Planning Thanksgiving Recipes: How to Make Your Holiday More Fun and Less Stressful

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and at JC Food Mart, we’re here to help you create a memorable day filled with delicious food, laughter, and fun moments with your loved ones. The key to enjoying the holiday is all in the planning—when you plan ahead, you can minimize stress and focus on having fun. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a stress-free and enjoyable Thanksgiving.

Start with a Plan

The most important part of Thanksgiving prep is planning ahead. From your menu to your shopping list to prepping dishes in advance, the more you plan, the smoother your day will go. And remember: simple dishes often work best.

1. Plan Your Menu:
Before you head to the store, take some time to plan out your Thanksgiving menu. Think about your must-have dishes, but keep it manageable—there’s no need to overwhelm yourself with complicated recipes or too many ingredients.

2. Get Your Shopping Done Early:
Avoid last-minute store runs by doing your shopping early in the week. JC Food Mart is a great place to stock up on WIC-approved foods – including fresh produce, beans, dairy, and more – all can be used for your Thanksgiving Day recipes. Check out our blog post for special Thanksgiving Week hours so you can plan your trip accordingly.

3. Use Your WIC Benefits:
If you’re shopping with WIC benefits, take advantage of your fruit and vegetable allowance to pick up ingredients for your Thanksgiving sides. Some great options include potatoes, onions, carrots, frozen vegetables, and even fruit for desserts. Beans are another WIC-approved food that make a great side dish, and cheese can add an extra layer of flavor to vegetables like broccoli. Need inspiration? Check out our recipe for  Broccoli and Cheese or try our  Stuffing Recipe for a classic side dish. You also can’t miss this vegetable platter that looks like a Turkey.

4. Keep It Simple
You don’t need to make a 10-course meal to have a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. Stick to simple, familiar dishes that everyone will love. Make a list—either on your phone or the good old-fashioned way with pen and paper—to help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget anything.

Recipe Inspiration for a Healthy, Simple Feast

If you’re looking for some healthy and easy-to-make recipes, check out these great websites that offer simple ideas using WIC-approved foods:

Texas WIC: Find healthy recipes like Apple Crisp, Sweet Potato Balls, Citrus Glazed Carrots, and Carrot Bread.
Cooking Matters: From Banana Pudding to Baked Apples, this site is full of nutritious and family-friendly recipes.
USDA: This site offers a wide variety of Thanksgiving recipes, including ideas for leftovers!

Simple Alternatives for the Turkey

Does the idea of cooking a large turkey overwhelm you? You don’t have to roast a whole bird to have a successful Thanksgiving meal. Consider making a smaller turkey breast or tenderloin, which are easier to cook and typically cost less. If you prefer, you could even skip the turkey altogether and make a different meal your family loves.

If you do decide to roast a turkey, check out the  USDA’s Turkey Cooking Tips  to make sure your bird turns out perfectly.

Enjoy the Day, Not Just the Meal

Thanksgiving is about more than just the food—it’s about spending quality time with the people you love. After your meal, take a walk outside or play a game with the kids. It’s a great way to burn off those extra calories and create lasting memories.

At JC Food Mart, we wish you a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving. Our stores will be open regular hours on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and we accept SNAP. Find your nearest location. We can’t wait to help you make this holiday the best one yet!

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at JC Food Mart!

By |2024-11-11T09:09:49-05:00November 11th, 2024|Categories: Holiday Hours, JC Food Mart, Meal Planning, WIC Grocery Shopping|0 Comments
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Add WIC-Approved Pumpkin Puree, Cranberries To Your Menu This Season

Shop Seasoning Favorite, WIC Foods at JC Food Mart

JC Food Mart stores are now offering seasonal favorites perfect for the holiday season: canned pumpkin puree and fresh cranberries.

As a busy mom, the holiday season can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance meals for the family with all the other Thanksgiving preparations. But did you know that two ingredients—fresh cranberries and canned pumpkin puree—can make your holiday dishes healthier and easier to prepare? Not only are they packed with nutrients, but they’re also versatile and perfect for adding a little extra nutrition to your holiday meals.

