North store. The real stars? Fresh Roma tomatoes, jalapeños, lime juice, and cilantro—produce that brings every bite to life.

Black Bean Corn Salsa

1 can corn, drained and rinsed

1 can beans, drained and rinsed (we used pinto beans)

4 medium Roma tomatoes, diced

2 jalapeño peppers, seeded, stemmed, and diced

2 teaspoons garlic (fresh or jarred)

½ medium onion, diced

½ cup cilantro, chopped (optional but highly recommended!)

Juice from two limes

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 teaspoons honey

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.Stir well to mix all the flavors together. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled—and enjoy!

This salsa keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so feel free to make it ahead of time or enjoy the leftovers as a snack or side.

Eat Fresh.

The key to a great salsa is fresh ingredients, and we’ve got you covered. Visit your nearest Grocery Services North location to find fresh produce for your next recipe —from crisp Roma tomatoes to juicy limes and spicy jalapeños.

This summer, let your meals shine with the bold, fresh flavors of homemade salsa. Grab your ingredients, and get mixing!

2025-07-03T14:30:46+00:00July 3rd, 2025|Categories: Recipes, WIC Nutrition|Tags: , , , , , , , |0 Comments

Cereal Isn’t Just For Breakfast

Cereal = Smart Snack Time!

Cereals like Cheerios, Multigrain Cheerios, and Kix meet WIC standards—so you know they’re wholesome for kids. They’re made with whole grains, packed with fiber, and stay under sugar limits, making them a great guilt‑free choice for between‑meal munching. 

Fiber + Whole Grains = Full Tummies

  • Cheerios: Made with 100% whole‑grain oats (34 g per serving) plus 1.5 g soluble fiber—heart‑healthy and filling!
  • Multigrain Cheerios: Each serving delivers 28 g whole grain and 3 g fiber, and is low‑fat and cholesterol‑free—a snack that supports heart health.
  • Kix: Whole‑grain corn puffs with about 21 g whole grain per serving, 3 g fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and iron—basic, crunchy goodness.

Nutrients That Matter

Cereals aren’t just crunchy—they’re nutrient powerhouses: iron, B‑vitamins, vitamin D, calcium—and all while being low in fat and cholesterol. They support healthy growth, strong bones, and steady energy.

Snack Hacks That Are Pure Genius

  • Sprinkle into yogurt for a creamy‑crunch combo
  • Pack handfuls in zip‑bags for poolside or car travel
  • Eat by the handful — simple, satisfying, and easy!

We carry a large selection of WIC‑approved cereals that are perfect any time of day, and make the perfect snack. Kix, Cheerios, and Multigrain Cheerios are great staples to keep on hand for healthy breakfasts or easy snack creations.

6 Simple Summer Recipes Kids Will Love

 No‑Bake Peanut‑Butter Cheerios Bars

Quick, portable, and great for picnics—no oven needed! 

Ingredients: 3 cups plain Cheerios, ½ cup peanut butter, ½ cup honey
Warm peanut butter + honey, stir in Cheerios, press into a pan, chill until firm. Cut into bars.

Cheerios Trail Mix Cups

Ingredients: 2 cups Cheerios or Multigrain Cheerios, ⅓ cup raisins, ⅓ cup pretzels, ½ cup mixed nuts or seeds (if serving to bigger kids).
Combine and store in small containers.Easy to portion and healthy—just mix pantry items!

Frozen Yogurt–Cereal Pops

Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, ½ cup chopped berries, ½ cup crushed Kix or Multigrain Cheerios, honey to taste
Stir yogurt + berries + honey, layer with cereal in popsicle molds, freeze 3+ hours.
Cool and refreshing!

Kix–Fruit Pancake Cones

Ingredients: Pancake batter, a handful of Kix, sliced fruit, whipped cream or yogurt
Make thin pancakes, shape into cones, fill with fruit + yogurt + Kix. A playful, portable twist on breakfast!

