Start the new year with this Fresh & Simple Tomato Detox Cooler, a zesty and hydrating drink that’s as delicious as it is healthy. Bursting with the natural sweetness of Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes, this cooler combines the fresh, garden-inspired flavors of cucumber, celery, and ginger. Perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up or a light and flavorful detox beverage.
Why Choose Sinfully Sweet Campari® Tomatoes?
Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes are the heart of this recipe, offering an unparalleled balance of sweetness and acidity. Known for their vibrant red hue, juicy texture, and irresistible flavor, these premium tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and lycopene, making them a perfect base for this healthful cooler.
½ cup celery, chopped (optional for added nutrients and flavor)
1 small piece of fresh ginger (about ½ inch), peeled and grated
Juice of ½ lemon (or more to taste)
A pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance flavors)
A few ice cubes (optional, for immediate chilling)
Optional garnishes: fresh basil leaves or a celery stalk
Instructions
Prepare the produce Wash and chop the Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes, cucumber, celery, and ginger.
Blend the ingredients Place all the chopped ingredients into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
Adjust the flavor
If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water or a few ice cubes to thin it out.
Taste and add a pinch of sea salt if desired.
For a brighter, tangier profile, squeeze in more lemon juice.
Strain (optional) For a smoother drink, strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve. Skip this step if you prefer a pulpy, fiber-rich juice.
Serve and garnish Pour the cooler into glasses. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a celery stalk for added flair. Serve immediately for the best taste and nutritional benefits.
Tips for Customizing Your Detox Cooler
Add a kick: A dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce brings a spicy twist.
Herbal notes: Blend in basil or cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
Boost nutrients: Toss in half an avocado or a handful of spinach for creaminess and extra vitamins.
A Perfect Pairing for a Healthy Lifestyle
Enjoy this Fresh & Simple Tomato Detox Cooler with your favorite light snacks or as a standalone refreshment. For more inspiration, explore additional recipes featuring Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes. Cheers to your health!
Celebrate the season with Village Farms tomatoes, paired perfectly with cheese and wine to delight your guests and elevate your holiday spread. With cooking, roasting, or skewering options for versatility, this guide will inspire your festive meals with thoughtful, flavorful pairings.
The Symbolism of the 12 Days Through Food
Each day of the 12 Days of Christmas can reflect a different facet of the season’s joy and meaning, symbolized by the vibrant pairings of tomatoes, cheese, and wine. Like the gifts in the carol, these foods remind us of life’s abundance and beauty:
Bright tomatoes symbolize renewal, vitality, and the warmth of family gatherings.
Artisan cheeses represent richness and the nurturing bonds of community.
Fine wines capture the festive spirit and the joy of sharing in life’s blessings.
Why We Feast?
Feasting before and during the 12 Days of Christmas brings together two key aspects of this time of year:
Anticipation and Gratitude: Leading up to December 25, we celebrate the anticipation of joy—giving thanks for what we have while preparing for the renewal symbolized by Christmas and the solstice.
Reflection and Sharing: The 12 Days following Christmas are a time to reflect on the meaning of love, light, and hope in our lives. Food plays a central role as we gather with loved ones, sharing in the abundance of the season.
A Celebration of Faith and Connection
By pairing each of the 12 Days of Christmas with the vibrant flavors of Village Farms tomatoes, complemented by fine wines and cheeses, we create a feast that honors both ancient traditions and the joy of modern gatherings. Whether you celebrate the season’s religious significance, its cultural traditions, or simply the warmth of family and friends, these thoughtful pairings symbolize community, gratitude, and the renewal of hope.
Let the season inspire you to savor its blessings, share its abundance, and embrace its timeless spirit of love and joy.
Cheese: Burrata Roasting these mini San Marzano-style tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the creamy, buttery texture of burrata. Finish with olive oil and cracked pepper.
Wine: Chianti Classico This bright red wine’s acidity and cherry notes perfectly match the tomato’s rich, sweet flavor.
– On the Second Day of Christmas –
Sinfully Sweet Campari® (Skewered)
Cheese: Fresh Mozzarella Skewer Campari tomatoes with mozzarella balls and fresh basil for a holiday twist on Caprese salad. Add a balsamic drizzle for extra flair.
Wine: Sauvignon Blanc The crisp citrus and herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc complement the bright acidity and sweetness of these tomatoes.
– On the Third Day of Christmas –
Sensational Sara®
Cheese: Aged Manchego These tomatoes are juicy, firm, and slightly tangy, pairing wonderfully with Manchego’s nutty, slightly salty flavor.
Wine: Rioja A Spanish red with earthy, berry notes enhances the tomato’s balance of sweetness and acidity, echoing the Manchego pairing.
