Entries by Marisol Minich

Shake, Stir, and Celebrate: Fresh City Kitchen’s Holiday Cocktail Guide

December 1, 2025 /0 Comments/in /by

Celebrate the season with Fresh City's signature holiday cocktails and bar catering. From Spiced Cranberry Mules to Pear Collins, it's the toast your office needs!

Boston Is Buzzing: Holiday Gatherings Done Right

December in Boston is magic. Windows glow along Boylston, office towers sparkle with bows, lights glitter along the harbor, and corporate teams slip out of meetings and into cocktail hours where the year’s big wins (and big laughs) are finally shared.

From cozy end-of-year receptions in Cambridge to sleek high-rise celebrations overlooking downtown, Fresh City Kitchen’s Holiday Bar & Event Catering helps companies toast the season with style. Local New England flavors, premium ingredients, and seasonal charm are infused right into your event quicker than you can say shaken or stirred!

Nothing proclaims “holiday celebration” like a well-crafted cocktail — especially one made with thoughtfully crafted syrups, mixers, and juices made by hand with you in mind.

Signature Sips That Shine

Holiday cocktails should feel festive, surprising, and a little indulgent. This year, our bar team has a few favorites that pair perfectly with twinkling lights and end-of-year cheers.

Spiced Cranberry Mule

Vodka · Spiced Cranberry Syrup · Fresh Lime Juice · Ginger Beer
A Boston favorite and our most requested holiday cocktail. The secret? Our housemade Spiced-Cranberry Syrup, simmered with warm spices to balance tart berries with a cozy depth. It’s bright, refreshing, and winter-forward — the kind of drink that keeps trays returning empty at company holiday events.

Harvest Fix

Bourbon · Amaro Montenegro · Vermont Maple Syrup · Lemon
Think of this as a flannel shirt in signature cocktail form. Smooth, warming bourbon meets citrus and maple for a drink that’s both comforting and elevated. At corporate receptions, it’s the go-to for guests who appreciate something classic with a seasonal twist.

Pear Collins

Vodka · Pear Liqueur · Lemon · Cinnamon · Allspice
Elegant, light, and aromatic — the Pear Collins adds sophistication to any holiday bar service. It’s a beautiful option for early-evening receptions or upscale celebrations where you want something festive but not heavy.

Behind the scenes, our mixologists prep key ingredients and craft syrups in advance to keep service fast, consistent, and polished — even for 200+ guests. Your drinks stay balanced, the line stays short, and your guests stay happy!

Holiday Hosting Tips from the Pros

A great bar setup doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are a few simple ways to elevate your holiday party:

1. Choose a Signature Cocktail (or two)

Offering one or two featured cocktails creates a memorable theme and keeps event lines moving along swiftly, so your team isn’t stuck in the queue and can enjoy your holiday event!

2. Pair Drinks with Small Bites or Dessert Stations

A Harvest Fix next to maple-inspired desserts? Perfect. A Spiced Cranberry Mule alongside savory hors d’oeuvres? Even better.

3. Include a Thoughtful Mocktail Option

Inclusive celebrations are better celebrations. We can turn any signature sip into a zero-proof version so everyone can clink glasses together. This is a must in 2025!

Behind the Bar with Fresh City Kitchen

When Fresh City Kitchen handles your holiday bar catering, you get more than great drinks — you get the confidence of a fully licensed, fully insured service.

Our bar packages include:

  • Professional, licensed bartenders
  • Premium drinkware and glassware options
  • Curated setups for beer & wine, cocktails, or full open bars
  • Signature cocktail add-ons, custom menus, and crafted syrups

Whether your event is a large company party or a small gathering of executives, every guest will feel taken care of with warm, engaging hospitality.

Make It at Home: The Spiced Cranberry Mule

Want to bring a little FCK holiday magic into your own kitchen? Here’s a quick DIY version of our standout cocktail:

  1. Muddle 3 lime wedges into your cocktail shaker.
  2. Mix in 2 oz vodka, 1 oz Spiced Cranberry Syrup, .75 oz Cranberry Juice
  3. Add ice and shake lightly.
  4. Strain into your cocktail glass or copper mug.
  5. Top with ginger beer and garnish with fresh cranberries or a lime wheel.

