Winter Field Guide 2023 - Issue 41

The New Year is practically synonymous with setting new goals, but Constant Improvement is a huge part of Nugget Markets’ culture year-round! Both on and off the clock, we like to reach high, encourage one another and celebrate the wins. From personal dreams to professional accomplishments and more, whatever you’re aiming to achieve, a major key to attaining any goal is BALANCE.

Our Nugget Markets family is full of inspiring goal-getters, and we’d like to share a few stories about amazing associates who have been practicing balance to pursue their goals with confidence, make their dreams a reality

along the way. From family to fitness and so much more, there’s no better time than today to get after it!

– Chris Carpenter, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michelle Leal

Eric Warren

COPYWRITING

Lydia Humburg

Marisa Hicks

CORPORATE CHEF DE CUISINE

Casey Aaseth

MARKETING MANAGER

Marisa Hicks

PHOTOGRAPHY

Victoria O’Brien

Eric Warren Michael Sylvester

PLANT DESIGN

Susi DeStefani

EDITING

Lydia Humburg

Phil Benson

SENIOR WEB DEVELOPER

Mark Eagleton

FOLLOW US!

A Nugget Markets Production MMXXIII Nugget Market, Inc. All rights reserved.

Not all items featured in this publication are available at all stores. We reserve the right to correct all printed and typographical errors.

Mayette F. started her fitness journey in 2003 to lose some extra weight, and by 2006 she joined the competition circuit for bodybuilding! She found the balance of having a full-time job in our Produce Department at the Davis (Covell) Nugget Markets while pursuing her passion and has competed at more and more competitive levels over the years. Even after a recent 4-year hiatus, she came back as a grandmother to compete in her highest level yet, ultimately winning 1st place in the open class physique category! Next stop, nationals!

fter realizing his health wasn’t where he wanted it to be, Randy E. committed to a complete overhaul of his habits so he could lead a longer, healthier life. Since then, he’s lost nearly 60 pounds and has partnered with his wife to completely change their lifestyle with cooking healthy meals at home, cutting back on alcohol and being active every day. At work, Randy is the Meat Manager and a top performer at our Corte Madera Nugget Markets, and he also balances his time to work out and coach his son’s Little League team!

Rodney B. and his wife, Jenny, have always wanted a big family and were blessed to have their daughter, Jia. After being told it wouldn’t be possible to have any more kids, Rodney and Jenny embarked on a journey of foster care that has transformed their lives and those of 40 children, including Nicholas, Trinity, Peter and Mark whom they adopted in 2019 and 2020! Rodney balances his time as devoted dad with leading more than 100 associates as Store Director at our Woodland Nugget Markets. He’s also been the recipient of our company’s highest honor, the Mack Stille Legacy Award!

Mayette F. took on competitive bodybuilding as a grandmother!

Randy E. committed to healthier habits and a complete lifestyle change!

Rodney B. and his family celebrated their children's adoptions with a trip to Disneyland!

“Self-talk starts the day before. Choose to start with good energy. Make time for the things that matter most and focus on those with intensity.”

— Mayette F.

A

“My real goal was and is the lifestyle change. It’s given me the energy to keep up with all the things I enjoy and want to focus on.”

— Randy E.

“I use my morning time alone to get in the right mindset. I take it a day at time and look at all my blessings to get the most out of life and make a difference.”

— Rodney B.

Meal Planning 101

One of the best ways to waste less time, food and money is to make your own meal plan! By making your weekly menu ahead of time, planning your shopping list around it and maximizing your time in the kitchen, you can make good home cooking easier, tastier and more fun than ever. Whether you’re a meal planning pro or just getting started, use these tools of the trade, delicious, semi-homemade recipes and time-saving tips to help make a habit that can last past February. Without further ado, let’s get cooking!

• Start your weekly menu planning by seeing what’s on sale and newly in season for inspiration.

• Then check to see what you already have on hand in your fridge, pantry and freezer.

• Pick out a few recipes based on the ingredients you have or plan to purchase, taking into account prep time you’ll have available each day.

• For added flexibility, mark one or two meals later in the week as “Fridge Clean Out.” If you don’t have any leftovers to use up, you can use a frozen meal you’ve made ahead of time (see p. 14).

• Write your shopping list based on your menu and current inventory.

• Add items that aren’t on the menu (shampoo, snacks, etc.) to your shopping list throughout the week so you don’t forget.

• Before you head out, double check to see if you’re low on essentials (like coffee!).

• Tear off the shopping list and head to your local Nugget Markets!

Make Your Own Menu

Make meal planning easy with our custom Magnetic Menu Planning Pad! This handy tool includes 52 tear-off sheets, one for every week of the year, perforated down the middle so you can keep your menu on display while taking your shopping list with you on your next trip to Nugget Markets. Scan the QR code to see what's on sale, then start planning your next culinary masterpiece!

semi-homemade recipes & time-saving tips

pro tips

version, either leave out the sausage or replace with your favorite plant-based protein.

PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 10–15 MINUTES

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound Fresh to Market

Italian Sausage, bulk

• ½–1 teaspoon chili flakes

• ½ cup carrots, small diced

• ½ cup celery, small diced

• ½ cup onion, small diced

• 2 tablespoons Dorot Gardens

Crushed Garlic

• ¼ cup white wine

1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans

Dorot Gardens

Salt and pepper, to taste

PREPARATION

Heat a 4-quart sauce pot on medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until well browned. Remove sausage from pan, leaving any rendered fat.

Add chili flakes, carrots, celery, onion and garlic to the pan and sauté for 5–6 minutes, until beginning to brown. Deglaze with white wine, then reduce by ¾

Add the chicken broth and cannellini beans and bring to a boil. Add spinach and basil and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

From Our Meat Department Fresh to Market Italian Sausage

Handcrafted in-store daily by our talented butchers, these premium sausages are made with only fresh, never frozen ingredients and all-natural seasonings with no added nitrates, nitrites or MSG. Try all our flavors to find your favorite!