– On the Fourth Day of Christmas –
Good Day Sunshine®
Cheese: Ricotta These golden-hued tomatoes are mild, sweet, and low in acidity. Pair with whipped ricotta and honey for a dessert-style dish or use as a base for a festive tart.
Wine: Viognier A floral, medium-bodied white wine complements the sweetness and delicate flavor of these tomatoes.
– On the Fifth Day of Christmas –
Cabernet Estate Reserve® (Roasted)
Cheese: Gruyère Roasting these savory, robust tomatoes deepens their umami profile. Pair with Gruyère for its nutty, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the tomato’s richness.
Wine: Malbec A bold red wine with dark fruit and chocolate notes stands up to the tomato’s intensity.
– On the Sixth Day of Christmas –
Cherry No. 9 Fall in Love Again® (Skewered)
Cheese: Brie Skewer these sweet cherry tomatoes with Brie and drizzle with honey for a luxurious appetizer. Add fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Wine: Prosecco This sparkling wine’s crisp bubbles and slight sweetness highlight the vibrant flavor of these tomatoes.
– On the Seventh Day of Christmas –
Juicy Beefsteak (Sliced)
Cheese: Aged Cheddar Sliced Beefsteak tomatoes are ideal for layering with sharp aged cheddar on crusty bread or in sandwiches. Add a dash of mustard for a bold holiday snack.
Wine: Zinfandel This rich, fruity red wine enhances the meaty texture and natural sweetness of the tomato.
Cheese: Goat Cheese Hollow out these dense, tangy tomatoes and stuff them with herbed goat cheese. Bake until golden for a warm and comforting holiday dish.
Wine: Pinot Noir A light-bodied red with earthy, berry notes complements the tomato’s tangy flavor and creamy filling.
– On the Ninth Day of Christmas –
Exquisite Heirlooms (Raw or Roasted)
Cheese: Blue Cheese Heirlooms are beautifully complex, with a mix of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors. Pair with the bold, tangy taste of blue cheese for a dynamic pairing. Serve fresh or roasted with a drizzle of honey.
Wine: Rosé of Syrah A rosé with vibrant berry and floral notes mirrors the tomato’s complex flavor and adds a festive touch.
– On the Tenth Day of Christmas –
Delectable TOV (Sliced or Grilled)
Cheese: Halloumi Grilled TOV (tomatoes on the vine) paired with Halloumi offers a smoky, salty, and sweet combination. Add a sprinkle of oregano for Mediterranean flair.
Wine: Grenache A medium-bodied red wine with soft tannins and berry notes balances the tomato’s sweet smokiness.
– On the Eleventh Day of Christmas –
Lip Smackn’ Grape®
Cheese: CreamCheese Sweet grape tomatoes shine when paired with the smooth texture and mild flavor of cream cheese. Serve on crostini with fresh dill for a festive snack.
Wine: Moscato d’Asti The light sweetness and sparkle of Moscato d’Asti echo the tomato’s natural sugars for a delightful pairing.
– On the Twelfth Day of Christmas –
Maverick Mix® (Roasted with Herbs)
Cheese: Parmigiano-Reggiano Roast these firm tomatoes with rosemary and thyme to concentrate their flavor. Shave Parmigiano-Reggiano over the top for a nutty, salty finish.
Wine: Barolo This full-bodied Italian red wine matches the tomato’s robust, roasted flavor for an elegant pairing.
Tips for Hosting a Holiday Pairing Party
Festive Presentation: Arrange tomatoes, cheese, and wine on boards with seasonal touches like cranberries, pine sprigs, and candles.
Interactive Pairings: Encourage guests to create their favorite combinations using the prepared options.
Cooking Variety: Incorporate raw, roasted, skewered, and stuffed tomato options to keep the menu exciting.
With this guide, you’ll transform your holiday celebrations into a flavorful and elegant experience. Village Farms tomatoes, paired with artisanal cheeses and festive wines, bring a touch of gourmet to your Christmas table.
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate guacamole recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This is more than just an appetizer—it’s a must-have for any gathering, from festive Cinco de Mayo celebration to casual weekend get-togethers. It’s fresh, flavorful, and so simple to whip up.
I love using Village Farms Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes in this recipe. Fun fact: Tomatoes add not only a burst of color but also provide a great dose of vitamin C and antioxidants. Paired with ripe avocados, packed with heart-healthy fats and fiber, this guacamole is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Feel free to make this recipe your own. The jalapeños add a nice kick, but you can adjust the spice to suit everyone’s taste. The tomatoes, lime, and cilantro bring a fresh balance that’s sure to impress.
Save this easy recipe to serve with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or as a topping for tacos and burrito bowls at your next gathering!