It’s simple, festive, and perfect for at-home gatherings or office potlucks.

✨ Make the Spiced Cranberry Syrup at Home (Simplified Version)

Want to make the syrup that powers our signature Mule? Here’s an easy at-home version:

Ingredients

  • 1 quart Knudsen 100% Cranberry Juice (this brand truly makes a difference!)
  • 1 quart white granulated sugar or organic cane sugar
  • 1 tbsp crushed cloves
  • 1 tbsp crushed allspice
  • 2–3 crushed cinnamon sticks
  • A handful of sliced fresh ginger

Directions

  1. Heat cranberry juice in a saucepan until hot but not boiling.
  2. Add the cloves, allspice, cinnamon, and ginger. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
  3. Turn off the heat and stir in the sugar until fully dissolved.
  4. Let the mixture steep for 15–20 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  5. Finely strain out the spices and ginger, then refrigerate.

Stir it into cocktails, mocktails, cider, or sparkling water for an instant holiday boost.

Ready to Toast the Season?

Whether you’re planning an intimate team celebration or a 300-person holiday event, Fresh City’s bar catering services are available so you may raise a glass with your team — responsibly, beautifully, and deliciously.

👉 Explore Fresh City’s event catering services
👉 Contact our events team to book your holiday bar

Cheers to the season, and cheers to all of our clients for a wonderful 2025!

From Hive to Boston Catering Kitchen: FCK’s Beekeeping Journey 🐝

September 22, 2025 in /by

Fresh City Owner, Pete Minich takes up beekeeping to inspire future ingredient transparency.

Learn how locally sourced honey inspires our Boston catering menus and why bees matter to your next event.

As a Boston-based catering company, we know food inside and out. We’re masters of cuisines from around the world, building diverse catering menus that range from street-food-inspired flatbreads to polished corporate cocktail receptions. We test new recipes in the kitchen, refine our cooking techniques, and focus on the details — from how we poach and simmer to how we chop and plate.

But we’ve realized there’s one particular area where our clients want more: where does our food actually come from?

So this month, we’re shaking things up on the blog with a closer look at one of our own — Pete Minich, our owner and CEO, who’s been exploring a whole new side of food production: the ancient art of beekeeping.

From Caterer to Beekeeper 🐝

Pete started beekeeping this past year after enrolling in a course with the Plymouth County Beekeeping Association. What began as an interest in helping local pollinators quickly grew into a true passion.

Over the past six months, Pete has learned the ins and outs of managing hives, caring for bees, and even preparing for his very first honey harvest. Here’s a quick look at the life of a hive in New England:

 Spring/Summer: A new hive arrives with about 10,000 worker bees and a queen. The queen is carefully introduced in a sugar-plug cage over five days, so the hive can adapt to her scent. By summer’s end, the hive grows to 60,000–80,000 bees — all focused on protecting the hive, raising newborns, and producing honey.

Fall: The queen slows her egg-laying, and the hive reduces to around 10,000 bees to survive the winter. If there’s extra honey beyond the 50 lbs needed for the hive’s food supply, it’s time for harvest.

Winter: The hive rests, buzzing quietly until spring kicks off another cycle!

Q&A with Pete 🐝

We asked Pete a few questions about his new beekeeping journey:

Will you harvest honey this year?

“I think I might be able to harvest a small amount. A hive needs about 50 lbs of honey to survive the winter, and I’m over that number. I’ll make the call in the next couple of weeks.”

What will you do with the honey?

“If we harvest, we’ll share a little with VIPs, friends, and family. But the big goal is to use it right here at Fresh City Kitchen. We go through over 100 lbs of honey a year across our breakfast, lunch, and happy hour catering menus. It would be incredible to say we’re cooking with honey from our very own bees in Scituate.”

What have you learned so far?

“Bees are fascinating. They’re incredibly organized, and that structure helps them adapt to challenges. I’ve also learned how tough it is for bees — between varroa mites, which weaken hives, and pesticides that threaten their survival. On a lighter note, I’ve discovered that different hives have their own personalities. One of mine is mellow (I call it The Grateful Dead), the other is much more fiery (The Clash). So far, The Dead hasn’t stung me… I can’t say the same about The Clash!”