Here’s why these two WIC-approved foods should be on your Thanksgiving shopping list, plus easy and delicious ways to include them in your meals.

Cranberries are a small but mighty fruit. They’re loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which help boost your immune system—something every mom can appreciate, especially with all the extra holiday hustle. Cranberries are also known for supporting heart health, and their tart, tangy flavor adds a fresh pop to your meals. Best of all, they’re super easy to cook with and make your dishes look festive with their bright red color.

Canned Pumpkin Puree (be sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not the sweetened pie filling) is another great choice. It’s packed with vitamin A for eye health, potassium for strong muscles, and fiber to keep everyone feeling full. Pumpkin is also low in calories, making it a great option if you’re looking for nutritious, filling meals without the extra sugar and fat. Plus, it’s smooth, creamy, and super easy to use in so many recipes— muffins, smoothies, mixed with pasta and more!

Now, let’s dive into some simple and healthy ways to use cranberries and pumpkin puree this holiday season that everyone in the family will love.

PUMPKIN CRANBERRY BREAD

4 eggs

1 cup vegetable oil

1 15 ounce can of pumpkin puree

1/2 cup orange juice or water

3 cups of sugar

3 cups of flour

1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice

1 1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp baking soda

1 to 1 1/2 cups cranberries, fresh

Spray 2 9×5 loaf pans with cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, combine the sugar, eggs and oil. Mix. Then add in the pumpkin puree and mix.  Add the orange juice or water and mix. In another bowl, combine the flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt and baking soda. Mix the ingredients from both bowls together until just moistened. Fold in cranberries. Pour batter into prepared loaf pans. Bake for about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes or until done, when toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans.

CRANBERRY BARS WITH OAT CRUMBLE

For the crumble:

1 1/2 cup of flour

1 1/2 cup rolled oats, not quick oats

2/3 cup coconut sugar or sugar

1 1/2 sticks of butter, melted

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

1 tablespoon flaxseed, ground

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, ground

For the Cranberry topping:

1 12 oz bag of fresh cranberries

4 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1/2 cup granulated sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together the following ingredients until combined: Melted butter, flour, rolled oats, 2/3 cup of the sugar, walnuts, flaxseed, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Press into an 8×8 baking pan and bake for 15 minutes.

In a saucepan, add the cranberries, juice, zest and 1/2 cup of sugar. Cook on medium heat. Once the cranberries have cooked down, add a little bit of water and cook until it looks like cranberry sauce.  Pour this on top of the cooked crumble that is in the 8×8 pan. Bake the bars for 20 more minutes. Let rest until cooled before cutting. Enjoy

CLASSIC CRANBERRY SAUCE

Some might say that the cranberry sauce is one of the most popular sides on Thanksgiving.  It can be made even more flavorful and nutritious with the addition of spices or other fruits. This simple recipe takes advantage of the natural tartness of cranberries and infuses them with a hint of cinnamon and orange zest.

12 oz fresh cranberries

1/2 cup orange juice

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional)

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp grated orange zest

Pinch of sea salt

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, cinnamon, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 10-12 minutes). Season with a pinch of sea salt to balance the flavors. Cool and serve alongside turkey or as a topping for roasted vegetables.

Visit a JC Food Mart store today for easy WIC grocery shopping. Pick up fresh cranberries, pumpkin puree and other ingredients used in these recipes.

By |2024-11-08T09:02:32-05:00November 7th, 2024|Categories: JC Food Mart, Meal Planning, Recipes|Tags: , , , , , , , |0 Comments
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The Flavors of Fall: Delicious Roasted Pumpkin

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for roasted pumpkins that brings out all the flavor of fall. These roasted pumpkins make a great side dish or a tasty snack. You can also use them in salads, soups, or as part of a festive fall platter.

Don’t forget to save the pumpkin seeds to roast for a snack or to use to top your favorite salad.

ROASTED PUMPKINS

2-4 mini pumpkins or 1 larger pumpkin

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or sage; optional)

Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze, or chopped fresh herbs

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Wash the mini pumpkins and cut them in half from top to bottom. Scoop out the seeds and any stringy insides using a spoon. Then cut them into slices for easier roasting. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs if using. Rub the seasonings into the flesh of the pumpkins to ensure they’re evenly coated.

Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and lightly browned. You can check for doneness by piercing with a fork; it should slide in easily. Once cooled, You can now remove the skin from the outside.

Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, drizzle with balsamic glaze, or garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

These roasted mini pumpkins make a great side dish or a tasty snack. You can also use them in salads, soups, or as part of a festive fall platter.

By |2024-10-07T08:38:54-05:00October 7th, 2024|Categories: Meal Planning, Recipes, WIC Food, WIC Grocery Shopping, WIC Nutrition|0 Comments
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It’s Pumpkin Season!

JC Food Mart Now Carrying Canned Pumpkin Puree

That’s why JC Food Mart stores are now carrying canned pumpkin. It’s arriving in stores now. Pick it up with your WIC fruits and vegetables benefit.

It’s a great choice for adding fiber, nutrition and flavor to your family recipes including pancakes, muffins and smoothies. Spoon a little into your prepared oatmeal, and toddler’s also love pumpkin puree on its own.

 Here are a few recipes you will enjoy using canned pumpkin:

PUMPKIN MUFFINS

3 eggs

¼ cup peanut butter

1/4 cup maple syrup (or use a substitute of brown sugar by mixing a ¼ cup brown sugar and ¼ cup water)

½ cup pumpkin puree

3 tablespoons of vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup flour

2 teaspoons cinnamon

½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon baking soda

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease mini muffin pan with non-stick spray. Mix all of your ingredients in a bowl until thoroughly combined. Add mix to pan and bake for about 15 minutes or until done.

PUMPKIN SMOOTHIE

1/3 cup of pumpkin puree

1 banana

¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 cup milk

¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon of brown sugar – this is optional

Add  all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Serve cold.

Visit a JC Food Mart today to redeem your WIC benefits for pumpkin puree and pumpkins along with all your other WIC foods.

By |2024-10-04T10:09:49-05:00September 19th, 2024|Categories: Baby Food, Meal Planning, Mom Health, Pregnancy, Recipes, WIC Grocery Shopping, WIC Nutrition|Tags: , , , , |0 Comments
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Refreshing Tuna Fish Ceviche Using WIC-Approved Foods

Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s approved using WIC-approved foods? Turn canned tuna fish into a refreshing ceviche.

Ceviche is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s popular in many Latin American countries. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can be tailored to include a variety of fresh ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it as a topping or on its own, ceviche is a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of produce and lean protein.

TUNA FISH CEVICHE

1 can of tuna fish, drained

¼ cup diced onion

¼ cup diced tomatoes

Juice of 1 lime

½ avocado, diced

¼ cup diced mango (fresh or frozen)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tortillas

1 teaspoon of oil

Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.

Toast the tortilla (or two)  in the pan until it’s golden and crispy.

In a bowl, combine the tuna, onion, tomatoes, lime juice, avocado, and mango. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add tuna mixture to the tortilla and enjoy!

Pick up all your WIC foods at a JC Food Mart store.

By |2024-09-27T10:55:37-05:00September 18th, 2024|Categories: Meal Planning, Mom Health, Recipes, WIC Food|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , |0 Comments
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Protein-Packed Snack!

Roasted chickpeas are a delicious and healthy snack that can be made using canned chickpeas.

ROASTED CHICKPEAS

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas

(garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed

1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

(adjust all spices to your 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 degrees. 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.

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.

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.

