Labor Day weekend is our unofficial send-off to summer, and as a mom of three, I’m all about making it memorable without making it complicated. Whether we’re grilling on the patio, picnicking at the park, or hosting a backyard bash with friends, these handpicked essentials help me keep things festive, flavorful, and fuss-free.

Here’s what I’m loving this season!

HORMEL GATHERINGS® Party Trays

When I say these trays are a lifesaver, I mean it. Between prepping activities for the kids and keeping everyone fed, I don’t always have time to build a charcuterie board from scratch. That’s where HORMEL GATHERINGS® Party Trays come in! Loaded with deli meats, cheeses, and crackers, they’re ready to serve straight from the fridge. We’ve taken them to potlucks, to the park, and even just out on the patio for snacks under the stars. No prep, no mess, just happy snacking this Labor Day! Learn more at www.hormel.com. Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL.

Pipcorn

My kids are snack monsters, and Pipcorn is one of those rare finds that satisfies their cravings and my desire to keep things clean and healthy. Their Mini Popcorn and Twists are vegan, gluten-free, and made from heirloom corn. But the real MVP? Pipcorn Fries. They’re crunchy, cheesy, and totally addictive, without the junk. We pack them for road trips, lunchboxes, and yes, even mom’s secret stash. Explore flavors at https://www.pipsnacks.com/. Shop select items on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL.

PATH’s Made in USA Bottles

These refillable aluminum bottles are my go-to for keeping drinks cold and cutting down on single-use plastic. PATH’s Made in USA collection is sleek, sustainable, and perfect for Labor Day outings. I love that they’re BPA-free and recyclable, and the kids love customizing theirs with stickers. Bonus: no more losing expensive tumblers at the park. Grab yours at https://drinkpathwater.com. Find select styles on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL

Kenyon City Grill

We’ve officially ditched the charcoal! The Kenyon City Grill is electric, smokeless, and safe to use indoors or out, which means I can grill scalloped potatoes while the kids play in the yard, or sear salmon on a rainy day. It heats up fast, cleans up easily, and gives that perfect restaurant-style finish. It’s a game-changer for small spaces and busy families this Labor Day! Check it out at www.cookwithkenyon.com. Shop accessories on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL.

Welch’s

Welch’s is bringing the flavor this Labor Day with creative twists on classics. We’re loving their Backyard Burgers topped with Grape Jelly Caramelized Onions and the Grape & Cheddar Salad with a tangy Grape Yogurt Dressing. This summer, we were fans of the Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches! And for sipping? Welch’s Zero Sugar Tropical Punch is a hit with my crew—refreshing, fruity, and guilt-free. Recipes and more at https://www.welchs.com/. Stock up via Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL.

SUMM! Spring Rolls

These grill-friendly spring rolls are a surprise hit at our cookouts. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to serve, they’re perfect for entertaining. I toss them on the grill while prepping sides, and they disappear fast—especially when dipped in peanut sauce or sweet chili. Find SUMM! products on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL.

Main St. Bistro

When I need sides that feel homemade but don’t require hours in the kitchen, Main Street Bistro delivers. Their Baked Scalloped Potatoes and Mac & Cheese are creamy, comforting, and kid-approved. I pop them in the oven while we set the table or play outside. Find out where to buy Main St. Bistro online at www.mainstbistro.com.

Hubbard Peanut Company (Hubs)

Hubs peanuts are a crunchy, protein-packed snack that we keep on hand year-round. Their Honey Kissed and Brittle varieties are dangerously delicious, and the Power Packs are perfect for tossing in the diaper bag or picnic basket. Plus, they’re a family-owned brand with heart, and that matters to me. Browse their full line at https://www.hubspeanuts.com/. Shop select flavors on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL.

Keep It Savory Salt Co.

I’m obsessed with these artisanal salts. Jalapeño Lime is my go-to for grilled corn and mocktails, Shiitake Cremini adds depth to veggie dishes, and Vanilla Bean? Let’s just say my chocolate chip cookies have never tasted better! These little jars pack big flavor and make me feel like a kitchen wizard. Discover more at https://www.keepitsavory.com/. Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL.