Fun facts to share with Fresh City Clients?

  • Worker and drone bees live 2–3 months in summer, but a queen can live up to 5 years.

  • A queen lays up to 2,500 eggs a day.

  • It takes 21 days for an egg to hatch.

  • Bees communicate about food sources by doing a dance.

  • Honeybees can even recognize human faces!

From Hive to Our Corporate Catering Kitchen 🍯

At Fresh City Kitchen, honey is more than a sweetener — it’s a signature ingredient that shows up across our menus. Some of our fan-favorite dishes featuring honey include:

Hot Honey Soppressata Flatbreads

Fall Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Marinated Chicken Tips

Asian Slaw served with our Asian Salads & Grain Bowls

Soon, you may even see “Scituate-raised honey” in our ingredient lists. We can’t wait to share it with you.

Why Bees Matter 🌿

Bees don’t just make honey — they pollinate plants that make our food system thrive. Supporting bees means supporting local agriculture, healthier ecosystems, and fresher ingredients in the food we serve every day.

At Fresh City Kitchen, we’re proud to keep learning about food at every stage — from seed and pollinator to plate. And thanks to Pete’s new passion project, we may soon be bringing a little extra “buzz” to your next catered event.

Get In On The Catering Buzz!

Whether it’s hot honey-glazed flatbreads, seasonal salads, or chef-crafted buffets, Fresh City Kitchen delivers office-friendly catering inspired by New England’s seasons.

 👉  Explore our menus
👉  Contact us to start planning your next office meeting or event

FCK’s Favorite Summer Bites Around Boston & Cambridge

July 24, 2025 in /by

A Citywide Food Crawl — Plus Office-Friendly Versions You’ll Love

We’re finally in the swing of summer! The days are longer, the ocean’s warm, and everything’s in full bloom. And on a sunny summer day, what could be better than not cooking?

In the spirit of savoring every moment, our team at Fresh City Kitchen is sharing some of our favorite seasonal bites from around Boston and Cambridge — the cult-following dishes we wait all year for. Whether you’re looking to spend the day exploring or just want to bring those flavors into the office, we’ve got you covered with craveable local eats and office-friendly versions on our summer catering menu.

☀️ Breakfast Must-Try: Sunny Girl in the North End

This gem in the North End serves up crave-worthy breakfast sandwiches on scratch-made English muffins (yes, every morning). Our pick? The Truffle Shuffle: over-easy egg, black truffle pecorino, burrata, tomato conserva, basil gremolata, and pancetta — all stacked on warm focaccia. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect before a waterfront stroll.

👉 Inspired? Our own catering team reimagines breakfast sandwiches & burritos with our toppings package that amps up breakfast delivery to the office — chipotle aioli, lime-crema, sautéed mushrooms-onions-peppers, and more. Just one of many ways to enhance breakfast catering at work. 

🥪 Lunch Sub Stars: Mortadella Head in Somerville

Nothing screams summer like a killer sub — one you can wrap up, toss in a cooler, and eat on the beach. Mortadella Head brings over-the-top Italian-American energy to every sandwich. Two of our favorites:

  • Chop Caesar (TikTok famous): crispy chicken cutlets, prosciutto, caesar dressing, romaine, and romano on garlic bread — finished with garlic butter.
  • Pig & Fig: prosciutto, fig jam, fresh mozzarella, arugula, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. Sweet, salty, and sophisticated.

👉 FCK Office Version: Our Sandwich & Wrap Packages include fun takes on classics like the Balsamic Fig Roast Beef & Cheddar (garlic-roast beef, cheddar, fig aioli) and Napa Valley Turkey Sandwich (smoked turkey, cheddar, bacon, avocado, lemon-chive aioli).

🔥 BBQ Cravings: Blue Ribbon Barbecue (Fenway & Time Out Market)

IRL Bite: The legendary Burnt Ends Sandwich — oak‑hickory brisket smoked 14 hours then sauced until tender.