From Our Produce Department Pre-Cut Stew Veggie Mix

Walk into any Nugget Markets and you’ll see how much we love fresh fruits and vegetables! If you don’t have time to prep your soup starters, drop by our Produce Department for pre-cut carrots and celery sliced fresh in-house.

Green Giant Cauliflower Gnocchi

These tasty little dumplings are made in Italy with 40% cauliflower for an extra infusion of veggies. With no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, they’re a great base for all sorts of fast and delicious dishes.

Cauliflower Gnocchi with Roasted Butternut

Squash

Cauliflower gnocchi is a tasty alternative to the traditionally potato-based dumpling. Make this delicious dish even easier with pre-cut butternut squash from our Produce Department!

PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 20–25 MINUTES

YIELD: 2–3 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups butternut squash, ¾-inch diced

• 4 ounces olive oil, divided

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 package (10 ounces)

Green Giant Cauliflower Gnocchi

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 teaspoons Dorot Gardens

Crushed Garlic

• 2 teaspoons Dorot Gardens

Chopped Basil

Dorot Gardens

Frozen Garlic & Herbs

For extra flavor in no time flat, stock your freezer with these amazing little cubes of pre-minced herbs, garlic or ginger, processed and flash frozen within 2 hours of harvest! Find them in the Frozen Department with the frozen veggies.

From Our Produce Department

Pre-Cut Butternut Squash

Along with ready-to-cook veggie mixes, our Produce Department also offers individual produce items pre-cut for your convenience! Our pre-cut butternut squash is great for sautéing, roasting and so much more.

• 3–4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

PREPARATION

Heat oven to 400°F.

Toss butternut squash with 1 ounce olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in oven for 20–25 minutes, until just tender.

Bring a 4-quart pot of water to a boil. Add gnocchi and stir once gently. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove gnocchi with slotted spoon and place in a colander to drain.

Heat a nonstick pan on medium heat. Add remaining oil and butter, then gently add the cooked gnocchi and swirl the pan to spread them out. Let gnocchi brown on one side, then gently toss or turn over with a spoon to brown the other side.

Add the chopped garlic and basil and toss to coat. Add the roasted butternut squash and gently toss to combine.

Transfer to a serving dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Ancient Harvest Heat & Eat Polenta

Polenta can be a delicious addition to almost any meal, especially when it’s already cooked! Pick up a tube or two to slice into discs for this easy recipe, or try your hand at polenta fries, croutons or kebabs.

recipe

Seared Polenta Marinara with Spicy Italian Sausage & Rapini

Perfect for weeknights and date nights alike, this hearty, six-ingredient dish comes together in just half an hour!

PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 15 MINUTES

YIELD: 3–4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 roll (18 ounces) Ancient Harvest

Traditional Italian Polenta, cut into ½-inch discs

• ½ bunch rapini, cut into 2–3-inch pieces

• 3 Fresh to Market Hot Italian Sausages, cut into ¾-inch slices

• 1 jar (25 ounces) California Olive Ranch California Style Marinara Sauce

• 1 ball (8 ounces) burrata, cut into ½-inch slices

PREPARATION

Heat a cast iron or heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sear each polenta disc for 2 –3 minutes per side, or until well browned. Remove polenta and reserve. Place sausage pieces cut-side down in the pan and brown both sides for 1–2 minutes, until cooked through.

Bring a 4-quart stock pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch rapini for 1–2 minutes, until just tender, then drain.

Turn broiler to high. Add marinara to the pan and bring to a simmer. Arrange seared polenta in the sauce, then add the blanched rapini and top with sliced burrata. Place under broiler for 2 –3 minutes, until burrata melts and begins to brown.

California Olive Ranch Marinara Sauce

California Olive Ranch Extra Virgin Olive Oil is amazing (see p. 8), but have you tried their pasta sauces yet? Each fantastic flavor is made with their 100% California extra virgin olive oil, California-grown tomatoes and other simply delicious ingredients all slow-simmered to perfection.

Rosemary Garlic Chicken with Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash

Sheet pan meals are a wonderful way to feed the family without a lot of work. Start with pre-marinated chicken from our Meat Department for extra flavor without extra effort.

PREP TIME: 25 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 25 MINUTES

YIELD: 3–4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 2 Nugget Markets' Marinated Rosemary Garlic Chicken Breasts

• 4 ounces California Olive Ranch

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• 2 teaspoons Dorot Gardens Chopped Basil

• 1 quart butternut squash, medium diced

• 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

• Salt and pepper, to taste

PREPARATION

Heat oven to 400°F.

Heat a sauté pan on medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and sear chicken breasts until golden brown. Heat olive oil in microwave for 15–20 seconds until warm. Mix in chopped basil until thawed and evenly incorporated.

Place butternut squash and Brussels sprouts in a work bowl. Toss with basil oil and season with salt and pepper, then spread evenly on a lined baking sheet.

Roast in oven for 10 minutes and then place seared chicken breast on top and continue roasting until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.

California Olive Ranch

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Good quality extra virgin olive oil is a must for home cooks and chefs alike. Balanced and versatile with floral, herbal and fruity notes, this award-winning oil is a great go-to for everything from roasting and grilling to sautéing and baking. As an added bonus, this same extra virgin olive oil is also available as a spray for spritzing salads, waffle irons and more.

From Our Meat Department Fresh to Market Pre-Marinated Chicken

If you’re looking for premium poultry, this one’s a winner. Our Fresh to Market Chicken is cage free, vegetarian fed with no antibiotics ever, hand-trimmed and pure air-chilled to keep it fresh, tender and flavorful. It’s also available pre-marinated for extra flavor!