Serves: This guacamole recipe makes about 2 to 2.5 cups, which typically serves 4 to 6 people as an appetizer or dip. If you’re serving a larger group or using it as a topping for dishes, consider doubling the recipe.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and delicious food. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce young children to cooking, helping them learn about healthy eating while having fun. Getting kids involved in meal preparation not only makes them feel included but also sets the foundation for healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, and what better way to involve the little ones than by letting them help prepare the meal? Not only does this teach them valuable kitchen skills, but it also instills a sense of responsibility and creativity in cooking. Plus, making healthy food choices is crucial for young children, as it supports their growth, development, and energy levels. When kids have fun in the kitchen, they’re more likely to enjoy and appreciate the healthy foods they help create.
Involving kids in cooking helps them see where their food comes from and understand the importance of healthy choices. Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers are packed with essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support growth, immunity, and brain development. When kids participate in cooking, they’re more likely to try new foods, eat healthier, and enjoy the meal they helped prepare. Here are three simple recipes that kids will love to help with, each featuring one of the three vegetables: tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers. Thanksgiving dishes that are both healthy and fun for kids to make for the win!
Stuffed Bell Pepper Boats
These colorful bell pepper boats are easy to make, nutritious, and perfect for little hands! They’re filled with a delicious mix of veggies, cheese, and light seasoning – a fun appetizer or side dish for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients:
2 Village Farms’ Sweet Bells® bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
Help kids wash the bell peppers and tomatoes. Then, let them scoop out the seeds from the bell peppers.
In a bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, cucumber, cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spoon the mixture into the bell pepper halves, filling each one.
Place the stuffed bell peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Let the kids garnish each boat with a sprinkle of basil or parsley!
Cucumber and Tomato “Gobble” Skewers
These fun, turkey-inspired veggie skewers are perfect as a snack or appetizer. Kids can get creative with building their turkey skewers and learning about colors, textures, and shapes along the way!
Set up an assembly line of cucumber rounds, tomatoes, and bell pepper squares.
Show the kids how to create “turkey feathers” by threading a tomato, cucumber slice, and piece of bell pepper onto a toothpick or skewer.
Arrange the skewers in a fan shape to resemble turkey feathers on a plate.
Place a small bowl of hummus or ranch in the center as a “turkey body” for dipping.
Let kids assemble their own “gobble” skewers and dip away!
Tomato and Mozzarella Thanksgiving Bites
These delicious, bite-sized treats are as tasty as they are festive. Made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and a hint of basil, they’re an easy-to-make snack that brings bright colors to your Thanksgiving table.
12 mini mozzarella balls (or cubes of mozzarella cheese)
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Toothpicks
Instructions:
Help kids wash the tomatoes.
Let them place one tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf on each toothpick.
Arrange the bites on a platter and, if desired, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze.
Enjoy these little bites as a snack or appetizer!
Why Healthy Eating Matters for Young Children
Introducing kids to fresh, healthy ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers supports their physical growth, boosts their immune system, and helps them develop lifelong healthy eating habits. These vegetables are loaded with vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals that support brain development and keep their energy up.
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to teach kids the value of sharing, helping, and making healthy choices – all in a way that’s both educational and fun. With these recipes, your children will feel proud of their contributions to the meal, while learning the joy of healthy eating.
Why Healthy Eating is Important for Kids
Eating healthy is crucial for children as it provides the necessary nutrients for their growing bodies. A balanced diet helps to enhance their cognitive function, maintain energy levels, and support a robust immune system. Introducing children to a variety of vegetables at a young age encourages healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.
Making Cooking Fun
Involving kids in meal preparation can make the experience enjoyable and educational. Let them wash vegetables, mix ingredients, and even choose how to present the food. This hands-on approach not only teaches them about healthy eating but also fosters a love for cooking that can lead to lifelong culinary skills.
Encourage your children to take part in Thanksgiving preparations this year, and you might just create some delicious family memories along with healthy dishes!
After a long day at school, kids often come home hungry and in need of a tasty, nutritious snack. Incorporating fresh, greenhouse-grown produce can turn simple snacks into delicious and healthy treats. Most Kids have full schedules and need quick nutritional fuel for after school activities. Village Farms’ tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are perfect for this task. Their crisp, sweet flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Here are four easy-to-make recipes that kids will love, and you’ll appreciate their simplicity and nutritional value. And all have an average prep time of 15 minutes or less!