👉 Want to bring those flavors to your office? Try our Smoked Brisket Buffet, featuring outrageously flavorful FCK smoked brisket, velvety mac & cheese, cornbread, and creamy slaw that channels some serious BBQ energy.

🦞 Seafood by the Sea: James Hook Lobster Co.

This 100-year-old family-owned spot is the go-to for giant, buttery lobster rolls with a view. Located right on the water with outdoor seating, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re on vacation — even if it’s just lunch break.

👉 We bring that same vibe to your next corporate summer outing with delivered Maine-style lobster rolls, on-site clam bakes, and staffed raw bar stations your office crew will love.

🍷 Group Hang: Barcelona Wine Bar (Cambridge & South End)

Ideal for larger groups or after-work hangs, Barcelona Wine Bar delivers Spanish tapas with flair. Their shareable small plates and cozy patios are made for summer nights.

Don’t miss the Patatas Bravas — crisp roasted potatoes with garlic aioli and smoky salsa brava. Pair with a pitcher of sangria and you’re in for a great evening.

👉 Hosting happy hour in the office? Our happy hour menus includes everything from potstickers, to skewers, and artisanal charcuterie boards, not to mention crowd-pleasing cocktails (yes, including sangria).

🍦 Sweet Endings: Taiyaki NYC & Caffè Vittoria

Taiyaki NYC (Seaport)

Bostonians line up all summer long for these fish-shaped waffle cones. Filled with either red bean paste or custard and topped with soft serve in dreamy flavors like matcha, mango, and hojicha. Try the “Beach, Please” for a tropical vibe (think coconut, strawberry-mango swirl, and a little cocktail umbrella).

Caffè Vittoria (North End)

This iconic Italian café brings Europe Summer energy straight to Hanover Street. End your night with their lobster tail pastry — a flaky, buttery shell filled with sweet ricotta and mascarpone — and sip a North End Express (their take on an espresso martini) under vintage decor.

👉 No time to wait in line in the North End? We bring the indulgence to your catered event with our gourmet dessert platters, ice cream sundae bars, and chef-inspired build-your-own strawberry shortcake.

Bonus: Fresh City-Inspired Menu Highlights

Here are just a few of the seasonal favorites available for your next office lunch or team celebration:

  • Breakfast Burritos & Sandwiches – don’t forget the toppings package
  • Sliders & Signature Sandwiches – must try – our chicken Caesar wrap
  • Catered Buffets – featuring mouth-watering steak tips, sizzling teriyaki, and smoky summer BBQ
  • Happy Hour Platters – charcuterie, skewers, vegan potstickers, mezze
  • Signature Cocktails – bartenders serving up specialty summer drinks with full bar service

🏢 Bring Summer Into the Office with Fresh City Kitchen

Boston’s summer food scene is something special, but you don’t need to leave your building to enjoy it. At Fresh City Kitchen, we’re constantly inspired by the city’s iconic bites, reimagining them into seasonal, office-friendly catering menus your team will love.

Whether it’s lobster roll lunches, smoky-crispy sliced brisket, small bites with sangria, or our signature caesar dressing (yes, it is that good), we’re here to turn your office into the summer hot spot  — no lines, no traffic, no stress!

👉 Check out our summer catering options
👉 Get in touch to plan your next corporate event

Planning a Summer Outing for Your Boston Office? Start Planning Here!

June 6, 2025 in /by

5 Outdoor Venues for Your Summer Corporate Outing in Boston

As summer finally arrives and Boston shakes off its rainy season, outdoor event season is in full swing. That means company outings are popping up on calendars across the city. But while everyone loves the idea of a day out of the office, actually planning one can be a bit more complicated.

At Fresh City Kitchen, we’ve partnered with corporate teams across Greater Boston to throw unforgettable summer events. Whether it’s a casual evening on the waterfront or an active afternoon of team-building, we’re here to take the stress out of planning and put the fun back into summer. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite Boston-area venues that guarantee a good time!

The Tall Ship – Waterfront Views & Lawn Games

Just minutes from Boston, the Tall Ship is a show-stopping venue with postcard-worthy views of the Boston skyline. It offers multiple rental options — the ship itself, a waterfront tent, and a Navy Yard bar — making it ideal for teams of all sizes.