Pizza Romana

There’s no shame in frozen pizza, especially when you get a good one! Enjoy gourmet pizza from your own freezer with these authentic pies made in Italy with natural spring water, slow-fermented and hand-stretched dough, San Marzano tomatoes and other premium ingredients.

recipe

Frozen Pizza with Sausage & Arugula

For a fun and flavorful dinner in a flash, doctor up a frozen pizza with our Meat Department's handcrafted sausage plus fresh greens for the finishing touch.

PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 8–12 MINUTES

YIELD: 1–2 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 frozen Pizza Romana Pizza

• 3–4 ounces cooked Fresh to Market Hot Italian Sausage, bulk or link

• 2 ounces arugula

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• Salt, to taste

PREPARATION

Preheat oven according to pizza package instructions.

Distribute crumbled sausage over entire pizza, then bake pizza per package instructions.

Toss arugula with olive oil and salt, then use to top cooked pizza.

organicgirl good clean greens

Why have salad on the side when you can have it on top? Finish your pizza with fresh greens like organicgirl’s baby arugula, baby spinach or other fresh, organic greens grown just down the way in Salinas Valley and triple-washed for extra convenience.

how to

Roast Garlic

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Cut the top half off the whole head of garlic.

3. Place both halves in a pie plate or similar baking dish, then add ¼ inch of water.

4. Drizzle olive oil over cut ends of garlic.

5. Cover with foil and fold the edges over to seal.

6. Roast for about 30 minutes, until garlic is soft and golden brown.

7. Wait for garlic to cool, then squeeze each clove out individually.

Chicken & Roasted Garlic Lasagna

No-boil noodles make building this lovely lasagna a breeze. Use the extra time to make your own cream sauce for the ultimate comfort food decadence.

PREP TIME: 20 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 55–60 MINUTES YIELD: 4–6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• ½ pound ground chicken

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 2 teaspoons Dorot Gardens Crushed Garlic

• 1¼ cups milk

• 1¼ cups heavy cream

• ⅔ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 10 no-boil lasagna noodles

No-Boil Lasagna Noodles

Pasta is always a pantry staple, but no-boil lasagna noodles take it to another level. Just layer these oven-ready pasta sheets between copious amounts of cheese, sauce and other fillings before baking for a great, time-saving kitchen hack.

• 10 ounces frozen spinach, drained

• 10 ounces whole milk ricotta

• 1 pound whole milk mozzarella, shredded

• 2 ounces roasted garlic, chopped

• 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, shredded

PREPARATION

Heat a 2-quart sauce pot on medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and brown ground chicken, breaking it up into small pieces. Season with salt and pepper and remove from pan once cooked through.

Add the butter and garlic and sauté for 15–20 seconds, then add the milk and cream. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until evenly incorporated. Remove cream sauce from heat.

Heat oven to 325°F.

Build lasagna in a 9x9-inch (or comparable) baking dish by placing a thin layer of sauce on the bottom followed by 2 lasagna sheets. Coat each lasagna sheet with sauce, then with cooked chicken, spinach, ricotta, shredded mozzarella and roasted garlic, then 2 more lasagna sheets. Make 3 more layers, with the last 2 sheets only topped with shredded mozzarella and shredded Parmesan. Evenly distribute any remaining sauce over the top layer.

Cover dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove cover, turn oven to 375°F and bake 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is browned. Let rest 10 minutes before cutting.

recipe

Korean Beef

The secret to this sensational meal is a few time-saving tricks like pre-cooked rice, pre-cut veggies from our Produce Department and a superb sauce to tie it all together.

PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 10 MINUTES

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 package (7.4 ounces)

Minsley Organic Cooked White Rice

• 10–12 ounces flank steak, cut into ½-inch strips

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon Dorot Gardens

Crushed Ginger

• 1 teaspoon Dorot Gardens

Crushed Garlic

• ½ cup diced pepper mix

• ½ cup diced red onion

• 4 celery spears, bias cut

• 1 pouch (7 ounces) Kevin’s Natural Foods Korean BBQ Sauce

• 1 bunch scallions, bias cut, for garnish

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish

PREPARATION

Heat rice per package instructions and reserve.

Heat a large sauté pan on medium-high heat. Season steak strips with salt and pepper. Add oil to pan and sear steak on each side until browned. If needed, brown steak in batches to avoid crowding the pan.

Remove steak from pan and add the ginger, garlic, peppers, onions and celery. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, until just wilted. Add the seared steak back to the pan, add Korean BBQ sauce and bring to a boil.

Serve Korean beef over rice garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.

Kevin’s Natural Foods Korean BBQ Sauce

Eating clean without skimping on flavor has never been easier thanks to Kevin’s Natural Foods. This sweet and spicy sauce is paleo and keto-friendly, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy and dairy. For even more flavor, try their whole line of sensational sauces!

From Our Produce Department Pre-Cut Stir Fry Veggie Mix

The only downside to a veggie-centric stir fry is all the chopping! Luckily, our Produce Department offers a fantastic mix full of pre-diced bell peppers, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, lemongrass, snow peas, bean sprouts, celery, carrots and mushrooms so you can get straight to cooking.

Minsley Organic Cooked White Rice Bowls

The magic of rice is that it goes with pretty much anything. The cook time? Not so much. That's where pre-cooked rice comes in. Along with buying microwaveable bowls and pouches, you can also batch prep and freeze your own—see p. 14 to learn how!

Bowl Life

Want good food fast? Build your own bowl with this easy guide! A balanced bowl includes a few common elements: protein, vegetables, grains and toppings. Make things even easier by using chef-prepared sauces from our Kitchen, pre-marinated meats from our Meat Department and pre-cut veggies from our Produce Department. With so many amazing ingredients to choose from, the flavor combinations are endless!