Satisfying Tomato and Cucumber Sandwich – serving size 1
Nothing says Summer like a Fresh tomato and cucumber sandwich. But just because summer is coming to an end does not mean you can’t enjoy the Garden Fresh Flavor® all year long. With Village Farms greenhouse grown varieties you have summer on a plate all year long. This easy to prepare sandwich is a great snack packed with nutrients such as Vitamin A & C, plus Calcium, Iron, Potassium, and Protein.
Ingredients:
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Luscious Seedless® Long English cucumber
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown tomato try Delectable TOV®, Juicy Beefsteak®, Sensational Sara®, Exquisite Heirloom® or Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes. Each of these varieties are excellent slicers for sandwiches.
2 slices whole grain bread
2 tablespoons hummus
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Veggies: Wash the cucumber and tomato. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds (about 8 slices) and the whole tomato into slightly thicker slices.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a thin layer of hummus on each slice of bread. If using, sprinkle fresh dill over the hummus.
Layer the Veggies: Place cucumber slices on one of the bread slices and tomato slices on the other one. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve: Top each slices veggie sides down to make one sandwich. Cut into quarters or fun shapes with cookie cutters for added appeal.
Healthy Stuffed Bell Pepper – serving size 2
This Healthy Stuffed Bell Pepper recipe is perfect for quick and nutritious after-school snacking for kids. The colorful Village Farms® Sweet Bell® peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and fiber. Stuffing them with protein-rich cottage cheese provides a satisfying and healthy bite, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley and optional grated cheese adds a burst of flavor that kids will love. Easy to prepare and ready to chill in the refrigerator, this snack offers a fun, delicious, and wholesome option that fits seamlessly into busy afternoons.
Ingredients:
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Sweet Bell® peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
1 cup Cottage Cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon grated cheese cheddar or parmesan (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pepper: Wash the Sweet Bell pepper and slice them in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes.
Stuff the Pepper: Spoon cottage into each pepper half. For added flavor, sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated cheese if desired.
Chill and Serve: Arrange the stuffed pepper half on a platter and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Fun Tomato and Cucumber Skewers – serving size 1
These Mini Veggie Skewers are the ultimate after-school snack, combining fun and nutrition in every bite. Picture crisp Village Farms® Scrumptious Mini® cucumbers and burstingly, (yes, burstingly!), sweet cherry tomatoes, all threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a zesty olive oil-balsamic glaze. The addition of creamy mozzarella or burrata cheese balls takes these skewers from simple to sensational. They’re not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight, perfect for keeping kids engaged and excited about healthy eating. Whether served cold or grilled for a warm option, these skewers make snacking both easy and irresistible.
Ingredients:
3 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Scrumptious Mini® cucumbers
1 cup (about 10 tomatoes) Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Heavenly Villagio Marzano®, Cherry no. 9® or Lip Smackn’ Grape® tomatoes
1/4 cup mozzarella or burrata cheese balls
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
2 Wooden skewers (soaked in water to prevent burning)
Instructions:
Prepare the Veggies: Wash the cucumber and tomatoes. Slice the cucumber into bite-sized rounds.
Assemble the Skewers: Thread cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between the two.
Dress the Skewers: In a small bowl, mix olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Brush or drizzle the mixture over the skewers. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese just before serving. These skewers can be served as is or lightly grilled for a warm option.
Zesty Pepper and Tomato Salsa with Tortilla Chips – serving size 1
This vibrant and zesty Fresh Veggie Salsa is an exciting after-school snack that kids will love. Featuring Village Farms® Sweet Bell® peppers and juicy Sensational Sara® or Sinfully Sweet Campari® tomatoes, this salsa bursts with flavor and freshness. The crisp bell pepper and tangy red onion add crunch, while a splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro bring it all together with a delightful kick. Served with tortilla chips for dipping, this salsa not only satisfies snack cravings but also introduces kids to a tasty way to enjoy their veggies. It’s a fun, colorful, and healthy option that makes after-school snacking both enjoyable and nutritious.
Ingredients:
1 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown Sweet Bell® bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange)
3 or 4 Village Farms® greenhouse-grown tomato Sensational Sara®(use 3) or Sinfully Sweet Campari® (use 4) tomatoes
1/2 red onion
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips for dipping
Instructions:
Prepare the Veggies: Wash and dice the bell pepper and tomato. Peel and finely chop the red onion.
Mix the Salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, tomato, and red onion. Add lime juice and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Serve the salsa with tortilla chips on the side. This refreshing salsa is perfect for dipping and can also be used as a topping for other dishes.
Creative and Healthy Eating Possibilities Abound!
With Village Farms’ greenhouse-grown tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, these after-school snacks are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. These recipes are designed to be simple enough for kids to help prepare, making snack time both fun and nutritious. Enjoy these fresh and easy snacks that will keep your kids satisfied and happy after a busy day!