Expect lawn games, an oyster raw bar, and an unbeatable ocean breeze. Their in-house catering features everything from fresh New England seafood to street tacos, Neapolitan pizzas, and all-American BBQ — something for everyone on your team.

Boston Harbor Cruises – Sunset Sails & Team Toasts

Looking for a more dynamic outing? Charter a private cruise through Boston Harbor.

Companies like Boston Harbor Cruises and Liberty Fleet offer sunset sails and full-service charters departing right from the city. Sir Winston in Marina Bay is a more affordable option just 20 minutes outside Boston. These cruises include bar service, catering, and panoramic views of the skyline and harbor islands — a relaxing and memorable way to celebrate with your team or toast a big win.

Flynn Cruiseport – Industrial-Chic With a View

Once a World War I-era warehouse, Flynn Cruiseport is now a massive and flexible waterfront venue. With multiple floors and indoor/outdoor options, it’s perfect for events of all sizes.

One standout feature: their “Drive-Thru” area — a partially covered outdoor space that’s ideal for creative catering setups, food trucks, and multiple bar locations. Located right on Boston Harbor, it’s one of the most versatile venues in the city.

Harry Parker Boathouse – Classic New England Charm

This hidden gem on the Charles River offers a peaceful, scenic setting for summer gatherings of up to 200 people. With docks, balconies, and serene river views, it’s a perfect option for a relaxed but memorable company outing.

Picture a catered clambake simmering under a tent, ice-cold Arnold Palmers in hand, and your team rowing together on the Charles. If you want a quintessential New England experience with built-in activities, this is your spot.

New Balance Track – Big Energy for Big Teams

Located in Brighton, the New Balance Track is an exciting venue for companies looking to lean into a more athletic or team-building focus.

The space offers everything from small meeting rooms to a full track-and-field arena. Host a team relay, wellness day, or casual get-together in a private suite (with TVs and a personal bar). With room for groups large and small — plus fully catered food, bar service, and snacks available — this is a high-energy way to celebrate your crew.

Fresh City Kitchen: Approved & Ready to Cater

Good news: Fresh City Kitchen is an approved caterer at both the Harry Parker Boathouse and New Balance Track. Working with a pre-approved vendor simplifies your planning and ensures a seamless experience — especially for larger, signature events.

From New England BBQ menus and lobster rolls to passed hors d’oeuvres and summery signature cocktails, we’ll help you craft a menu that fits your vibe and leaves your team raving.

Planning a summer outing for your company has never been this much fun!

Let’s Make This Summer Unforgettable

After a long New England winter, your team deserves a summer outing they’ll never forget. Whether your group is 10 or 1,000, Fresh City Kitchen can help you find the right Boston venue and create a catered experience that celebrates your hard work — with great food, local flavor, and zero stress.

Ready to plan your event?

Reach out today and let’s get started.

Our Best Tips and Tricks for Spring Holiday Hosting

April 11, 2025 in /by

Hosting a holiday or an event at your house, as fun as it is, is usually pretty stressful. With last minute cancellations, kids going crazy, and family arriving 45 minutes late—or even worse, 45 minutes early—hosting can be a serious challenge. And since both Easter and Passover are just around the corner, I’m sure that many of you are feeling the pressure. But never fear, Fresh City Kitchen is here! 

For our April post, we wanted to dedicate it to the brave hosts of spring holiday festivities everywhere, and provide some much-needed professional advice on how to throw a stress free, totally awesome, and beautiful Easter or Passover event at home. 

Before we get into the details, we’re going to lay out some baseline advice for any holiday event you’re hosting. Some of this might seem like common sense, but they’re things that people can often forget, and they’ll be extra helpful if it’s your first time entertaining.

Prep ahead of time

For things like salads, charcuterie boards, or crudité that require a lot of cutting and arranging, take care of them the day or the night before. As long as you leave the dressing off until the last minute, any salad you make can be totally chopped up, tossed, and in the bowl you want to serve it in and it will stay fresh and crisp in your fridge. If you’re having an egg hunt, make sure you buy the candy and put it in the eggs the night before. These all seem like little things, but when you leave all the little things until the day of, they can add up to one big ball of stress.

