Labor Day weekend is almost here! For Texas WIC mothers, this occasion offers a perfect opportunity to step back, recharge, and revel in the joys of this well-deserved break.
Honoring Your Labor
As a mother on the WIC program, you are engaged in one of the most important jobs of all – nurturing and caring for your precious family. This Labor Day, take a moment to recognize the labor of love you invest in your family every single day.
Quality Time with Family
Labor Day weekend extends the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones. Whether you choose to have a picnic in a local park, organize a family barbecue, or simply have a movie night at home, cherish these moments together. Create memories that will last a lifetime and strengthen the bonds that make your family unique.
Relax and Rejuvenate
Labor Day weekend is also a prime time to practice self-care. As a devoted mother, you’re constantly putting the needs of others before your own. Use this break to prioritize your well-being. Whether it’s indulging in a soothing bubble bath, reading a book you’ve been meaning to delve into, or simply enjoying some quiet moments alone, remember that taking care of yourself is essential.
Embracing the End of Summer
As Labor Day weekend unofficially marks the end of summer, it’s a great opportunity to embrace the seasonal shift. Consider organizing a farewell-to-summer gathering with friends and family. Plan a potluck, where everyone brings a dish representing their favorite summer memory. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the past few months and welcome the autumn season with open arms.
Whether it’s spending time with family, exploring local gems, or simply enjoying moments of peace, embrace this opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate. Remember, your labor of love is worth celebrating, and this weekend is all about honoring the incredible efforts you put into your family every day.
Labor Day Recipe Ideas Using WIC Foods
Labor Day is a great time to enjoy delicious and hearty recipes with family and friends. Here are some recipes that you can make using WIC-approved ingredients, perfect for a Labor Day gathering:
CORN, TOMATO SALAD
Combine the following in a bowl:
Corn kernels
Diced tomatoes
Chopped cilantro
Red onion
Dress with a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a refreshing summer salad.
CREAMY COLESLAW
Make coleslaw using shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped apples. Create a creamy dressing using plain yogurt, a touch of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a hint of honey (optional)
CARROT AND APPLE SLAW
¼ cup of Carrots, grated
¼ cup of Apples, grated
¼ cup of Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons of honey
2 tablespoons lemon juice.
Grate carrots and apples. Mix with Greek yogurt, honey, and a splash of lemon juice. Refrigerate and serve as a refreshing side.
The kitchen can be a fun place for kids and parents to spend time together. Parents can help foster a positive relationship between their children and food by letting them help in the kitchen. Kids ages 1 to 5 are curious, eager to learn and want to spend time together. Here’s a guide on how to get your little ones engaged and having fun in the kitchen.
Safety First
Before getting in the kitchen together, prioritize safety. Clear the cooking area of any hazards, like sharp objects or hot surfaces. Use kid-friendly utensils with blunt edges, and make sure to supervise closely during all kitchen activities.
Create a Kid-Friendly Space
Set up a dedicated area within the kitchen where your little chef can comfortably work alongside you. A step stool (depending on age) can make reaching the counter easier or using the kitchen table, allowing them to feel more involved in the cooking process.
Easy Tasks
Let them get involved in washing vegetables, tearing lettuce, or stirring ingredients. Praise their efforts and celebrate their accomplishments to boost their confidence.
Engage the Senses
Cooking is a sensory experience. Encourage your child to touch, smell, and even taste different ingredients. Allow them to explore the textures of flour, the aroma of herbs, and the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables.
When it comes to stocking up your pantry with versatile, healthy ingredients, few items can rival the incredible benefits of canned chickpeas. These tiny legumes may not wear capes, but they certainly possess superhero-like qualities that can transform your meals and save the day in the kitchen. Adding canned chickpeas to your recipes can unlock a world of nutritious and versatile meal options. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a powerhouse of nutrients and offer various health benefits for both you and your children. In this blog post, we’ll explore the many reasons why canned chickpeas should be a staple in every mom’s pantry and share some creative recipe ideas to inspire you.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Canned chickpeas pack a powerful nutritional punch, making them an ideal choice for growing children and health-conscious moms. Rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, chickpeas can contribute to a well-rounded diet and promote healthy growth and development. With iron, zinc, folate, and magnesium among their impressive nutrient profile, these legumes can help combat iron deficiency and support overall well-being.