El Guapo Bitters & Soda

For a refreshing, zero-proof sip that feels grown-up, El Guapo’s Bitters & Soda is my pick. Love Potion is floral and tart, while Cucumber Lavender is crisp and citrusy. I serve them over ice with fruit slices for a picnic-perfect drink that’s sugar-free and kid-friendly. Explore flavors at https://www.elguapobitters.com/. Shop select items on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL

Oolie

Oolie’s egg-based dips are redefining what it means to snack smart and eat well—without compromising on flavor or nutrition. As a mom always looking for clean, protein-rich options that my kids will actually eat, Oolie checks every box. Made from upcycled, free-range eggs and blended with coconut cream, fresh veggies, and herbs, these dips are dairy-free but still rich and creamy. With 2 grams of protein per tablespoon, they rival cottage cheese but taste way better! Whether you’re keto, dairy-free, or just craving something new, Oolie is the creamy, crave-worthy upgrade your Labor Day party needs! Learn more at www.ooliefoods.com.

Farberware Build-a-Board

This clever board makes snack prep feel like an art project. I let the kids help arrange cheeses, fruits, and nuts in the compartments, then snap on the clear lid for easy transport. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a pretty spread on the patio. Find it on Amazon: https://amzn.to/41StCVL

Whether you’re hosting a big bash or keeping it cozy with your crew, these Labor Day essentials help you celebrate with ease, flavor, and a little extra joy. From my family to yours – happy grilling, snacking, and memory-making.

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, including Lowcountry Live, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram @TinyGreenMom and Pinterest.

*Company generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only share products I truly love and use with my own family.

Whip up these delicious and satisfying veggie wraps in minutes! This simple recipe features a vibrant mix of vegetables, a creamy avocado mash enhanced with Stella Foods Bright Pepper, while Addictive Heat to add tanginess and spiciness to the dish!

Addictive Heat Vegetarian Burritos

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup mushrooms in quarters

1 cup Stella Foods Addictive Heat

Sliced tomatoes, drained and chopped

1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper

1 cup chopped zucchini

1 cup chopped yellow zucchini

4 large flour tortillas

1 avocado

Juice of 1/4 lemon

Stella Foods Bright Pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add mushrooms, tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, zucchini and yellow zucchini and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.

Season with Stella Foods Addictive Heat

2. Prepare the avocado

Peel and mash the avocado with a fork.

Stir in the lemon juice and Stella Foods Bright Pepper.

3. Fill the tortillas

Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.

Spread the avocado mash across the warm tortilla

Place the vegetables across the avocado mash

Fold the sides of the tortillas over the filling and roll up tightly, securing with a toothpick or cocktail pick.

Serve immediately.

You can adjust the amount of Stella Foods Bright Pepper and Addictive Heat to your preferred level of tanginess and spiciness. You can also add other toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or cheese.

Recipe and image courtesy of Stella Foods.

Get ready to score big with your game day spread! Start with Reser’s Fine Foods Cole Slaw for a fresh, crunchy addition that pairs perfectly with any dish. Dean’s new Mexican Street Corn Dip brings the fiesta with creamy roasted corn and zesty lime, sure to be a hit with everyone. Cedar’s Foods offers organic hommos and tzatziki sauce made with wholesome ingredients, perfect for dipping with Garden Veggie Flavor Burst Tortilla Chips. For plant-based options, Hodo Foods’ Chili Crisp, Sambal Sweet Chili, and Zesty Lemon dips bring vibrant flavors that are good for you and the planet. And don’t forget Kite Hill’s Queso Dip, a vegan delight that’s creamy, bold, and made from simple, natural ingredients. With this lineup of dips and chips, your Super Bowl party will be both delicious and green!

Hodo Dips

Game day calls for bold flavors and unforgettable dips that bring people together. That’s where Hodo Dips shine! Imagine a spread of vibrant, plant-based dips like the spicy punch of Chili Crisp, the irresistible sweetness and heat of Sambal Sweet Chili, and the refreshing zest of Zesty Lemon. Each dip is not only packed with flavor but also made from high-quality ingredients that you can feel good about. Whether you’re dunking veggies, chips, or slathering them on a sandwich, Hodo Dips will elevate your game day snacks to a whole new level. So, gather your friends, cheer on your team (or Taylor’s boyfriend!), and enjoy the flavors that make every bite a touchdown! You can find Hodo Dips at Whole Foods as well as on their website, www.hodofoods.com.