Planet Rice

The right rice can make all the difference in any meal. That’s why we love these great grains grown, milled and packed by the LaGrande family right here in the Sacramento Valley! For more than five generations they’ve focused on growing premium, wholesome rice that’s both good for you and the planet thanks to regenerative agriculture and sustainability. Enjoy varieties like their Organic Sprouted Brown Rice, California Blonde Rice or California Calrose for delicious nutrition in every bite.

Chef-Prepared Toppings

From fresh guacamole and spicy salsas to vinaigrettes and more, our talented Kitchen team makes our own dips and dressings here in-house! Along with sprucing up salads, these cool condiments also make marvelous marinades and superb sauces to top off your bowl.

Fresh to Market Marinated Meats

You may already know our Fresh to Market Meats are a cut above, but did you know you can get them pre-marinated? Our butchers seal individual cuts of chicken, beef and pork in airtight Cryovac packaging right here in-house with a variety of signature seasonings, so you can enjoy fresh, flavorful meat whenever you’re ready to cook.

Taylor Farms Salad Kits

Add some greens to your bowl or toss a salad on the side with these pre-washed, ready-to-mix kits complete with everything you need for a standout salad, including tasty toppings and delicious dressings.

Freezer Hacks

Your freezer is your friend when it comes to effective food prep. From putting leftovers on ice to batch prepping and freezing individual meal components ahead of time, with these pro tips and freezer-friendly recipes, you’ll be wasting less and working less in no time.

Freezer Pantry

favorites

Beans, rice and marinated meats are all great ingredients to have on hand and ready to go for a multitude of meals. Not only does building a freezer stash of staples like these maximize efficiency by making larger batches, it also helps limit flavor fatigue from eating something too often.

recipe

Freezer Marinated Chicken

Even a simple marinade can add layers of fantastic flavor to proteins like chicken. This one is made for meal planning with freezer-friendly steps and ingredients!

PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 lemon

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 3 cloves garlic, sliced thin

• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, crushed

• 1 bay leaf, crushed

PREPARATION

Place chicken in a shallow dish. Season both sides with salt.

Use a vegetable peeler to remove lemon zest in strips (just the yellow rind, no white pith), then slice into strings.

Drizzle olive oil and honey over chicken breast, then coat both sides evenly with remaining ingredients.

Transfer chicken and marinade to a zip-top bag and freeze for later use.

Cuban Black Beans

These flavorful beans are great to have on hand for any

recipe recipe

Stasher Bags

Made with platinum food-grade silicone, these endlessly reusable bags are functional, durable and sustainable in and out of the kitchen! Not only are they freezer-safe and leak-free, they’re also good to go in the dishwasher, microwave and oven up to 425°F. Their flat bags are ideal for easy freezing and defrosting, while their stand-up bags are fantastic for fridge storage and more. Even better, Stasher gives 1% of sales back to nonprofits to help protect the planet!

Seasoned Brown Rice

Bring brown rice to the next level with a hint of spice and

occasion. If making ahead for meal planning, portion cooked and cooled beans into 16-ounce bags that lay flat and freeze until you're ready to enjoy. citrus. Pro Tip: This recipe is ideal for meal planning—simply cool your rice after cooking, portion it into individual or family-size servings and freeze for later!

Freezer-Friendly

Stock your freezer with homemade meals that taste just as good after two months on ice as they did on day one! Saucy dishes like Bolognese, chili and soups galore are all prime candidates and great ways to make sure veggies don’t go to waste. For morning meals, pancakes (peanut butter pecan for extra protein or blueberry for a sweet snack) are also great to pop in the toaster at a moment’s notice!

For Flawless Freezing

• To start your freezer stash, try to make 6–8 complete meals and/or meal components using freezer-friendly recipes.

• Freeze in portions of 2, 4 or more depending on your family size.

• Freeze anything you won’t be eating that same night because life is unpredictable and it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to wasting food and work.

• Rotate your freezer meals and recipe components to safeguard quality and limit waste. Try to limit freezer time to less than 4 months to keep your food (and menu!) fresh.

• Once you get started, if you make 4 recipes on any given weekend, you’ll only need to batch cook every other weekend or less!

recipe

Sloppy Joes

It's hard to beat this classic comfort food! If cooking for just a few people or your weekly meal planning, you can easily freeze both the mixture and the buns for another time.

PREP TIME: 10–15 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 35–45 MINUTES

YIELD: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups ketchup

• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo

• ⅛ cup yellow mustard

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup chicken stock

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 2 pounds ground turkey

• 3 tablespoons minced garlic

• 1 cup green peppers, small diced

• 1 cup yellow onion, small diced

• 8 brioche buns

PREPARATION

Combine ketchup, chipotle peppers to taste, yellow mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce and chicken stock in a blender. Puree on high for 10–15 seconds.

Heat a 4-quart sauce pot on medium-high heat. Add the oil and cook ground turkey, breaking it up into small pieces, until browned.

Remove turkey from pan and add the garlic, green peppers and onions. Sauté until just beginning to brown, then add the turkey and ketchup puree.

Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 30–40 minutes partially covered and stirring regularly until sauce is thickened.

Serve between brioche buns.

Waste Saving

tricks

Fruit on the turn? Don’t care for bread crusts? Too many burger buns? So many stems? Use these pro tips to reduce food waste and make the most out of every ingredient!

BANANAS

Freeze ripe bananas for smoothies, banana bread and pancakes.

BERRIES

Spread berries out on a sheet pan and freeze, then bag frozen berries for future use in smoothies, desserts or recipes.

BROCCOLI & MUSHROOM STEMS

Freeze stems in a bag to save until you have enough to make a batch of broccoli or mushroom soup.

BURGER BUNS

When buying a pack of eight buns, freeze any extras in portion sizes appropriate to your family size on the first day so they stay fresh for when you need the rest.