Banana‑Cheerio Frozen Bites

Ingredients: 1 banana, ½ cup yogurt melts, 1 cup Cheerios
Slice banana, roll each in yogurt melts then Cheerios, freeze.  Ice‑cream vibes, minimal prep—it’s a kid favorite!

Multigrain Raspberry‑Peach Pops

Ingredients: 1 cup raspberries, ⅔ cup peaches, 1 1/3 yogurt, 5 Tbsp honey, ⅔ cup crushed Multigrain Cheerios
Puree fruit, mix with yogurt + honey, stir in cereal, fill molds, freeze 3‑4 hrs.
Colorful, fruity and crunchy! Perfect for hot days. 

Summer Snacking Tips

⁠• Prep ahead on Sunday—bars, pops, cones keep well for quick grab‑and‑go snacks.
⁠• Kid‑friendly assembly—kids can help stir, layer, or freeze.
⁠• On the go—wrap bars or freeze pops in lunchboxes for cooling snacks.

Find Them at Grocery Services North

We stock all WIC‑approved cereals you need—grab Kix, Cheerios, or Multigrain Cheerios are just a few you can use to start making these recipes today. Store shelves are ready for your summer plans!

Creative and Nutritious Recipes Using Baby Food for Babies, Kids

From Parfaits to Pancakes, Your Little One Will Love These

Feeding little ones can be a challenge, especially when you’re short on time or dealing with picky eaters. Luckily, baby food isn’t just for spoon-feeding straight from the container. With a little creativity, those baby food jars can become key ingredients in tasty, nutritious meals your baby or toddler will love. Here are some simple and wholesome recipes using common baby food flavors.

Pick up your organic baby food at Grocery Services North today to start making these fun recipes:

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes (Perfect for Baby-Led Weaning)

1 jar Banana baby food

1/2 cup Oatmeal Cereal

1 egg

Dash of cinnamon (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and drop spoonfuls of the batter. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Let cool slightly before serving. These make great finger foods!

Fruity Yogurt Parfait (Toddler Snack or Dessert)

1 jar Apple Banana Pear baby food

1 jar Mixed Berry baby food

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

In a small cup, layer yogurt, apple banana pear puree, and berry puree. Top with crushed cereal for texture. Serve chilled with a toddler spoon.

Turkey Veggie Pasta Sauce (Family-Friendly Meal)

1 jar Turkey baby food

1 jar Mixed Vegetables baby food

1/4 cup pasta water

Small (or cut up) cooked pasta

Combine baby food jars and broth in a saucepan. Heat until warmed through and slightly thickened. Toss with cooked pasta and serve.

Baby Food Muffins (Soft, Toddler-Friendly & Freezer-Friendly)

1 cup Multigrain Infant Cereal or Organic Oatmeal Cereal

1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

1 jar (4 oz) Banana baby food (or Apple, Apple Banana Pear, or Pear)

1 jar (4 oz) Apple Mango or Mixed Berry baby food

1 egg

1/4 cup milk (or formula)

2 tbsp olive oil or melted coconut oil

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a mini muffin tin or line with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the cereal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon. In another bowl, mix together the baby food purees, egg, milk, oil, and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir just until combined (do not overmix). Spoon batter into mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let cool before serving. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for later.

With these easy and delicious ideas, you can turn baby food jars into family-friendly meals and snacks. Whether you’re cooking for a baby, toddler, or just need a quick kid-approved dish, these recipes help reduce food waste and expand your little one’s palate.

Pick up organic baby food at any Grocery Services North store today.

2025-06-23T13:30:08+00:00June 17th, 2025|Categories: Baby Food, Child Health, Recipes|Tags: , |0 Comments

Grocery Services North Now Open in Amarillo, TX

We’re excited to announce the grand opening of our newest Grocery Services North location in Amarillo, Texas. You can now find us at 1401 NE 24th Ave., Amarillo, TX 79107.