Garden Veggie Flavor Burst Tortilla Chips

Are you ready for a taste bud adventure like no other? The Garden Veggie Flavor Burst Tortilla Chips are perfect for your family gatherings and, of course, Super Bowl Sunday! These chips aren’t just your ordinary snack. They’re made from a delicious blend of corn and vibrant veggies, making them not only tasty but also a delightful treat the whole family can enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Nacho Cheese or crave the tangy Zesty Ranch, they’ve got you covered with flavors that will leave everyone reaching for more. Available at your favorite retailers like Target and Walmart, the Garden Veggie Flavor Burst Nacho Cheese and Garden Veggie Flavor Burst Zesty Ranch are ready to add excitement to your snack table. Make your Super Bowl party unforgettable with these fan favorites!

Cedar’s Foods Organic Hommos & Tzatziki Sauce

Your game day party just got a delicious upgrade with Cedar’s Foods Organic Hommos, Tzatziki Sauce and more! Imagine your guests savoring the rich, creamy hommos varieties made from organic chickpeas, tahini, and a hint of garlic, perfectly paired with Cedar’s crunchy, Baked Pita Chips for the ultimate snacking experience. Our favorite is the refreshing tzatziki sauce, bursting with the flavors of cool cucumber, tangy yogurt, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re setting up a vibrant Mediterranean platter or looking for a healthier dip option, Cedar’s Foods has got you covered, making your game day spread as exciting as the game itself!

Kite Hill Queso Dip

Hosting a Super Bowl Sunday bash? Get ready to score big with Kite Hill’s Queso Dip! This plant-based delight is packed with bold, creamy flavor that’ll have both vegans and non-vegans alike cheering for more. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like almonds and tomatoes, it pairs perfectly with chips, veggies, or even drizzled over nachos for that game-day flair. Elevate your snack game with a dip that’s as exciting as the big plays on the field! Learn more at Queso Dip – Kite Hill Store.

Reser’s Fine Foods Cole Slaw

For game day flair and a memorable Super Bowl Sunday feast, Reser’s Fine Foods Cole Slaw is your MVP (Most Valuable Plate). This creamy, tangy, and crunchy delight brings together fresh cabbage, carrots, and a special blend of seasonings, making it the perfect companion for your tailgate favorites. Whether paired with juicy burgers, succulent barbecue, or Tofu Buffalo Wings, Reser’s Cole Slaw adds a refreshing twist that keeps fans cheering for more. So, grab a tub and elevate your game day grub—after all, every touchdown deserves a taste that’s as sensational as the celebration! Visit Reser’s Fine Foods for store locations.

Dean’s Cantina Dairy Dip – Mexican Street Corn

Get ready to take your game day spread to the next level with Dean’s new Mexican Street Corn dip! This irresistible blend of creamy goodness, roasted corn, and a hint of zesty lime is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s like having a taste of a vibrant fiesta right in your living room. Pair it with your favorite chips or veggie sticks, and watch your guests dive in for more. With this dip on your table, your Super Bowl party is bound to be a touchdown in flavor! Visit their website for store locations.

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram and X at @TinyGreenMom.

*Companies generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

When it comes to the ultimate game day snack, look no further than Kite Hill’s Pizza Bagel Cream Cheese Pockets. These delightful bites bring together the best of both worlds – the cheesy, savory flavors of pizza and the comforting, creamy goodness of bagels and cream cheese. Perfectly sized for sharing, they are sure to be a hit at your Super Bowl Sunday gathering, offering a plant-based twist that even non-vegans will love. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these pockets will have everyone reaching for more!

Ingredients

1 pound ball of store bought or homemade pizza dough

1 container Kite Hill Plain Cream Cheese

5 Tablespoons chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained)

1 Tablespoon sliced basil

All-purpose flour for dusting

Olive oil for brushing

Flaky salt

Preparation

Preheat oven to 425. Line 2 large baking sheets (half sheet pan size) with parchment paper.

Combine cream cheese, sun dried tomatoes, and basil. Taste and add salt if needed.

Roll dough out onto a floured surface until 1/4-inch thick. (If dough springs back a lot when rolling, let sit another 5 minutes and try again.)

Using a 3 inch ring mold or cup/bowl, cut 14-16 round pieces of dough.

In the center of each piece place 2 teaspoons of filling. Fold over and crimp with a fork or finger.

Place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Repeat. (If using a half-sheet sized pan, space 8 out on 1 pan and 8 on the other.)