BREAD CRUSTS & HEELS

Use a food processor to grind bread crusts and heels into fine crumbs, then freeze. Use to make seasoned breadcrumbs for garnishing soups, pasta and more!

how to

Make Breadcrumbs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Spread raw breadcrumbs out on a sheet pan.

3. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, add a sprinkle of ground Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then mix by hand.

4. Toast in oven, stirring every 5 minutes until toasty brown.

Wean Green

Wean off single-use plastics with recyclable, sustainable and ultra-durable glass instead! Available in multiple shapes, sizes and colors, these convenient containers from a womenowned company are ideal for eco-friendly food storage, meal prep and snacks on the go. With easy-open lids and airtight, silicone seals, each tempered glass container is freezer, microwave and dishwasher-safe for easy storing, reheating and cleaning when you’re done.

Functional FOODS

For many, making new lifestyle choices includes being more selective about which foods to eat. With functional foods (or nutraceuticals), you not only get the nutrition to fuel your everyday activities, but also additional health benefits

such as support in boosting your immunity or helping to ease inflammation. Many of these power-packed foods can be found in the Produce Department (see below), while others are foods fortified, enriched or enhanced, such as supplements or powders you can add to recipes you’re already making (see p. 20).

Citrus

Like sunshine in winter, citrus including oranges, tangerines, pomelos, grapefruits, kumquats and other flavorful fruits have a wealth of health-boosting nutrients such as vitamin C (50 to more than 100% Daily Value per fruit), fiber and potent cancer-fighting compounds, such as limonene. Check out some other interesting nutritional properties of common citrus fruits!

Mushrooms

There are many types of this good fungus, some of which have been shown to have various health benefits. For example, the mushrooms in our Produce Department that have been irradiated with UV light (check the label) are a good source of Vitamin D, which plays a major role in bone building and immune system health. Morel mushrooms have glucans, a group of compounds found in many mushrooms that have been shown to stimulate the immune system. Morels also supply a good amount of B vitamins and potassium. Other examples of functional mushrooms that can be found in products throughout the store are Lion’s Mane or Reishi mushrooms.

LEARN MORE

GingerAnother popular item in our Produce Department, ginger has been widely used throughout the world for centuries for various remedies as well as delicious recipes. Fresh ginger supplies gingerol which has been shown to ease stomach upset. Fun fact: you can use ginger and turmeric to create a delicious tea to enjoy as a warming drink after an evening meal or with breakfast for a soothing boost.

Turmeric

The golden goodness of turmeric boasts naturally occurring curcumin. Research studies show curcumin has very strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which means turmeric may “calm” irritated situations inside cells on a microscopic level such as in the heart and brain. As an anti-inflammatory agent, curcumin shows promising potential with health benefits like curbing a host of ailments that have their roots in inflammation such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

PREPARATION

Fill a tea steeper ball with grated ginger and turmeric, then place in a large teacup and cover with very hot water. Let steep for 5 minutes, swirling the ball on occasion. Add a drizzle of honey and squeeze of lemon juice, stir and enjoy.

Give Yourself a BOOST

Give your healthy lifestyle a boost of extra nutrients and health benefits by incorporating fortified, functional foods like these! Here are a few great products you can find in our Healthy Living and Specialty Grocery Departments that are easy to add to your daily routine.

Want your bowl to go? Drop by our Coffee & Juice Bar for a variety of delicious Açai and Pitaya Bowls made fresh to order!

MRM Superfoods

Live life in balance with MRM (Metabolic Response Modifiers) Superfoods. With the belief that food is medicine, they have traveled the world over to find high-quality nutraceuticals for everyone. Add these nutrient-dense, superfood powders to smoothies, oatmeal, baked goods or other healthy recipes!

• Ashwagandha is a known adaptogen that may help with stress and mental well-being.

• Moringa, known as “India’s miracle tree,” has been used in traditional Indian ayurvedic medicine for centuries and is packed with macro nutrients and antioxidants.

• Elderberry fruit is also packed with antioxidants and is known to support a healthy immune system.

Elderberry Açai Bowl

Start your day with this recipe from MRM Superfoods!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 frozen banana

• ½ cup frozen blueberries

• ½ cup frozen strawberries

• ¾ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon MRM Superfoods Elderberry Fruit Powder

• 1 packet frozen aÇai puree

• Toppings: Granola, fruit, honey

PREPARATION

Combine all base ingredients in a blender and mix until creamy. Add more liquid if necessary. Pour into a bowl and top with your favorite fruit, granola and honey.

Olipop Soda

Like soda with a spin, these effervescent tonics are designed to support digestive health with wholesome ingredients like prebiotics, plant fiber, botanicals and only 2–5 grams of sugar per can. Pack it in with your meal for lunchtime refreshment or enjoy one in the afternoon when you’re just looking for something refreshing to sip.

MIGHTY Mushrooms

A variety of these fantastic fungi are used to help boost moods, enhance energy levels, support mental clarity and bolster immunity. Functional mushrooms are magical indeed!

Host Defense Mushrooms

On a mission to build a healthier world by harnessing the natural power of mushrooms, Host Defense combines centuries of wisdom with modern research and innovation to get the most out of these functional mushrooms, all while also supporting environmental health with their Climate Positive program. Try their drink mixes, liquid capsules and powder supplements!

Laird Superfood Performance Mushrooms

For an extra boost of flavor and energy, add this beverage booster to your morning coffee or smoothie, or mix it up with a mushroom-infused hot chocolate blend! As an added bonus, they're organic, gluten-free and paleo-friendly!

Tēo Nan Wellness Beverages

Get your daily dose of wellness with a Tēo Nan Hot Chocolate or Americano made with a mix of six carefully selected organic, GMO-free functional mushrooms, Peruvian criolla cacao and probiotics. These beverages are made with the essence of functional mushrooms for no mushroom taste and have no added sugar.