Build a schedule

Start with the time you want to eat (whether it be breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or linner), and work backwards. Set times for when things need to go in the oven or on the stove, when you want to set out appetizers and drinks, and even smaller things like when you want to set the table. If you don’t stick perfectly to the plan, that’s OK! Simply having a plan to start off with will make you a million times more prepared for a great gathering!


Delegate! 

Yes, we all want to be the superhost that can decorate, cook, bake, mix up drinks, and entertain all at once. But it’s also important to give yourself time to enjoy your own shindig! Your friends and family will want to help you. If you’re OK with giving out assignments, appetizers and desserts tend to be the easiest thing to hand off to others. If you’re worried about keeping things kosher, it’s OK to ask guests to arrive a little earlier to help with set up instead! 

Plan Kid’s Activities

There’s nothing worse than having screaming kids running through the kitchen as you’re pulling out your chef’s knife and grabbing a burning hot pan out of the oven. To avoid this challenge (or urgent care visit waiting to happen), make sure you have something fun for the kids to do. For those celebrating Easter, set up an egg-dying station outside! This will help you keep the kids’ mayhem contained, as well as the mess of dying eggs, and hopefully give the kids a fun tradition to carry on. Plus, if you hard boil your eggs first, they won’t get broken, and you can pop them in the fridge to peel after everyone goes home. The kids get fun, and you get a nice high-protein snack or salad topper!

Less is More with the Drinks

For Easter meals, a DIY Mimosa & Spritz Bar is a quick way to make your life a lot easier. When you’re already running around like a chicken with its head cut off trying to get food ready, taking the cocktails off your plate is a big help. You can set up a self-serve drink station with a variety of juices (orange, grapefruit, peach, whatever you prefer) and bubbly options like Prosecco. If you have kids coming or family that prefers not to drink, adding some seltzer to the mix so they can craft their own mocktails includes them in the fun. For a springtime touch (and to make your drinks insta story worthy) add a basket of fresh herbs and edible flowers for your guests to throw in.

Ask About Allergies

This can be as easy as making a group chat and shooting a quick text to all your guests a week or two ahead of time. It’s an easy thing to forget, but it’s a lot easier to accommodate when you know ahead of time, rather than finding out someone’s going vegetarian right as you put the ham or gefilte fish down in front of them.

Going the Extra Mile

And for the serial host, who just read all of those tips and thought, “well DUH,” don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Over at Fresh City Kitchen, we’ve been cooking up some strategies to elevate your holiday without too much of a hassle. To get that WOW! factor without too much work, give these ideas a shot.

★ Grazing Nests ★

Instead of a traditional charcuterie board, arrange meats, cheeses, or fresh fruit in small “nests” using shredded phyllo cups or mini wicker baskets for a festive look.

★ Brunch-Style Deviled Eggs ★

Elevate deviled eggs by incorporating unique and exciting toppings. Try a lox deviled egg with smoked salmon, pickled onion, and capers, or get gourmet with crushed potato chips and truffle oil. If you’re looking for a festive pop of color, mix the yolk filling up with beets filling for a delightfully pink colorful twist. If you’re feeling energetic, make them all to create an egg flight board!

★ Floral Ice Cubes ★

Freeze edible flowers in ice cubes for a beautiful and easy way to elevate drinks. Rose petals, cornflower, and marigold are all edible and can be found for less than $10 online. These would be perfect for lemonade, iced tea, or your DIY spritz bar!

★ Brisket Bites ★

Give a modern twist to an old Passover classic (if you can convince your older family members). Putting a small slice of brisket onto a potato chip gives you the perfect salty, crunchy app that your guests won’t forget. Add chopped chives on top for a fresh flavor and a colorful element.

★ Whipped Butter Board ★

(Yes, we know we’ve suggested this before, but it’s too good to leave out!!) Take the popular butter board trend into spring by whipping butter with honey, citrus zest, and fresh herbs, and spreading it on a nice plate or wooden cutting board. Serve them with warm rolls or matzo crackers and your guests can scoop the butter straight off the board.