Brush all calzones with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until light golden brown with some medium golden spots. You can bake 2 pans at a time, but rotate pan placement halfway through.

Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe and image courtesy of Kite Hill.*

It’s easy to transform simple tofu into a spicy sensation with these delicious buffalo wings for your Super Bowl party! Hodo Foods and World of Vegan make it easy to make these tangy, incredibly tempting and mouthwatering wings which are ideal for serving during the big game!

Tofu Buffalo Wings

Ingredients

For the wings:

1 block Hodo Extra Firm Tofu

1 cup water

½ cup panko bread crumbs

⅓ cup cornstarch

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon oregano

⅓ cup vegan buffalo sauce, such as Frank’s Red Hot Sauce original

½ tablespoon vegan butter

For serving:

Celery sticks

Carrot sticks

Hodo Chili Crisp Dip, Zesty Lemon Dip, and/or Sambal Sweet Chili Dip

Chives, to garnish

Directions:

Cut the tofu into tofu sticks approximately 2.5 inches long, ½ inch thick, and 1 inch wide. (The shape and size can vary, and you can cut (or tear) them into any size or shape you’d like.)

Pour the water into one bowl (for dipping), panko in another bowl, and in a third bowl add the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and pepper.

Dip each tofu into the water, then cornstarch mixture, then the water again, and then into the panko crumbs. Press panko crumbs into the tofu to coat fully and then place each strip in the air fryer basket in a flat layer, leaving some space between each.

Air fry at 350° for 10 mins, flip, and continue air frying for an additional 3 minutes until crispy.

In a small bowl, add the buffalo sauce and butter and microwave in 20 second increments, stirring in between each, until the butter has melted.

Dip each crispy tofu wing into the buffalo sauce mixture to coat, and place each back in the air fryer and air fry for 3-5 more minutes at 350°. This will make the outside nice and crispy. If desired, you can then dip again in buffalo sauce to create a glossy coating.

Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and any of Hodo’s dips (Chili Crisp Dip, Zesty Lemon Dip, and/or Sambal Sweet Chili Dip). Garnish with a sprinkle of chives, if desired.

Recipe and image courtesy of Hodo Foods and World of Vegan.*

Simple, healthy, and affordable – here’s a kid-friendly recipe for PB & J Overnight Oats from Registered Dietitian Jessica Cording for our back-to-school series on nutritious meals the whole family will love.

PB & J Overnight Oats

Ingredients

3/4 cup frozen DOLE® Mixed Berries, divided
1/3 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon ground flax seeds
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2/3 cup 2% milk or unsweetened non-dairy milk of choice (“Mom” prefers organic unsweetened almond milk)
1 tablespoon peanut butter or your favorite nut or seed butter (“Mom” prefers No Nut Butter from The Sneaky Chef)

Preparation

1. Mix 1/2 cup of frozen mixed berries, oats, chia seeds, ground flax seeds, cinnamon, vanilla and milk in a container with a lid.

2. Cover mixed oats and store in the fridge overnight.

3. When you’re ready to eat, uncover and enjoy cold or heat in the microwave 1-2 minutes on high.

4. Top your overnight oats with peanut butter, fruit preserves, and remaining berries, which can be enjoyed from the freezer or thawed for 30 seconds in the microwave.

Note: Add your favorite fruit preserves for extra sweetness. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rolled oats.

Makes: 1 serving
Prep: 5 min.

*Recipe and image courtesy of RD Jessica Cording.*

Nosh on healthier holiday-inspired snacks through the holidays! Nutritious and festive, this Gingerbread Granola will have the entire family clamoring for more!

Gingerbread Granola

Ingredients

4 Cups of old-fashioned rolled oats
1 1/2 Cups of raw pecans
1 Teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
1/2 Scoop of VeganSmart Vanilla
1/2 Teaspoon of cinnamon
1/2 Teaspoon of ground ginger
1/2 Cup of melted coconut oil
1/2 Cup Molasses
3/4 Teaspoon of vanilla (“Mom” prefers Nielsen-Massey Organic Fairtrade Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract)
1/3 Cup of chopped, dried cranberries
1/3 Cup of chopped candied ginger

vegansmart vanilla

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a half-sheet pan with parchment paper.

Combine the oats, pecans, salt, VeganSmart Vanilla, cinnamon, and ground ginger into a mixing bowl. Stir mixture thoroughly.