Yummy GUMMIES

While a healthful, balanced diet is key to promoting optimal health for you and your family, taking vitamin and mineral supplements can help give your body an extra boost. For those looking for easier (or tastier) ways to take their supplements, gummies could be the way to go! Since they’re enjoyable to take, they can also make it easier for a new habit to stick. As with any supplement, make sure to consult your doctor before starting a regular regimen!

IMMUNITY Support

Nordic Naturals is known for their omega supplements to support optimal brain function, wellness and heart health, but they also produce vitamins and supplements for the whole family, such as Vitamin C and Vitamin D supplements for adults and kids ages 4+.

General HEALTH

Made with nine organic whole fruits with no sugars or syrups, Garden of Life mykind Organics Whole Food Gummies are a clean, tasty gummy great for a daily multivitamin. They are Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan, Certified Gluten Free and Kosher.

R&R

Full of antioxidant support with zero sugar, artificial coloring, flavoring or preservatives, Nordic Naturals Zero Sugar Melatonin Gummies promote healthy sleep patterns for more restful sleep.

If you want to try CBD (cannabidiol), the non-psychoactive compounds in CBD extract have been used to manage stress, help with pain relief and support a good night’s rest. Check out these THC-free gummies in our Healthy Living Department:

• Wyld CBD Gummies: Committed to preserving the land they grow on and raising awareness of the benefits of CBD, Wyld CBD makes their vegan-friendly, gluten-free, real fruit gummies with broad-spectrum hemp extract. Through their commitment to integrity and quality, they’ve become one of the most popular brands in the country!

• Charlotte’s Web Stanley Brothers CBD Gummies: In the name of alternative and holistic health, these gummies are made with renowned proprietary blends of full-spectrum hemp extract and botanicals to support calm, sleep and recovery.

ACTIVE Lifestyle

For competitive athletes and casual fitness fans alike, we have the gummies you need to keep going strong. Enjoy a bite-sized wellness boost with grass-fed and pasture-raised Vital Proteins Collagen Gummies, or reap the benefits of fish oil without the aftertaste with Nordic Naturals Zero Sugar Ultimate Omega Gummy Chews to help support heart, brain and immune health.

• Garden of Life Dr. Formulated CBD+ Sleep Gummies: Formulated by David Perlmutter, M.D. Board Certified Neurologist and Fellow of the American College of Nutrition, these vegan-friendly gummies are easy to chew and delicious to taste. They’re made with organic fruit, organic USA-grown hemp and powerful herbs to promote relaxation and sleep.

You Call the SHOTS

Raise a glass to delicious nutrition with our Coffee & Juice Bar’s wellness shots! On their own or added to your favorite juice or smoothie, these power shots offer an array of health-boosting vitamins and minerals along with an abundance of phytonutrients. Learn more with these Health Notes by Dr. Liz!

C's the Day 2 FLUID OUNCES

ginger, turmeric, lemon, orange, vitamin C and dash of cayenne

This power-packed shot is made with fresh-pressed ginger that contains gingerol, known to ease stomach upset, and fresh turmeric which supplies curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound that protects against age-related conditions such as arthritis. Fresh lemon and orange juice pack phytonutrients called flavonoids along with vitamin C which studies show may help improve circulating levels of cholesterol for better heart health. Added liquid vitamin C and rose hips pumps an additional 500+% of vitamin C into this shot, great for skin and immune system health. And finally, a dash of cayenne pepper may rev up your metabolism according to research.

Basil Blue Smoothie

blueberries, basil, banana, chia seeds, pineapple juice and honey

This winter-time smoothie gives your body what it needs to stay healthy in just 300 calories for a medium drink:

• 40% of the Daily Value for fiber, much from prebiotic soluble fibers that help boost GI health by providing fuel for your gut bacteria that in turn support your immune system. Soluble fiber also keeps you feeling full.

• A wealth of antioxidants from blueberries that bolster your defenses against everyday oxidative damage (over 150% of vitamin A needs and 70% of vitamin C).

• A dose of minerals such as copper and manganese (thanks to chia seeds) that support muscle function and energy metabolism.

Bounce Back 2 FLUID OUNCES

tart cherry and carrot

Tart cherries contain powerful antioxidants that scientific studies have shown to lessen inflammation and help speed recovery from exhaustive exercise. And pressed juice from whole carrots supplies an array of carotenoids, specifically lutein that supports eye health and protects your body’s muscles and other tissues from day-to-day wear and tear.

Wheatgrass 1 FLUID OUNCE wheatgrass

Loaded with the green plant-pigment chlorophyll, wheatgrass juice is rich in magnesium, a crucial mineral for energy metabolism (especially during a workout). This juice also supplies an array of other nutrients like B vitamins, potassium, vitamin C and carotenes all of which help support your health, all in fewer than 25 calories per ounce.

Tummy Tonic 2 FLUID OUNCES

beet, lemon and mushroom

blend powder

This ruby-colored shot supplies betalain from beets that science shows helps relax blood vessels which may improve exercise performance. This same compound may be beneficial in lowering blood pressure. Lemon juice contains limonene, a type of flavonoid that has antioxidant properties, which protects the immune system. Mushrooms are a type of fungi (same grouping as yeast) that researchers now know pack a host of potential health benefits centered around our immune system strength.

Golden State Smoothie

Make

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup Real California Milk

(like our Fresh to Market Organic Milk !)

• 1 cup frozen mango chunks

• ¾ cup sliced frozen banana

• ¼ cup oats

• 2–3 pitted dates, chopped

• 1 tablespoon peeled, grated fresh ginger root, or 1 teaspoon ground

• 2 teaspoons peeled, grated fresh turmeric root, or 1 teaspoon ground

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom

• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

PREPARATION

Soak the dates in hot water for approximately 5 minutes, or until softened.