Convenient
Canned chickpeas are incredibly versatile and require little effort to incorporate into your family’s meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a busy mom looking for quick meal solutions, these legumes can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes. From salads and soups to curries and stir-fries, the possibilities are endless.
Kid-Friendly
Getting your kids to eat healthy can sometimes be a challenge, but canned chickpeas can come to the rescue. These legumes have a mild, nutty flavor that kids often find appealing. You can mash them into spreads for sandwiches, blend them into smoothies for added nutrition, or even turn them into crunchy, roasted snacks for those after-school hunger pangs.
Plant-Based Protein
For WIC moms who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet or are looking to reduce meat consumption, canned chickpeas are a fantastic plant-based protein alternative. Their protein content makes them an excellent meat substitute, ensuring your family gets the necessary protein intake for healthy growth and maintenance.
Recipe Ideas
Chickpea and Vegetable Curry: Whip up a hearty and nutritious chickpea and vegetable curry by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger with your favorite curry spices. Add canned chickpeas, diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and tomatoes, and let it simmer until the flavors meld together. Serve with rice or whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal.
Chickpea Avocado Salad: Create a refreshing chickpea and avocado salad by combining canned chickpeas with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy lemon dressing. This simple and delicious salad is perfect for a light lunch or a quick side dish.
Chickpea, Vegetables and Pasta: For a protein-packed pasta dish, toss cooked pasta with sautéed spinach or mixed vegetables, canned chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. The creamy texture of chickpeas complements the pasta wonderfully, making it a family favorite.
Canned chickpeas are undoubtedly a pantry superhero for WIC moms, offering a myriad of benefits that are hard to resist. From their nutritional prowess to their budget-friendly nature and incredible versatility, these legumes are a must-have for every health-conscious mom. By incorporating canned chickpeas into your family’s meals, you can ensure a delightful and nutritious dining experience that saves time and stress in the kitchen. So, let these humble legumes unleash their superpowers and elevate your culinary adventures to new heights!
Here are a few of our favorite recipes using chickpeas:
HUMMUS
You may have purchased pre-made hummus from the grocery store, but this dip is so easy to make at home. Plus, you can enjoy your homemade hummus without tahini! It’s a delicious and healthy dip that you can easily make using canned beans and their liquid. Here is a recipe for you:
1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and liquid reserved
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt, to taste
Water (or the reserved liquid from the canned beans) for adjusting consistency
Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans) and reserve the liquid from the can.
In a food processor or blender, combine the drained chickpeas, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt. Start blending the ingredients together. Gradually add the extra-virgin olive oil while blending to help create a smooth texture.
If the mixture seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved liquid from the canned chickpeas or water. Continue blending until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed. Once the hummus is smooth and well combined, transfer it to a serving bowl. You can drizzle some extra-virgin olive oil on top and sprinkle a pinch of paprika or chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Serve the homemade hummus with pita bread, sliced vegetables, or your favorite dipping options.
A refreshing and nutritious salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.
CHICKPEA, VEGETABLE SALAD
1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Chopped fresh vegetables (cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, etc.)
Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or mint)
Feta cheese (optional)
Dressing: Olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper
In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, chopped vegetables, and herbs. If desired, add crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl and drizzle over the salad.
Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
ROASTED CHICKPEAS
Roasted chickpeas are a delicious and healthy snack that can be made using canned chickpeas.
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (you can also use regular paprika)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: a pinch of any other spices you like (e.g., curry powder, chili powder, onion powder, etc.)
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. It’s important to remove excess moisture to achieve crispy roasted chickpeas.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. You can add any other optional spices at this point as well. Toss the chickpeas until they are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not too close together to allow for even roasting.
Roast the chickpeas in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until they become golden brown and crispy. You can shake the baking sheet or toss the chickpeas halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Once roasted to your desired crispiness, remove the chickpeas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your roasted chickpeas as a nutritious and flavorful snack. They can also be used as toppings for salads, soups, or as a crunchy addition to various dishes.
Note: Roasted chickpeas are best when served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Keep in mind that they might lose some of their crispiness over time.
Use WIC Foods For Festive Holiday Spread This Weekend
We searched our blog for some of the best recipes for July 4th weekend, all of them made with WIC foods. Here is a list of some recipes you might like to try. Of course, you can find even more on our blog.
You can never go wrong with fresh produce served up cold and fresh. Here are some of our favorite presentation ideas using in-season favorites like watermelon, berries and cubed cheese. Pick up all your WIC foods for a festive July 4th weekend at any Grocery Services North store near you.
