Over the weekend, our June gloom lifted a bit and I was reminded that summer really is in full swing.  One of the things I enjoy about summer is getting together with friends.  My husband and I are foodies, so our get togethers usually include a diverse array of eats and treats.

One of my favorite markets offers a variety of affordable, tasty foods to spice up summer picnics, barbecues, and gatherings.  To celebrate summer, Fresh & Easy has teamed up with award-winning grilling expert Neil Strawder (a.k.a. Bigmista) to barbeque for visitors to the store throughout the summer.  He will serve some of Fresh & Easy’s barbecue favorites and share his secrets to grilling.  Here is the list of participating locations:

10930 Rosecrans Ave

Norwalk, CA  90650

Time:  5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

2121 W. Main St. Suite 300

Alhambra, CA  91801

Time:  4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

19350 – A W. Nordhoff St.

Northridge, CA  91324

Time:  4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

*The first 100 people will receive a reusable bag.

Not only are their foods affordable, they’re free from artificial flavors, colors, trans fats, and mostly free from high fructose corn syrup.  Most of their condiments are under $3.00 (where can you get Organic Ketchup for $1.79?).  Their breads are one of my favorites because they are baked daily by Il Fornaio.  The store also offers a variety of whole grain breads if you’re looking to eliminate white flour.

Fresh & Easy’s desserts are always really yummy.  If you’re looking for something a bit on they healthier side, try their Soft Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies with Walnuts.  And if you’re looking for a great-tasting, affordable wine, check out The Vine Yard Pinot Gris ($6.99).  You can pair it with chicken, fish, and salad dishes and although it’s not sweet per se, it’s a blend of pear, honeydew melon, and citrus flavors which gives it a bit of a “fruity” flavor.

Here is a great recipe for a brine and a savory rub to help you get your grill on (courtesy of Fresh & Easy and Bigmista):

Brine:

1/2 cup salt

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 T. allspice

2 T. garlic powder

1/2 gallon water

Put all ingredients in a large plastic bag or a 16-quart pot and soak chicken for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Discard the brine and rinse the chicken.  Pat dry with paper towels and rub with a flavorful marinade.

Savory Rub

4 parts kosher salt

4 parts garlic powder

2 parts black pepper

1 part cayenne

Can be used with any type of meat.

No compensation was received for this post.  Product samples were provided to facilitate this review.