Add milk, mango, banana, oats, soaked dates, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom and ground pepper to the jar of a blender. Pulse on low until everything begins to come together.

Uncle Matt's Organic Juice

Starring 100% organic citrus, every flavor of this premium juice is packed with pure goodness! Enjoy a variety of flavors including No Sugar Added Lemonade (sweetened with organic stevia), Ultimate Immune (with black elderberry) and Ultimate Defense (with turmeric, vitamin C and probiotics). This Certified B Corporation also gives back to the community—look at their label to see which nonprofit they’re supporting each season!

Fresh to Market Milk

Looking for some extraordinary dairy? Our Fresh to Market Milk comes from California cows freely roaming the pastures of small family farms in Marin and Sonoma counties. This milk is certified humane and not ultra-pasteurized, so it retains a fresher taste. Rich in protein, calcium and vitamins A and D, our milk is good for you and good for our communities!

Remove the lid and scrape down the sides of the jar with a silicone spatula. Return the lid to the blender jar and blend on high speed for about 30 seconds until a smooth, creamy texture is achieved. If necessary, scrape down the sides of the jar again, and pulse until smooth.

Top with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and cardamom, and a cinnamon stick, if desired.

RECIPE BY ALISON NEEDHAM/CA GROWN

Create your own personal sanctuary by bringing a little nature indoors. As well as being a beautiful addition to any style of décor, houseplants bring a variety of other benefits, too! From purifying the air to enhancing your mood, houseplants are grounding and inspirational while adding natural beauty to your space.

A Balance of Love, Light & Water

Just like humans, houseplants need balance. The right ratio of love, light, water and healthy soil for their roots is key. Here are some tips on basic variables to help your houseplants thrive.

LIGHT

Most houseplants do well with bright, indirect light. Succulents enjoy full, direct sun. Plants exposed to more sunlight, under heating vents or in a drafty spot will need to balance that out with more water.

WATER

Type of plant, location and how much sun it gets throughout the day all play a part in how much water your plant needs. Always water

your plants thoroughly and let the water drain. Those with more delicate leaves tend to be more sensitive to water balance. For plants that need a bit of humidity, mist with a spray bottle or set a tray of water under your plants so the evaporation can be absorbed.

SOIL

Most houseplants grow in dirt or soil to take root and gather their nutrients. Succulents thrive in porous, well-draining soil, while others do better in evenly moist soil made of rich, peaty, absorbent material. For extra nutrients, apply a basic fertilizer made for indoor houseplants about once a month.

Crystals & Jewelry from Shoppe Geocentral

Hand-chosen stones and crystals from the earth can bring a little magic to your everyday journey. Each Mini Stone Pack comes with an explanation of the energy of that crystal combination. They’re perfect for setting the tone in a relaxing space for meditation and reflection. Look for Zodiac Crystal Collections and Bracelets too!

Notebooks & Journals from Studio Oh!

Keeping a journal to reflect on thoughts and experiences can be a beneficial self-care practice. These uniquely designed notebooks and journals are made from recycled materials and printed with soy-based inks. They’re great for tracking wellness, practicing mindfulness or just jotting down random thoughts.

Houseplants aren’t the only way to bring balance to your zen den. From natural crystals to aromatherapy, here are some ideas to engage all the senses in your self-care routine.

Frank Lloyd Wright Paint by Numbers Kit

from Galison

Art can also be a powerful tool to quiet the mind. Recreate an iconic mid-century masterpiece, “March Balloons” by Frank Lloyd Wright, with this paint by numbers kit complete with the outline on canvas, paints, brushes and a tabletop easel that can also be used to display your finished work.

Peppermint Workout Mist

This motivating mist recipe from Aura Cacia is perfect for spritzing in the air before your next yoga session.

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Essential Oils from Aura Cacia

Breathe in, breathe out and chill out with a little aromatherapy. Along with offering pure, responsibly sourced essential oils since 1982, Aura Cacia also helps women around the world transform their lives for the better. Our Healthy Living Department also offers their line of skin and body care.

DIRECTIONS

Combine water and oils in a 2-ounce spray bottle. Replace cap and shake vigorously until well blended.

To use, dispense 1–2 sprays to freshen the air, or apply to your workout towel.

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PREPARATION

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, even you.”

– Anne Lamott, Almost Everything

Treat Yourself...

Lemon Bar

For a citrusy sweet, pick up one of our luscious Lemon Bars featuring an all-butter shortbread crust topped with baked lemon curd and dusted with icing sugar.

Cookies & Cream Cheesecake Bar

Enjoy two desserts in one with our rich and tangy cheesecake filled with Oreo cookie pieces on a chocolate cookie crust, all topped with a dollop of whipped cream.

You can’t be perfect all the time—that’s why it’s called balance! When you’re in the mood for something sweet but still want to keep an eye on portion control, drop by our Bakery for a decadent dessert that’s just the right size. Ideal for individual indulgence, these sweet slices, bars and cupcakes come in a variety of fantastic flavors, including our featured filled Cupcake of the Month— each available for a limited time only!

Raspberry Cheesecake Bar

This fruity favorite starts with a chocolate cookie crust topped with our decadent, sweet cheesecake and swirled with tart raspberry preserves for the perfect finish.

Tres Leches Cake

This just in! Our Bakery’s new Tres Leches Cake is a triple threat of tastiness. Our bakers soak sponge cake with a traditional mixture of condensed milk, evaporated milk and heavy cream, then top it all off with non-dairy whipped icing and cinnamon or fresh fruit. A whole cake serves 5–6, or you can get it by the slice if you don’t want to share.

