Target’s Best Kept Secret: Delicious Recipes Using Good & Gather Groceries
Target, known for its stylish home goods and trendy clothing, also boasts a surprisingly impressive grocery section, especially its own brand, Good & Gather. Offering high-quality ingredients at affordable prices, Good & Gather makes creating delicious and budget-friendly meals easier than ever. This article explores some fantastic recipes you can whip up using mostly, if not entirely, Good & Gather products, complete with detailed instructions and helpful tips. Get ready to transform your Target run into a culinary adventure!
## Why Good & Gather?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Good & Gather is a great option for your grocery needs:
* **Quality:** Good & Gather emphasizes quality ingredients, often sourcing from trusted suppliers. You’ll find organic options, sustainably sourced products, and a focus on clean ingredients.
* **Affordability:** Compared to name-brand alternatives, Good & Gather offers competitive pricing, allowing you to save money without sacrificing quality.
* **Variety:** From pantry staples to fresh produce, Good & Gather has a wide range of products to meet your culinary needs. They constantly introduce new and exciting items, keeping your meals interesting.
* **Convenience:** Shopping for groceries while browsing home decor? Yes, please! Target’s convenience factor is undeniable.
## Recipe 1: Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
This classic comfort food gets a gourmet upgrade using Good & Gather ingredients. The creamy tomato soup is rich and flavorful, while the grilled cheese croutons add a delightful crunch and cheesy goodness.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tbsp Good & Gather Olive Oil
* 1 medium Good & Gather Yellow Onion, chopped
* 2 cloves Good & Gather Garlic, minced
* 1 (28 oz) can Good & Gather Crushed Tomatoes
* 1 (15 oz) can Good & Gather Tomato Sauce
* 4 cups Good & Gather Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth for a vegetarian option)
* 1 tsp Good & Gather Dried Basil
* ½ tsp Good & Gather Dried Oregano
* ¼ tsp Good & Gather Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* ½ cup Good & Gather Heavy Cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
* 4 slices Good & Gather White Bread (or your favorite bread)
* 2 slices Good & Gather Cheddar Cheese, halved
* 2 tbsp Good & Gather Butter, softened
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Broth:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth (or vegetable broth), dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Simmer:** Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a richer flavor, simmer for up to an hour.
4. **Blend (Optional):** For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids!
5. **Stir in Cream:** Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and heat through gently. Do not boil.
6. **Prepare Grilled Cheese Croutons:** While the soup is simmering, prepare the grilled cheese croutons. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top each slice with cheddar cheese halves. Place the remaining bread slices, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
7. **Grill Croutons:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly.
8. **Cut into Croutons:** Cut each grilled cheese sandwich into small cubes to create croutons.
9. **Serve:** Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and top with the grilled cheese croutons. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if desired).
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Roasted Vegetables:** Roasting vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers before adding them to the soup will enhance the flavor. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses for the grilled cheese croutons, such as mozzarella, Gruyere, or pepper jack.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use vegetable broth and omit the heavy cream or substitute with coconut cream for a vegan version. Use vegan cheese for the croutons.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for extra heat.
## Recipe 2: Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
This one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the vegetables are perfectly roasted and tender, all thanks to Good & Gather’s fresh ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 – 2 lbs Good & Gather Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (or Chicken Breast, cut into 1-inch pieces)
* 1 lb Good & Gather Baby Potatoes, halved or quartered (depending on size)
* 1 lb Good & Gather Broccoli Florets
* 1 Good & Gather Red Onion, cut into wedges
* 2 tbsp Good & Gather Olive Oil
* 2 tbsp Good & Gather Lemon Juice, fresh
* 1 tbsp Good & Gather Dried Italian Herb Blend
* 1 tsp Good & Gather Garlic Powder
* ½ tsp Good & Gather Paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 Good & Gather Lemon, sliced (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare Vegetables:** In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes, broccoli florets, and red onion wedges with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. **Prepare Chicken:** In a separate bowl, toss the chicken thighs (or chicken breast pieces) with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, Italian herb blend, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
4. **Arrange on Sheet Pan:** Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Arrange the chicken pieces evenly among the vegetables.
5. **Roast:** Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with fresh lemon slices and serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Choose Your Vegetables:** Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, or zucchini. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Add Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Fresh herbs will add even more flavor.
* **Marinate the Chicken:** For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) before roasting.
* **Add a Glaze:** Brush the chicken and vegetables with a glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and ginger during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
## Recipe 3: Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Crema
These flavorful and plant-based burgers are packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying meal. The creamy avocado crema adds a delicious and refreshing touch.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tbsp Good & Gather Olive Oil
* ½ Good & Gather Yellow Onion, chopped
* 1 clove Good & Gather Garlic, minced
* 1 (15 oz) can Good & Gather Black Beans, rinsed and drained
* ½ cup Good & Gather Cooked Quinoa (or brown rice)
* ¼ cup Good & Gather Corn Kernels (canned or frozen)
* ¼ cup Good & Gather Chopped Cilantro
* 1 tbsp Good & Gather Chili Powder
* 1 tsp Good & Gather Cumin
* ½ tsp Good & Gather Smoked Paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* ½ cup Good & Gather Bread Crumbs (or rolled oats)
* 4 Good & Gather Burger Buns
* Toppings of your choice: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, etc.
