Tag #InstaFood

NATIONAL CUBAN SANDWICH DAY

Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments
Cuban Sandwich

On August 23rd, celebrate a sandwich that originated in Cuba, but grew up in Florida. National Cuban Sandwich Day is a tribute to flavor found in a toasted pressed sandwich.

While the Cubano traditionally consists of ham, roast pork, swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on Cuban bread, restaurants and home cooks serve up different versions. While the sandwich alone may serve as a satisfying meal, some very flavorful sides complement this globe-trotting sandwich. Like any grilled sandwich, a creamy, dunkable soup makes the perfect complement. Consider making this delicious Smoky Roasted Corn Soup. Another favorite side dish is seasoned sweet potato fries.

The sandwich brings together flavor and history, too. By combining traditions from Cuban, German, and Italian immigrants, the sandwich offers a world tour of simple ingredients. If you’ve never had one, this is the day to try it.

NATIONAL CUBAN SANDWICH DAY HISTORY

Journalist Christopher Spata of the Tampa Bay Times set out to test the National Day food celebration waters in 2016. In his mission to make up a new food holiday, he managed to create a celebration that has gone around the world. According to his article, he chose August 23rd because the only other food holiday was National Sponge Cake Day, “and who cares about that?” (He’s obviously never had sponge cake or tried making one.” And while some articles call it a hoax, those who celebrate food days take them seriously.

Sandwich FAQ

Q. When is National Sandwich Day?
A. National Sandwich Day is November 3.

Q. How many sandwich holidays are on the calendar?
A. The short answer is there are 13 sandwich-specific days on the calendar. But, define sandwich. Most people (and dictionaries) define “sandwich” as a food comprised of two pieces of bread with a filling of meat, cheese, or other food items in between the bread. Hoagie, hamburger, and sloppy Joe easily fit that description. Grilled cheese sandwich has the word “sandwich” in its name. Those are no-brainers. But, what is a hot dog? Chili dog? What about the Oreo? Is it a sandwich or can you count desserts? Speaking of desserts, how about a s’more? Are graham crackers bread? That brings us to quesadillas. Tortillas are bread and some quesadillas use two tortillas. Is a quesadilla a sandwich? And then there are the open-face sandwiches. Is an egg benedict considered an open-face sandwich?

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCubanSandwichDay

Many restaurants offer specials on their Cuban Sandwich to celebrate the day. You’ll want to give the place that makes your favorite Cubano a shout-out, too! You can also make your own. Try a traditional recipe or change it up with your own distinctive style. You can also share the day with others while exploring new side dishes and recipes. Be sure to use #NationalCubanSandwichDay to share your celebrations on social media.

National Ice Cream Sandwhich Day

Jensperspectiveblog 6 Comments

On August 2nd, National Ice Cream Sandwich Day encourages us to cool off with one of our favorite frozen treats. Whether it’s vanilla, strawberry or Neopolitan between two chocolate wafers, the dessert sure will hit the spot on a hot summer day.  

The original ice cream sandwich sold for a penny in 1900 from a pushcart in the Bowery neighborhood of New York. Newspapers never identified the name of the vendor in articles that appeared across the country. However, the ice cream sandwiched between milk biscuits became a hit. Soon, pushcarts popped up around the city and country during the summer months selling the portable treats. Early pictures show beachgoers at Atlantic City getting their ice cream sandwichs for 1¢ each. 

Once ice cream sandwiches became popular, recipes for home cooks filled the papers. The sandwich layers included everything from angel food and sponge cake to shortbread cookies. Restaurants offered the ice cream sandwich as a decadent dessert for travelers. By 1940, grocers sold sandwiches made with crispy wafers.

One account claims the modern ice cream sandwich with the chocolate wafer was invented in 1945 by Jerry Newberg. The ice cream maker sold his creation at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh, PA. At the time, the storied location was home to the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers.

