Fun Ideas to Do with Dad:

This Father’s Day, why not treat Dad to a day filled with laughter, adventure, and quality time? Here are some fun and creative ideas to make his day extra special:

Backyard Camping Adventure: Pitch a tent in the backyard, set up a cozy campfire, and enjoy storytelling under the stars. It’s a great way to bond with Dad while reconnecting with nature.

DIY Barbecue Masterclass: Let Dad showcase his grilling skills while the family eagerly watches and learns. Create a friendly cook-off or invite some friends over for a mouthwatering barbecue feast.’

Sports Spectacular: Play a game of Dad’s favorite sport or organize a mini-tournament with family and friends. It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase your competitive spirit and create lasting memories.

Grilling Steaks to Perfection

When it comes to Father’s Day, there’s no better way to impress Dad than with a perfectly grilled steak.  Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to elevate your grilling game. A Five Star Home Foods’ Flavorful Ribeye Steak Extravaganza.

Classic Ribeye 

Ingredients:

• 2- Certified Angus Beef Thick-cut ribeye steaks
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup of Olive oil
• 3 – Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh rosemary sprigs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on both sides of the steaks to prevent sticking.
4. For an extra burst of flavor, rub the steaks with minced garlic cloves and place a few rosemary sprigs on top.
5. Grill the steaks for approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting the cooking time according to your desired doneness.
6. Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
7. Serve the sizzling steaks alongside Dad’s favorite sides, and watch as his face lights up with delight.

Celebrating Dads: An Integral Part of Five Star Home Foods

At Five Star Home Foods, we deeply value the important role that fathers play in our lives and in the Five Star community. Dads are not just providers and protectors; they are mentors, role models, and a source of unwavering support. From sharing family meals around the dinner table to instilling values of health and sustainability, fathers have a lasting impact on the well-being of their families.

We salute all the amazing dads who make Five Star a part of their journey towards healthier, happier lives. Your presence, love, and commitment inspire us every day, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and your families.

This Father’s Day, let’s honor the dads in our lives with laughter, delicious food, and cherished memories. Whether you embark on a backyard camping adventure, host a grill-off, or engage in a friendly sports competition, it’s the quality time and love that truly make the day special. And what better way to celebrate than by savoring a perfectly grilled steak together?

At Five Star Home Foods, we’re proud to be a part of your Father’s Day celebrations and your journey toward healthier, delicious meals. Cheers to all the remarkable dads out there—thank you for being the backbone of our families and the Heartland community.

Happy Father’s Day!

Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers with Pineapple

One recipe that stands out among our favorites is the Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers with Pineapple. This delightful combination of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and sweet pineapple is a true crowd-pleaser. The succulent chicken, marinated in a mouthwatering blend of seasonings, pairs perfectly with the caramelized sweetness of the grilled pineapple. It’s a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1lbs. Five Star Home Foods boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• Fresh pineapple, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Your favorite BBQ sauce
• Salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings of your choice
• Skewers (soak them in water before grilling to prevent burning)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken chunks with salt, pepper, and your preferred seasonings.
3. Thread the chicken and pineapple alternately onto the skewers.
4. Brush the skewers generously with BBQ sauce, ensuring they are coated on all sides.
5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the pineapple has a nice char.
6. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Indulge in the Finest Meats:

At Five Star, we pride ourselves on providing the finest cuts of meat that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Our selection of succulent steaks, including ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon, will be the highlight of any backyard BBQ. Grilled to perfection, they are guaranteed to leave your guests craving for more. And for burger lovers, our premium ground beef will create the juiciest and most flavorful patties.

Diverse Range of Poultry and Pork:

Variety is the spice of life, and we understand the importance of options. That’s why Five Star offers a diverse range of poultry and pork products. From different cuts of chicken, such as tender breasts and savory thighs, to mouthwatering pork ribs that will fall off the bone, our selection caters to all tastes. Fire up the grill and savor the delectable flavors that will make your summer gatherings unforgettable.

Sides to Complete the Experience:

No summer party is complete without delectable sides, and Five Star has a wide array to choose from. Crispy french fries, golden tater tots, and crunchy onion rings will perfectly complement your main dishes. Add some sizzle to your barbecue with our juicy bratwurst and flavorful hot dogs. Our selection of seafood, including shrimp and salmon, will add a touch of elegance to any summer celebration.