**For the Avocado Crema:**
* 1 Good & Gather Avocado, ripe
* ¼ cup Good & Gather Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt)
* 2 tbsp Good & Gather Lime Juice, fresh
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Mash Beans:** In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, but still slightly chunky.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the sautéed onion and garlic, quinoa (or brown rice), corn kernels, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed black beans. Stir to combine.
4. **Add Bread Crumbs:** Add the bread crumbs (or rolled oats) and mix well. The mixture should be firm enough to form patties. If it’s too wet, add more bread crumbs.
5. **Form Patties:** Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties.
6. **Cook Burgers:** Heat a lightly oiled skillet or grill over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until heated through and slightly browned.
7. **Prepare Avocado Crema:** While the burgers are cooking, prepare the avocado crema. In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
8. **Assemble Burgers:** Toast the burger buns if desired. Spread avocado crema on the top and bottom buns. Place the black bean patty on the bottom bun and top with your favorite toppings.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables:** Add grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the burger mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the burger mixture or avocado crema for extra heat.
* **Use Different Beans:** Experiment with different beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free bread crumbs and gluten-free burger buns.
* **Bake the Burgers:** Instead of cooking the burgers in a skillet or on the grill, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
## Recipe 4: Creamy Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach
This quick and easy pasta dish is bursting with fresh flavors. The creamy pesto sauce coats the pasta perfectly, and the cherry tomatoes and spinach add a vibrant touch.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Good & Gather Pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
* 2 tbsp Good & Gather Olive Oil
* 1 pint Good & Gather Cherry Tomatoes, halved
* 2 cloves Good & Gather Garlic, minced
* 5 oz Good & Gather Baby Spinach
* ½ cup Good & Gather Pesto (jarred or homemade)
* ½ cup Good & Gather Heavy Cream (or half-and-half)
* ¼ cup Good & Gather Parmesan Cheese, grated
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Sauté Tomatoes and Garlic:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Wilt Spinach:** Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Add Pesto and Cream:** Stir in the pesto and heavy cream (or half-and-half). Heat through gently. Do not boil.
5. **Combine with Pasta:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
6. **Add Parmesan Cheese:** Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese (if desired).
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta for a heartier meal.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Substitute other vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or mushrooms.
* **Add Pine Nuts:** Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet and sprinkle them over the pasta for added flavor and texture.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use vegan pesto and omit the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese or substitute with plant-based alternatives.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor.
## Recipe 5: Overnight Oats with Berries and Chia Seeds
This healthy and convenient breakfast is perfect for busy mornings. Simply combine the ingredients in a jar or container the night before, and wake up to a delicious and nutritious meal.
**Ingredients:**
* ½ cup Good & Gather Rolled Oats
* 1 cup Good & Gather Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1 tbsp Good & Gather Chia Seeds
* 1 tbsp Good & Gather Maple Syrup (or honey)
* ½ tsp Good & Gather Vanilla Extract
* ½ cup Good & Gather Mixed Berries (fresh or frozen)
* Optional toppings: nuts, seeds, granola, coconut flakes
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a jar or container with a lid, combine the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract.
2. **Stir Well:** Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. **Add Berries:** Add the mixed berries to the jar or container.
4. **Refrigerate:** Cover the jar or container and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
5. **Enjoy:** In the morning, stir the overnight oats and add any desired toppings, such as nuts, seeds, granola, or coconut flakes. Enjoy cold.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Use Different Fruits:** Experiment with different fruits, such as bananas, peaches, or apples.
* **Add Nut Butter:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for extra protein and flavor.
* **Add Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm and comforting flavor.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use non-dairy milk and maple syrup.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of maple syrup (or honey) to your liking.
## Stocking Your Good & Gather Pantry: Essential Items
To make the most of these recipes, here’s a list of essential Good & Gather items to keep stocked in your pantry:
* **Oils & Vinegars:** Olive oil, vegetable oil, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar
* **Grains & Pasta:** Pasta (various shapes), quinoa, brown rice, rolled oats
* **Canned Goods:** Crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, corn kernels, chickpeas
* **Spices & Herbs:** Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried basil, dried oregano, Italian herb blend
* **Dairy & Refrigerated:** Milk, heavy cream (or half-and-half), sour cream (or Greek yogurt), cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, mozzarella), eggs
* **Produce:** Onions, garlic, potatoes, broccoli, spinach, cherry tomatoes, avocados, lemons, limes, various fruits and vegetables depending on your preferences
* **Other Essentials:** Bread crumbs, nuts, seeds, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, pesto (jarred or homemade), chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
## Conclusion: Good & Gather – Your Secret Weapon for Delicious Meals
With its commitment to quality, affordability, and variety, Good & Gather is the perfect brand for creating delicious and budget-friendly meals. From creamy tomato soup to sheet pan dinners and overnight oats, these recipes showcase the versatility of Good & Gather products and provide inspiration for your next Target grocery run. So, ditch the expensive specialty stores and discover the culinary treasures hidden within Target’s aisles. Happy cooking!