Our new store is dedicated to serving the Amarillo community with the same fast, friendly service and convenient access to WIC-approved groceries that our customers have come to rely on. We offer a wide range of essentials including infant formula, organic baby food, fresh produce, milk, cereal, eggs, bread, yogurt, cheese, peanut butter, beans, and much more.

The store is open Monday and Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. We are closed on Sundays.

We accept WIC, SNAP, Visa, and Mastercard for your convenience.

Grocery Services North is now open in Amarillo and ready to serve you. Help us spread the word and stop by to visit us soon!

2025-07-09T15:39:18+00:00May 20th, 2025|Categories: Grocery Services North|Tags: , , |0 Comments

The Power of Garlic: Health Benefits & Fresh Summer Recipes You’ll Love

Pick Up Garlic Today at Grocery Services North, Spice Up Your Next Meal

Garlic has been loved for centuries—not just for its strong, tasty flavor, but also for how good it is for your health. Whether you’re a confident cook or just starting out, adding more garlic to your summer meals is an easy and tasty way to feel better and make your food more flavorful.

Why Cook with Garlic?

Garlic is more than a kitchen staple — it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Healthy benefits of garlic, experts say, may help your immune system, heart, and help fight chronic diseases.

With so many health perks, garlic deserves to shine — especially in summer dishes where its bold flavor can elevate fresh produce. Below are some easy, flavorful summer recipes that let garlic work its magic.

Fresh & Flavorful: Garlic-Inspired Summer Recipes

Zesty Garlic-Lemon Vinaigrette

Perfect for leafy greens, grilled vegetables, or even pasta salads.

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl or shake in a jar. Let it sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors combine. Drizzle over your favorite salad or grain bowl.

Creamy Garlic-Yogurt Dressing

A light and tangy alternative to heavy dressings — great on cucumber or tomato salads.

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 small garlic clove, finely grated

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp white wine vinegar or lemon juice

1 tsp chopped fresh dill or other herbs (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste and chill before serving.

Garlic-Roasted Tomatoes

Use as a topping for bruschetta, pasta, or grain bowls.

2 cups diced fresh, tomatoes

3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper

A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss tomatoes with garlic, oil, and seasonings. Roast for 15–20 minutes until tomatoes are bursting and slightly caramelized. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Garlic isn’t just a bold and beautiful flavor booster — it’s a functional food that supports your health from the inside out. This summer, celebrate the season’s fresh produce by incorporating garlic into your dressings, dips, and roasted vegetables. Simple, wholesome, and packed with benefits, garlic is a kitchen MVP you’ll never want to be without.

Visit a Grocery Services North store today to pick up garlic.

Grocery Services North Opens 2nd West Texas Location

Exciting News: Grocery Services North Expands to West Texas with Two New Locations!

Big things are happening at Grocery Services North! We’re thrilled to announce that we now have not one, but TWO locations in West Texas, making  grocery shopping easier and more convenient for even more families.

New Plainview Location Now Open Our newest store has officially opened its doors in Plainview, TX! You can find us at 3400-A Olton Road, Plainview, TX 79072. We’re here to serve you with convenient hours: Mondays from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM and Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

First West Texas Location in Lubbock: Earlier this month, we proudly opened our first West Texas store in Lubbock. Stop by at 606 W. Loop 289, Ste. 200, Lubbock, TX 79416. The Lubbock store is open Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

Making WIC Shopping Simple: At Grocery Services North, we’re committed to making your food benefit redemption as simple and stress-free as possible. Our stores are designed to help you pick up everything on your shopping list in one easy stop. Plus, our friendly bilingual clerks are always ready to assist you during your visit.

Come see for yourself how easy shopping at Grocery Services North can be. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new West Texas locations!

2025-05-22T14:45:08+00:00March 18th, 2025|Categories: Grocery Services North|Tags: , , |0 Comments