Convenience and Quality:

At Five Star Home Foods, we understand that convenience is key when it comes to enjoying your summer to the fullest. Our commitment to quality means you can trust that our products are sourced from reputable suppliers and meet the highest standards. With our wide selection and easy online ordering, you can spend less time shopping and more time enjoying summer fun with your loved ones.

This summer, make Five Star Home Foods your go-to destination for all your seasonal celebrations. With our unparalleled selection of steaks, premium ground beef, poultry, pork, sides, and seafood, we ensure that your summer gatherings will be filled with flavor and enjoyment. From backyard BBQs to pool parties, beach trips, and Fourth of July celebrations, our one-stop shop has everything you need to create memorable moments. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your summer fun – sign up with Five Star Home Foods today and make this summer truly unforgettable.

Carbon Footprint Reduction:  Sourcing Locally for a Greener Future:

Food production, transportation, and packaging contribute to carbon emissions and climate change. At Five Star Home Foods, we prioritize sourcing our ingredients from local farmers and ranchers. By doing so, we reduce transportation distances, support sustainable farming practices, and decrease our carbon footprint. By choosing locally sourced and sustainable foods, you can play a crucial role in combating climate change and fostering a healthier planet.

Plastic Waste Reduction: Making a Difference, One Package at a Time:

Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to our environment and wildlife. At Heartland Foods, we are committed to minimizing plastic waste. We carefully select eco-friendly packaging options to reduce our reliance on single-use plastics. By opting for sustainable packaging alternatives, we can collectively protect our oceans and create a cleaner, healthier future for generations to come.

Unparalleled Quality and Taste:

At Five Star Foods, we take great pride in offering the finest quality burgers crafted from locally sourced, premium ingredients. Our commitment to using fresh, high-quality meat and produce ensures that every bite is a burst of flavor. Whether you prefer classic beef patties, tender chicken, or flavorful turkey, we have something to suit every palate.

Variety to Delight Your Taste Buds:

Diversity is the key to an exceptional burger experience. Our menu features an extensive range of burger creations, each uniquely designed to tantalize your taste buds. From the traditional and timeless cheeseburgers to bold and innovative gourmet selections, our offerings cater to every mood and preference. With options like the premium ground bison, Steak Burgers, and our premium blend of chuck, brisket and short ribs, there’s something for everyone.

Locally Sourced and Sustainable Ingredients:

We believe in supporting local farmers and suppliers while promoting sustainability. By sourcing our ingredients from nearby communities, we ensure freshness and contribute to the local economy. We provide ethically raised meat and organic produce guaranteeing an eco-conscious and guilt-free dining experience.

Engaging with Five Star Home Foods:

National Burger Day is the perfect occasion to engage with Five Star Home Foods. Visit our website to explore our menu, learn about our commitment to sustainability, and discover our farm-to-table philosophy. Join our loyalty program to earn exciting rewards and exclusive offers, keeping you connected to all things Five Star.

National Burger Day is a remarkable occasion for burger enthusiasts nationwide, and Five Star Home Foods is your go-to destination to satisfy your cravings. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and unmatched taste makes us the top choice for burger lovers. Join us in celebrating this special day, indulge in our delectable creations, and experience the true flavors of Five Star Home Foods. 

Sheet-Pan Dinners

Picture this: you come home after a long day of work or running errands, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. But worry not, because sheet pan meals are here to rescue you! With just a few minutes of prep and a single pan, you can create a wholesome, well-balanced meal that will leave your family begging for seconds.

Sheet pan meals are the epitome of convenience. Simply toss your favorite protein (think succulent chicken, juicy steak, or flavorful salmon) and a rainbow of fresh vegetables onto a sheet pan, add some herbs, spices, and a drizzle of olive oil, and pop it into the oven. While it bakes, you can take a well-deserved break or spend quality time with your loved ones. The best part? Minimal cleanup! That’s right, one pan means less time spent washing dishes and more time doing the things you love.