January Cupcake of the Month: Boston Cream

This pie-inspired cupcake stars fluffy white sponge cake filled with sweet vanilla custard, topped with chocolate buttercream, dipped in rich chocolate ganache and finished with the classic marble design.

February Cupcake of the Month: Strawberry Cheesecake

You’re sure to love this sweet white cupcake soaked with vanilla syrup, filled with diced strawberries and topped with strawberry cream cheese icing, graham cracker crumbs and a fresh strawberry.

Tiramisu Cake Slice

Enjoy this classic Italian dessert in cake form with our lady finger and vanilla sponge slice soaked with a blend of coffee and marsala, filled and iced with a sweet mascarpone crème then dusted with cocoa.

Chocolate Mousse Cake Slice

Chocolate lovers will adore our rich, homemade chocolate cake soaked with rum simple syrup, iced with rich chocolate mousse and decorated with a chocolate baton.

March Cupcake of the Month: Mint Chocolate

Go green with this chocolate cupcake filled with crème de menthe-infused white chocolate mousse, topped with chocolate cookie crumbs and mint whipped icing, and finished with a chocolate mint candy.

Toasted Almond Crunch Cake Slice

Made without gluten, this nutty cake slice features layers of our flourless almond torte with almond custard, homemade buttercream and candied, roasted almonds.

Baker Bio: Vanessa V.

At Nugget Markets, we’re proud of all the delicious, homemade desserts we offer, but we’re even prouder of all the amazing bakers behind them! Vanessa V. has been part of the Nugget Markets family for 22 years and is now our lead researcher and developer for all things dessert. All the fun, new treats you see in our Bakery (like our Tres Leches Cake!) are the fruit of lots of research, thorough recipe creation and testing, and thoughtful design to make sure the goodies shine. Let’s hear it for Vanessa and the rest of our talented Bakery team!

This or That...

Life is all about choices, and sometimes there’s no wrong answer! From your morning meal to drinks and dessert, you get to choose what’s right for your individual taste, diet, mood and goals every single day. Whichever you pick, we won’t judge—we love them all!

Breakfast Delight Berry Good

Get your day started by popping a protein-packed Kodiak Power Waffle or two in the toaster or a frozen, authentic, French-style Boulangerie Solignac Pastry in the oven to make any morning extra special.

Frosty Dessert

Chill out with a creamy or dreamy dessert like the original Cream’wich starring handcrafted ice cream and fresh-baked cookies from Southern California or 100% plant-based Dream Pops made with simple ingredients like coconut milk.

Chocolate Lover

Bring on the berries with a Fresh Fruit Danish homemade by our bakers with a luscious cream cheese filling or enjoy Pre-Cut Berries from our Produce Department with whipped Cocoade Coconut Whipping Cream for a little lighter luxury.

Sweet Tooth

When the chocolate craving hits, you can’t go wrong with the award-winning, Fair Trade and fully traceable TCHO chocolates made locally in Berkeley or Lily’s Fair Trade chocolate bars sweetened with stevia with no added sugar!

Sugary or sugar-free, we’ve got the goods! Pick up the classic Haribo Goldbears for a taste of sweet nostalgia, or grab a pack of Smart Sweets made with plant-based fiber and naturally sweetened without added sugar or sugar alcohols.

Happy Hour

Raise a glass with a convenient, ready-to-drink cocktail or mocktail of your choice like Salt Point Canned Cocktails made locally in Northern California or Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Premix Drinks crafted with all the flavor but none of the booze.

snack attack

For a gourmet take on cheese and crackers, grab a jar of flavorful and creamy Meredith Dairy Marinated Sheep & Goat Cheese and spread it on thick with a scratch-made, fresh-baked Baguette from our Bakery or our Fresh to Market Organic Sourdough Flatbread Bites made locally in Marin County!

Chips and dip get a healthy makeover with this delicious combo! Start with 12 Tides Organic Puffed Kelp Chips for the perfect umami crunch. Each bag features nutrientdense kelp sustainably grown and harvested by regenerative ocean farmers off the coast of Maine, then baked into tasty, organic snacks with flavors like Sea Salt, Everything and Chili Pepper. As an added bonus, not only are these savory snacks good for you, they’re also good for the planet! 12 Tides is a Certified B Corporation that gives 1% back to the planet, packs all their chips in compostable packaging and is dedicated to restoring our oceans.

Pair with Maza Hummus, a local favorite from Sacramento crafted in small batches for the ultimate freshness and flavor!

1414 E. Covell Blvd., Davis (530) 750–3800

Open 6am to 11pm

409 Mace Blvd., Davis (530) 753–6690

Open 6am to 10pm

4500 Post Street, El Dorado Hills (916) 933–1433

Open 6am to 10pm

7101 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove (916) 226–2626

Open 6am to 10pm

771 Pleasant Grove Blvd., Roseville (916) 746–7799

Open 6am to 10pm

1509 Blue Oaks Blvd., Roseville (916) 918–1900

Open 6am to 10pm

1040 Florin Road, Sacramento (916) 395–2875

Open 6am to 9pm

130 Browns Valley Parkway, Vacaville ( 707 ) 469–6900

Open 6am to 10pm

ISSUE NO. 41 • WINTER 2023

2000 Town Center Plaza, West Sacramento (916) 375–8700

Open 6am to 11pm

157 Main Street, Woodland (530) 662–5479

Open 6am to 10pm

5627 Paradise Drive, Corte Madera (415) 945–8855

Open 7am to 9pm

470 Ignacio Blvd., Novato (415) 883–4600

Open 7am to 9pm

1 Blackfield Drive, Tiburon (415) 388–2770

Open 7am to 9pm

Sonoma Market

500 West Napa Street, Suite 550, Sonoma (707) 996–3411

Open 6am to 9pm

Fork Lift by Nugget Markets

3333 Coach Lane, Cameron Park (530) 672–9090

Open 6am to 10am