If the chocolate brownie wafer doesn’t appeal to you, don’t hesitate to mix it up. All variety of cookies make excellent sandwich parts. Change up the ice cream, too. Around the world, ice cream sandwiches go by a variety of names including the Monaco Bar, Giant Sandwich, Maxibon, Cream Between, Vanilla Slice, and many more.

Explore More….

HOW TO OBSERVE #IceCreamSandwichDay

Enjoy an ice cream sandwich today! Make your own, or listen for your local ice cream truck. Post on social media using #IceCreamSandwichDay.

Chef'n Sweet Spot Ice Cream Sandwich Maker, Large, Black
Chef’n Sweet Spot Ice Cream Sandwich Maker, Large, Black
Ice Cream Sandwich Wafers & Cookies (Chocolate Wafer, 1 Lb)
Ice Cream Sandwich Wafers & Cookies (Chocolate Wafer, 1 Lb)

Little Pepi's Pizzelles, Vanilla, 7 Ounce
Little Pepi’s Pizzelles, Vanilla, 7 Ounce
Chef'n SweetSpot Mini Ice Cream Sandwich Maker (Fudge/Coconut), Standard, Small
Chef’n SweetSpot Mini Ice Cream Sandwich Maker (Fudge/Coconut), Standard, Small

NATIONAL SANDWICH MONTH

Jensperspectiveblog 7 Comments

August is National Sandwich Month. The basic concept of the sandwich long predates the Earl of Sandwich, the real-life 18th-century aristocrat who reportedly loved them, and gave them their modern name. The ancient Jewish sage Hillel the Elder is said to have wrapped lamb-meat and bitter herbs between two pieces of matzoh (unleavened bread) during Passover. Early versions of the “wrap” have also been found in Asia and Africa. The sandwich grew in popularity among aristocrats in the 18th and 19th centuries. Legend has it they were popularly shared, held with one hand, during late-night gaming and drinking.

The Encyclopedia of Sandwiches: Recipes, History, and Trivia for Everything Between Sliced Bread Paperback – April 5, 2011 by Susan Russo  (Author), Matt Armendariz  (Photographer)
The Encyclopedia of Sandwiches: Recipes, History, and Trivia for Everything Between Sliced Bread Paperback – April 5, 2011

by Susan Russo  (Author), Matt Armendariz  (Photographer)

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a sandwich must have at least 35% cooked meat and be no more than 50% bread. The average American child eats about 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before finishing high school. Astronaut John Young once smuggled a corned beef sandwich on board a Gemini flight. Submarine sandwiches are called “hoagies” in Philadelphia and “heroes” in New York. The Dagwood sandwich was first introduced by Chic Young, creator of the Blondie strip, who described the sandwich as a “mountainous pile of dissimilar leftovers.”

Stasher 100% Silicone Reusable Food Bag (Bundle, Aqua) by Stasher
Stasher 100% Silicone Reusable Food Bag (Bundle, Aqua)

by Stasher


SANDWICH HACKS: HOW TO ENJOY NATIONAL SANDWICH MONTH

  • When making a BLT, weave the bacon together to avoid the bacon from falling out when you bite into it.
  • Worried about “fridge thieves” sealing your sandwich at the office? Get a Moldy Sandwich Bag. The bag isn’t really moldy; it only gives the appearance your lunch looks moldy and spoiled.
  • Instead of bread or toast, make your breakfast sandwiches with waffles.
  • Turn your freshly-baked bread over and slice it on the soft side. That helps prevent squishing the bread.

HISTORY

In 1952, the Wheat Flour Institute established August as National Sandwich Month. Newspapers across the country filled their pages with recipes fit for the Earl of Sandwich and picnics alike. The annual observance continues today.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Try a new sandwich recipe every week and share them on social media! Get some of our family favorites from our recipes page. Wraps, Panninis, and family dinners can be found here. Use #NationalSandwichMonth to post your creations.