Now, let’s talk about the benefits beyond convenience. Sheet pan meals allow you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen. Experiment with different flavor profiles, spice blends, and seasonal produce to keep things exciting and versatile. It’s a great way to introduce new vegetables to your family, as the roasting process brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their texture.

Sheet pan meals offer a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. 

With Heartland Foods’ range of frozen all-natural proteins and organic vegetables, you can ensure your family is getting the nourishment they need. Plus, the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas of these meals will make your dinner table Instagram-worthy!

So, busy moms, embrace the power of sheet pan meals! They are the ultimate weapon in your weeknight arsenal, saving you time, reducing stress, and delighting your family’s taste buds. From juicy chicken to sizzling steak and zesty salmon, the possibilities are endless. Say goodbye to the same old boring dinners and embrace the convenience, healthiness, and incredible flavors of these delightful creations. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s start sheet-panning and savor the goodness!

Fusion ’cue: Unique Ingredients Taking Over the Grill Scene

One trend that has been gaining momentum in recent years is the use of unique and unexpected ingredients. And backyard grills are no exception to the explosion of interest in global flavors such as Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin and West African cuisine. Whether it’s going full on international foods or incorporating global spices and chiles into standard American fare, get ready to expand your palates in the year ahead.

Smoked prime brisket with Thai green curry sauce? Barbecued chicken wings served with massaman spices? Just when you thought you knew all the exotic dishes you needed to know—from Peruvian anticuchos (beef heart kebabs) to Balinese sate—American grill masters continue to expand our horizons. This year, get ready to add three new terms to your grilling vocabulary: shipudim, chichinga, and inihaw. 

The first is Israeli barbecue—skewers of poultry, lamb, and vegetables scented with cumin, turmeric, and other Middle Eastern spices and grilled over charcoal. Chichinga refers to West African barbecue—spicy skewers of beef, lamb, or goat seasoned with a fiery blend of chili peppers, ginger, and ground peanuts. Experience it with the grilled beef with peanut flour in The Barbecue Bible. Iiahaw refers to Filipino barbecue—every imaginable cut of chicken, pork, and even seafood marinated with soy sauce. We love this meshing of flavors and live fire cooking techniques from different cultures. So will you!

Breakfast and Brunch on the Menu

Grilling out isn’t just for dinner anymore. Morning grilling has doubled in the past five years and that will only increase in 2023 as busy families increasingly carve out time together on weekend mornings to cook the most important meal of their day. 

Rotisserie grilling goes prime time:

Over the past year, we have noticed a new trend gaining traction.  At the top of many grill trending lists in the last year, more half involved spit-roasting. We’re here for it and it seems we’re not alone. Big Green Egg added a rotisserie attachment to its accessory line and will launch a rotisserie basket in 2023. The Kalamazoo Gaucho Grill comes with a rotisserie heavy duty enough to handle a whole prime rib. There’s more to rotisserie grilling than the mesmerizing spin of the turnspit. The slow, gentle rotation ensures even browning on the outside while keeping the meat moist in the center. The meat bastes in its own fat and juices. Many grill enthusiasts are also experimenting with different marinades and rubs to add extra flavor and complexity to their rotisserie-grilled dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting, trying out rotisserie grilling can be a fun and delicious way to take your outdoor cooking to the next level. How’s that for a new turn on ‘cue?

Wood Pellets:

Finally, there has been a surge in interest in pellet grills. These grills use compressed wood pellets to heat and smoke food, and they offer precise temperature control and the ability to smoke, grill, and roast all in one unit. Pellet grills have become increasingly popular for their convenience and versatility, making them a go-to choice for many grill enthusiasts.

Finding the Time to Try all these Trends?

Our summer bucket list stretches pretty long every year (swim in the ocean, bite into a perfectly ripe peach and let the juice run down our wrists, watch fireworks with friends). At the top of the list is, of course, to eat as many meals off the grill as we possibly can. To achieve this, you can’t relegate grilling to just the weekends: With all the kebabs, foil packs, and BBQ classics on the menu (not to mention all the grilled fruits for dessert), there are just TOO many delicious foods to throw on there all week long. Try one of our weeknight dinners on the grill and see for yourself.

Overall, this summer promises to be full of exciting grill trends and delicious meals. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting, there’s no better time to fire up the grill and kick off the summer season.