2 (12 – 14 ounce) bags frozen broccoli florets that have been thawed, or 8 cups steamed broccoli florets
2 cups shredded parmesan cheese (or mozzarella)
2 teaspoons salt, plus more for sprinkling on top
Olive oil
Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring water to a boil and cook for 25 minutes, until fork tender but still have some give in the middle. Drain water and let potatoes cool until they are comfortable to handle. Once potatoes are warm enough to handle, remove the skins.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grate potatoes on the large side of a grater and place into a large bowl.
Place the broccoli into a food processor and blend until it’s in very small pieces, 30 seconds – one minute. You may need to do it in two batches. Place broccoli onto paper towels and squeeze all excess water out.
Add the broccoli to the grated potatoes along with the salt and mix everything together well.
Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Use your hands to form small cylinders with the mixture. Use about 1 tablespoon per tater tot. Place the cookie sheet in the freezer for about 10 minutes to allow them to firm up.
Brush the top of each tater tot with a small amount of olive oil and sprinkle each one with salt. Bake tater tots until browned crispy, about 30 minutes, flipping halfway though.
(remove seeds from jalapeno, or replace with ½ bell pepper if you don’t want it spicy)
Juice of ½ lime or lemon
1 cup cilantro
Salt and/or sugar to taste
For extra flavor, add a whole bulb of garlic to the veggies!
Cook vegetables in the oven at 425 degrees for 30 minutes, turning the veggies over halfway through. Allow to cool for about 15 minutes, then add veggies into a blender along with cilantro and lime or lemon juice. Blend until there’s no chunks, then it’s ready to serve!
CHILAQUILES
2 tbsp Vegetable oil
6 Corn tortillas, each cut into 6 wedges
2 Eggs
1 cup of Salsa
(To save time, you can use WIC approved Always Save Mild Salsa from Grocery Services North instead of making your own)
Pepper
Additional Optional Toppings – Sliced avocado, shredded cheese, onion, cilantro, or even more salsa!
In a large non-stick pan, coat generously with about 2 tbsp vegetable oil and heat on stove top to medium high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tortillas and fry until golden brown. Remove from heat and move tortillas to a paper towel lined plate to soak up any excess oil. Remove any remaining brown tortilla pieces in the pan. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan, add the salsa and let cook for a few minutes while stirring occasionally. Add the fried tortilla wedges to the pan and gently turn over until tortillas are coated with salsa. Let cook for a few more minutes until tortillas are thoroughly soaked in salsa, yet still slightly crispy. Remove from heat and move tortillas to the plates. Return the pan to the stove top and fry the eggs. On each plate, top the tortillas with the fried eggs. Top with your choice of favorite toppings like shredded cheese and/or avocado for some extra flavor!
Grocery Services North is offering two new WIC products that will help make healthy family recipes a breeze.
The stores are currently offering Always Save® mild jarred salsa and canned tomato sauce.These two new productscan help busy moms save time in the kitchen. Here are a few recipes you are going to want to try with these two new products.
Both products are redeemable as WIC foods in the fruits and vegetable category. Learn more about WIC’s expanded fruit and vegetable benefits here.
Try this recipe using our new jarred salsa:
BLACK BEAN & SALSA PASTA MELT
1 jar (16 oz) salsa
1 ½ cups of water
2 cups of elbow macaroni
1 can black beans, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Add drained black beans to a skillet. Add salsa and water and stir. Bring everything to a boil. Add macaroni and reduce heat on medium-low and cover. Cook until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes. Add cheese and cover until it is melted. Enjoy!
Here is a recipe featuring our new tomato sauce:
EASY SKILLET VEGETABLE PASTA
½ tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces)
1 cup water
8 ounces of uncooked pasta, such as elbow macaroni
2 cups fresh or frozen vegetables (ideas: chopped carrots, tomatoes or bell peppers)
½ cup grated cheese
Add olive oil to a pan and heat on medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic powder. Add tomato sauce, water and uncooked pasta. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes. Add fresh or frozen vegetables, stir and cook until pasta and vegetables are tender, about 10 more minutes. Add cheese and heat until melted. Enjoy!
A grilled cheese sandwich is comfort food at its best! Use WIC foods to make the best grilled cheese sandwiches.
Ewwey gooey cheese sandwiched between toasty bread. There is something so simple and satisfying about a grilled cheese sandwich.