Pick up your chickpeas and other WIC foods at JCFoodMart.com

By |2024-05-10T15:12:36-05:00May 9th, 2024|Categories: Meal Planning, Recipes, WIC Food, WIC Food|Tags: , , , , , , , |0 Comments
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Easy Family Dinner Featuring WIC Foods

Ingredients:

1 cup diced onion

2 tbsp minced garlic

1 tomato, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 jalapeno, diced

½ cup diced bell pepper of any color

1 ½ cups of rice

1 can kidney beans

3 tbsp+ hot sauce (Louisiana, Tabasco, or your favorite hot sauce)

2 tbsp Soy Sauce

Salt & Pepper, Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes, Garlic Powder

Cook the rice according to package instructions. Heat oil in a large skillet then add onions. Allow to cook for about 5 minutes then add in garlic, tomato, and celery then stir together and cook for a few minutes. Add in jalapeno and bell pepper then stir together. Cook until all vegetables are tender. Add in the cooked rice and kidney beans, stir and cook for about 5 minutes. Add in the seasonings and sauces, then cook for about 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to soak in. Serve and enjoy!

By |2024-04-05T09:07:02-05:00March 24th, 2024|Categories: Meal Planning, Recipes, WIC Food, WIC Grocery Shopping, WIC Nutrition|Tags: , , |0 Comments
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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day With Colcannon Mashed Potatoes

Serve up a bowl of good luck with this Colcannon Mashed Potato recipe.  This St. Patrick’s Day favorite features WIC-approved vegetables like potatoes, cabbage and milk.  It’s sure to be a hit with your family this St. Patrick’s Day and all year long.

COLCANNON MASHED POTATOES

3 large russet potatoes, cut into chunks

7 tbsp butter

⅓ head of cabbage, shredded

2 tbsp garlic, minced

4 stalks of green onion, sliced

1 cup milk

Salt, pepper, garlic powder – to taste

Cut 3 large russet potatoes into chunks and add to a large pot of water with salt. Boil until fork tender then strain the potatoes in a colander. In the same large pot, add about 4 tbsp of butter and melt. Add in shredded cabbage, green onion, and garlic then stir. Cook until the cabbage is wilted, about 10 minutes. Add in the potato chunks, mash with a fork, and stir. Add in the milk ½ cup at a time, along with 2 more tbsp of butter, and stir thoroughly. Add in salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Top with a slice of butter and enjoy!

By |2024-04-05T09:07:19-05:00March 7th, 2024|Categories: Meal Planning, Recipes, WIC Food, WIC Grocery Shopping, WIC Nutrition|Tags: , , , , , |0 Comments
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Black Bean Brownies

Craving something sweet? Whip up a batch of tasty black bean brownies using WIC-approved ingredients like black beans and peanut butter! Trust us, you won’t even notice the difference!

BLACK BEAN BROWNIES
3 eggs
3 tbsp oil (vegetable, olive, or avocado)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup peanut butter
½ cup packed brown sugar
⅓ cup cocoa powder
1 can of black beans (15oz)
Optional:
½ cup chocolate chips for topping
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Coat a 9×9 inch baking pan with oil or non-stick cooking spray. Drain and rinse the black beans. Add all ingredients aside from toppings into a blender and blend until the ingredients look well mixed. Pour into the greased baking pan and cook for 25-30 minutes. Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into pieces and serving. Enjoy!

By |2024-01-09T20:53:12-05:00January 9th, 2024|Categories: Meal Planning, Recipes, WIC Food, WIC Grocery Shopping, WIC Nutrition|Tags: , , , |0 Comments
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Breakfast Casserole Featuring WIC Foods Is Perfect For Christmas Brunch

You’re in for a treat with this easy and delicious breakfast casserole using WIC-approved foods like eggs, milk, and potatoes!

BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

20 oz shredded hash browns, thawed (or you can shred fresh potatoes)

1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and drained

1 ¼ cup diced mix of onions and bell peppers

2 ½ cups shredded cheese

8 eggs

1 ⅓ cup milk

Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and brown the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces, until no pink remains. Drain excess fat in a strainer.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×13 inch pan with oil or butter.

Add the hashbrowns, cooked sausage, diced onion and bell pepper mix, and 2 cups of cheese. Mix the ingredients together and spread them out evenly.

Crack the eggs into a large bowl, then add the milk and seasonings. Mix until well blended. 

Pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the pan and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 1 hour. 

By |2024-04-05T09:31:10-05:00December 11th, 2023|Categories: Meal Planning, Recipes, WIC Food, WIC Grocery Shopping|Tags: , , , , , , , , |0 Comments
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