Add the coconut oil, maple syrup, molasses, and vanilla to the mixture. Continue to mix together until fully combined.

Turn the granola mixture out onto your prepared pan and spread into an even layer.

Bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the granola from the oven and stir to make sure the granola cooks evenly. Place the pan back in the oven for 10 more minutes.

While the granola cooks, chop the dried cranberries and candied ginger.

After 10 minutes is up, remove the pan from the oven, add the chopped cranberries and candied ginger to the granola and mix to combine.

Let the granola cool for about 10 minutes before eating. As the granola cools off, it will continue to cook and may be wet at first, this is normal.

Enjoy gingerbread granola on-the-go or around the house as you celebrate the holidays this season!

*Recipe and image courtesy of VeganSmart.*

Fall tailgating and backyard cookouts are in full swing! For guests who want to lighten things up a bit, or who are vegetarian, this simply scrumptious recipe for black bean burgers gets serious flavor from Moore’s Original Marinade! This marinade is gluten-free and Kosher, and offers a robust hickory flavor. Yum!

Moore’s Original Black Bean Veggie Burger

Ingredients

½ cup onions, chopped
¼ cup green bell pepper, chopped
¼ cup cilantro, chopped
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 ½ cup breadcrumbs or cooked quinoa (or more if needed)
3 tbsp. Moore’s Original Marinade
2 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. minced garlic
2 tbsp. oil or butter (“Mom” prefers organic)
Hamburger buns
Desired toppings such as cheese, ketchup, mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomato, etc.

Preparation

1. Add onions, bell peppers, cilantro, black beans, marinade, cumin, salt and garlic and pulse in a food processor. Add breadcrumbs and pulse a few more times. Mixture should be thick enough not to fall off of a spoon. Add more breadcrumbs until thick, if needed.
2. Form mixture into golf ball size pieces and press to form patties.
3. Heat 2 tbsp. oil over medium high heat. Cook each patty for 2-3 on each side until desired doneness.
4. Serve on hamburger buns with desired toppings.

Moore's Marinade Group

*Recipe and image courtesy of Moore’s Marinades & Sauces.*

Move over veggie kabobs, frozen black bean burger patties, tofu and salads! Derived from pecans, garbanzo beans and spices – all you need is the Neat Original Mix for a great-tasting meatless burger. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, trying to eat less meat or just want to be a good host – it’s not always easy coming up with great-tasting, meatless options for cookouts. neat has you covered, delivering an all-natural, high-quality protein with ingredients people know and can pronounce.

neat Meatless Burger

Ingredients

1 Pack of neat Original Mix
1 egg or neat egg substitute
¼ cup water
½ cup diced vegetables

Preparation

Combine all ingredients & mix well. Form mixture into four patties. Brown for 3 ½ minutes on each side in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place on a toasted bun; top with desired condiments. “Mom” loves fresh slices of tomato and avocado on top, or guacamole & swiss cheese! Enjoy!

*Recipe and image courtesy of neat.*

March is National Nutrition Month, and what better way to kick off the first weekend of the month with this energizing Radiance Juice from EAT WITH INTENTION by Cassandra Bodzak, a gorgeous healthy living cookbook that combines daily meditation with plant based recipes!

Roald Dahl famously said: “If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.” I couldn’t agree more. Beauty starts from within and permeates outward. Thinking thoughts that nourish your soul and eating foods that nourish your body are more effective than the most luxurious makeup money can buy. You can’t fake true radiance. This juice is packed with nutrients that will get you glowing from the inside out! Pineapple juice promotes healthy skin and helps prevent acne; watercress is also great for your overall health with its high levels of vitamin C; and cucumber has cooling and moisturizing properties.

Radiance Juice

Ingredients

½ cup (17 g) watercress
2 cucumbers, peeled
2 limes, peeled 1 cup (166 g)
Pineapple chunks

Preparation

1. Starting with the watercress, juice all the ingredients into a large glass.
2. Lightly stir and serve immediately.

Yield: 1 serving

*Recipe and image courtesy of Eat with Intention by Cassandra Bodzak.*

Cassandra Bodzak is a holistic lifestyle guide and host of the online cooking show, Eat with Intention. Discover more with:

http://cassandrabodzak.com/

https://www.instagram.com/cassandrabodzak/