Kids and adults can appreciate this meal any time of year. It’s perfect dipped into a big bowl of tomato soup or as a side to a healthy salad. Kids might prefer to eat it with a side of fruit.
Plus, this recipe is made using only WIC-approved foods: whole wheat bread and cheese. Plus, it’s a great source of protein and calcium.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and grill some cheese! WIC-approved whole wheat bread and cheeses are all you need to make a delicious grilled cheese sandwich that will satisfy your hunger and comfort your soul. So go ahead, and indulge in this classic American favorite today!
Because today seems like a good day for a grilled cheese sandwich so here are some recipes we know you will want to try these grilled cheese recipes with WIC foods
AMERICAN GRILLED CHEESE WITH WIC FOODS
2 slices of whole wheat bread
1 tablespoon butter
Cheese Slice
Heat skillet to medium heat. Generously butter one side of the slice of bread and put the butter side down into the pan. Place cheese on the side without butter. Butter a second slice of bread and place butter side up on top of a cheese slice. Cook until lightly browned and then flip until cheese is perfectly melted.
MOMMY’S GRILLED CHEESE
2 slices of whole wheat bread
1 tablespoon butter
Cheese Slice
Sliced Avocado
Sliced Tomato
Heat skillet to medium heat. Generously butter one side of the slice of bread and put the butter side down into the pan. Place cheese on the side without butter. Add slices of avocado and tomato slices. Butter a second slice of bread and place butter side up on top of the tomato slice. Cook until lightly browned and then flip until cheese is perfectly melted.
WIC GROCERY SHOPPING
Get all your WIC ingredients at Grocery Services North, a primarily WIC grocery store chain with locations in Dallas, Waco, Tyler, and Longview. Grocery Services North helps make getting WIC groceries easier.The store only offers WIC foods and clients can get in and out in one easy stop. Clients can even check their WIC balance before shopping. Bilingual clerks assist shoppers throughout their visit. Locations are conveniently located near WIC offices.
Did you make these WIC-inspired recipes? Let’s be friends. Tag us on Instagram or Facebook using @groceryservicesnorth
Easter weekend is a fun time to enjoy healthy WIC foods and get outdoors with the kids. We have rounded up some great activities and fun recipes featuring the season’s best food: eggs.
Whether you are coloring, hunting or eating them, there are so many fun ways to enjoy these nutritious little nuggets.
COLORING EGGS
Pick up a dozen eggs for your kiddos to color this Easter. We have made a step-by-step guide for coloring eggs in this blog post. This is a great activity for kids of all ages. Plus, they will love eating the results of their creative activity.
HUNTING EGGS
There is no better way to welcome spring than to enjoy some outside time with the kids in the fresh spring air. Hunting for eggs is such a fun outdoor activity for kids and adults alike. If you aren’t up for hiding colored eggs where you live, search social media for fun neighborhood egg hunts close to where you live. Another way to find a nearby egg hunt is to search on Google. Here is a search for you to see Dallas area egg hunts.Here is another search for Waco area egg hunts.
EATING EGGS
Eggs are so delicious and nutritious. It’s why they are a favorite WIC food. Here are a few great recipes to enjoy for Easter:
Whisk together eggs, milk, cheese, tomato, jalapeño, salt, and pepper. Pour into well-greased 12-oz microwave-safe mug or mason jar. Microwave on High for 30 seconds; Stir. Microwave for 70 to 80 seconds or until eggs are puffed and set. Substitute prepared salsa for the chopped tomato and jalapeño if desired.
Make this recipe from the American Egg Board ahead of time for an amazing Easter breakfast:
Simple Breakfast Strata
4 Slices whole grain bread
4 Eggs
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano leaves
6 slices Canadian-style bacon, chopped
½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese (2 oz.)
Place bread in a single layer in greased 8-inch square baking dish. Beat eggs, milk, and thyme in a medium bowl until blended; pour over bread. Sprinkle with bacon. Refrigerate, covered, at least 30 minutes or as long as overnight. Heat oven to 350°F. Remove strata from refrigerator; uncover and let stand while oven heats. Bake, uncovered, in the center of 350°F oven for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake until cheese is melted and strata is puffed, golden and firm in the center, about 5 minutes longer.
Did you make these WIC-inspired recipes? Let’s be friends. Tag us on Instagram or Facebook using @groceryservicesnorth