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Greek Chicken Pasta

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This easy Greek Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious, fuss-free dinner that combines tender chicken, hearty pasta, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in one comforting dish. Tossed with fresh Asparagus, fresh mushrooms Alfredo sauce, lemon juice, and topped with plenty of cheese, this baked pasta comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping, it’s a flavorful twist on classic pasta bake that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

  • 2 LG canned chicken 12.5oz
  • 16 oz Fresh mushrooms chopped
  • 1 bundle Fresh asparagus cut length in thirds
  • 1/2 cup onion diced
  • 1 8oz block cream cheese
  • 1 12 oz  jar Alfredo pasta sauce
  • 8 oz penne pasta cooked alde te
  • 3 tbsp greek seasoning
  • 3 tbsp Lemon juice divided
  • 1 tsp blakened seasoning
  • 1 10oz grape tomatoes sliced in half

Directions

  • Cook pasta to aldente’
  • Mix Alfredo, onions, mushrooms and chicken, Greek Seasoning, 1 tblsp lemon juice
  • In glass bakeware add 1 tbsp olive oil then cream cheese block
  • Surround with fresh asparagus topped by 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Add cooked pasta
  • Onion, mushrooms, Greek Seasoning, and Alfredo sauce
  • Spread evenly
  • Sprinkle 1 tsp blackened seasoning
  • Top with shredded cheese (we used sliced provolone that we had)
  • Cover with aluminum foil
  • Bake 45 minutes @ 350°
  • Add halved tomatoes after baking
  • Serve warm
  • Enjoy with a light white wine if desired

Add 10 minutes more to cooking time if you prefer Asparagus cooked soft.  We made the biggest pan and everybody had seconds.  I hope it’s as popular for your weeknight dinner.

MALACASA 4.4 QT Baking Dish, 9x13 Large Casserole Dish for Oven, Ceramic Baking Pan, Rectangular Lasagna Pan Deep with Handles for Baking, Durable Microwave Oven Safe, White, Series BAKE-BAKE
MALACASA 4.4 QT Baking Dish, 9×13 Large Casserole Dish for Oven, Ceramic Baking Pan, Rectangular Lasagna Pan Deep with Handles for Baking, Durable Microwave Oven Safe, White, Series BAKE-BAKE
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Titanium Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Cutting Board Double Sided Food Grade, Pure Titanium and Wheat Straw PP, Dishwasher Safe Easy to Clean Large Size 16”×11”

Jen’s Greek Cassarole Bake

Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

Full of flavor, healthy and easy ro make, this dinner hits the spot for full tummies.  Filled with Ground turkey, Couscous, black olives, 2 kinds of sqaush, cheeses, and greek seasoning ant topped with lemon slices.  It’s perfect for a family meal, potluck dinner, and a good choice for lots of dietary needs.  So good I bet no one will even suspect it’s good for them…

Ingredients

1 Near East Couscous 5.9oz box

3 lbs ground turkey

16 oz sliced Pepper jack cheese

1 2.2 oz can sliced blak olives

1 8oz  spinach artichoke cheese dip

1/4 cup grated Parmesean Cheese

1 medium onion diced

2 tbls minced garlic

2 lemon sliced

2 Tbls Greek Seasoning

Zucchini

Yellow Squash

10 oz fresh grape tomatoes sliced in half

Directions

  1. Prepare a 9 x 13 glass baking dish             
  2. Prepare couscous as directed on packaging and set aside
  3. Chop zucchini and yellow squash into 1/2 pieces
  4. Brown Ground turkey with onion and minced garlic
  5. Drain, mix with spinach artichoke cheese dip,  set aside.
  6. In prepared dish spread browned turkey, couscous, vegetables and black olives in 3 layers. 
  7. Top bottom layers with Monterrey Jack cheese. 
  8. Sprinkle Paresean cheese and greek seasoning over top of cassarole.
  9. Top entire dish with lemon slices
  10. Bake @ 350° for 40 minutes until vegetables are cooked. 
  11. Top with grape tomatoes halves

Serve warm and Enjoy

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