Here are some of the best global foods foil packet grilling recipes that are sure to impress:

Mediterranean Chicken: In a foil packet, layer Five Star Home Foods boneless, skinless chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and grill for 15-20 minutes.

Steak Fajitas and Mexican Street Corn: In a foil packet, layer 1½ lbs. Certified Angus Beef Top Sirloin steak – thinly sliced, cayenne powder, chili powder, cumin lime juice, red onion, bell peppers, and garlic. In another foil packet, add a cup of Heartland Foods frozen corn, a pat of butter, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. Grill for 15-20 minutes.

Thai Shrimp: In a foil packet, layer Five Star Home Foods large shrimp, Cascadian Farms frozen peas, sliced bell peppers, green onions, soy sauce, and ginger. Grill for 10-12 minutes.

Shawarma-Spiced Chicken: Mix 1½ pounds Five Star Home Foods boneless, skinless chicken breast, olives, garlic, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, lemon juice, olive oil and with coriander, cumin, cardamom, cayenne pepper and paprika to create a shawarma spice blend. In a foil packet, add a scoop of microwaveable brown rice, drizzle with olive oil and add the chicken-vegetable mixture and grill for 20 – 25 mins. Top each packet with Greek yogurt, lemon slices and torn mint.

Brazilian Steak and Veggies: In a foil packet, layer 1½ lbs. Certified Angus Beef Top Sirloin steak – thinly sliced, red onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Drizzle with chimichurri sauce and grill for 15-20 minutes.

These global foil packet grilling recipes are perfect for a summer BBQ or a fun and flavorful weeknight meal. Try them out and discover your new favorite foil packet recipe!

International BBQ Flavors

Chinese barbecue, also known as “char siu,” is a popular dish in Cantonese cuisine that consists of roasted pork that is sweet and savory. The pork is marinated in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and five-spice powder, giving it a distinct flavor. Chinese barbecue is often served with steamed rice, noodles, or in a variety of dishes such as fried rice or noodle soups.

In Japan, barbecue is called yakiniku, which means “grilled meat” in Japanese. It is a popular dining experience where customers grill their meat at their table using a charcoal or gas grill. The meat is usually marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and served with sides such as kimchi, rice, and miso soup.

Korean barbecue, also known as “gogi-gui,” is a popular style of dining in Korea that involves grilling meat at the table. The meat is often marinated in a savory and sweet sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and sugar. Korean barbecue is typically served with a variety of side dishes, such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and rice.

Filipino barbecue, also known as “inasal,” is a popular street food in the Philippines that is made from marinated chicken or pork skewered and grilled over hot coals. The marinade is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, calamansi juice, brown sugar, garlic, and vinegar, giving the meat a sweet and tangy flavor. Filipino barbecue is often served with rice and a side of atchara, which is a pickled papaya salad.

International barbecue is a celebration of culture and community that has taken on different forms around the world. From the slow-smoked brisket in Texas to the sizzling yakiniku in Japan, each country has its own unique take on the art of BBQ. So the next time you fire up the grill, try something new and embrace the diversity of international barbecue.

A Barbecue History Crash Course

Americans like to think that barbecue is an American tradition, right up there with apple pie and baseball. Barbecue has been a part of American culture for centuries, and its roots can be traced back to Native American and African American culinary traditions. Native American tribes in the southeastern part of the country were known to cook meat over open fires, and European settlers brought their own methods of cooking meat to the region. In the southern United States, barbecue became a popular way to cook pork in the 19th century. The cooking process involved slow-smoking the meat over hickory or oak wood and then basting it with a sauce made from vinegar, tomato, or mustard. As barbecue spread throughout the country, different regions developed their own distinct styles.

Recipes fit for a Queen

Our best Mother’s Day brunch and dinner ideas will guide you in the right direction whether she has a sweet tooth—think strawberry French Toast , —or a craving for the savory such as Roasted Butternut Squash. For our Mother’s Day brunch and dinner recipes fit for a queen, read on—and, please, don’t forget to do the dishes.

Recipes below: 

Mango Tropical Smoothie Bowl and Sheet Pan Brunch with sausage patties, French Toast and fruit topping,  and Lemony Garlic and Herb Pork Tenderloin.