And of course, we can’t leave you without a signature FCK recipe. For me, the highlight of my family’s Easter brunch is a family tradition: my Grammy’s coconut cream pie. With only six ingredients, it’s simple, yet creamy and perfectly delicious, and using kosher pudding and crust makes this pie perfect for Passover too!

Grammy Grace's Coconut Cream Pie

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz semi-sweet baking chocolate
  • ¾ cup sweetened coconut flakes
  • 2 cups of cool whip
  • 1 Graham cracker pie crust (Kosher for Passover crusts are available on Amazon!)
  • 1 ½ cups of cold milk
  • 1 pack of vanilla instant pudding

Instructions

  1. Microwave the chocolate on high for one minute until it’s completely melted. Mix with ¼ cup of coconut flakes and 1 cup of cool whip, then spread at the bottom of the pie crust. Put this in the refrigerator while you make the filling
  2. Mix pudding package and milk together with a whisk. Pour gently onto the crust, then carefully top with the remaining cool whip. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the coconut on top.
  3. Refrigerate for 4 hours, then enjoy!

DIETARY ACCOMODATIONS

WE'RE HERE TO SERVE YOU

Corporate office catering demands a high level of presentation, attention to the smallest details, and accommodation of many diets and allergies in the modern workplace.

If something looks off, the questions come your way. If an allergy is missed, the questions come your way, and if something is missing it’s you that winds up running around to fill that gap. Focusing on the smallest details that might not seem important until they’re overlooked, and that’s why our customers rave about us to their colleagues! We’ve got your back and are here to serve you so that you can focus on what matters most at work.

Often Overlooked & Under Utilized, Soup Season Is Here. At Home & In-Office

February 28, 2025 in /by

It’s about that time when we’re all getting a little tired of the Boston winter. Sure, the snow is beautiful, but it’s always sludge on the side of the road a few hours after it falls. Tea and hot cocoa are nice, but you can only have so many mini marshmallows before you start missing margaritas and lemonade. The novelty of winter has officially worn off, and Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction of 6 more weeks of winter was not well received. In light of the winter weariness hitting a little harder this week over at Fresh City Kitchen, we wanted to offer up the best solution we have for chilly weather: a warm bowl of soup (or at least our favorite recipe for one). 

We know that sometimes soups get a reputation for being plain, but we vehemently disagree, and we’re here to set the record straight. We’ll open your eyes to a whole new world, a whole new fantastic point of view (any Disney fans out there?). Whether it’s bisque, black bean, curry, chili, chowder, egg drop, miso, minestrone, or FCK’s famous lasagna soup, we’re sure that there’s a recipe out there that will rock your world and keep you toasty right down to your New Englander L.L. Bean boots. 

And don’t worry if you’re still not convinced, we aren’t done yet. First of all, soups are generally easy and quick to prepare. There might be some chopping, sauteing, or prep at the outset, but for the most part, a good soup is set it and forget it. Especially if you have a crock pot or a slow cooker, which are essential kitchen tools in the wintaahh! It’s easy to prep your recipe and head out for whatever errands, work, or kid transporting you have on the agenda for the day. 



Soups are also pretty versatile. If you’re missing the corn for your chowder or the carrots for your chicken noodle soup, it’s not going to make or break the recipe. There’s no need to schlep through the snow (or the slush) to grab the one ingredient your partner forgot to get you at the store. We also love that soup can also be a hearty option for our friends with some common dietary restrictions (FCK’s deliciously spiced vegan and gluten-free Lentil Chickpea Stew fits the bill!). Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian soups are all easily done and make for a delicious, filling meal. When planning catering for your Boston office don’t forget to ask about seasonal soups this time of year. We’re serving up New England clam chowder, Fresh City chicken noodle, roasty tomato soup, and a variety of hearty chilis to offices catering lunch across Boston this winter!

Soups are also easily frozen, meaning you can make a big batch on the weekend so you’ll have one ready for whenever you need.



FCK's Soup Storage Hacks

★ Store With Ziplocs ★

 If you’re short on freezer space, leave a pot to cool on your stove for a few hours, then grab a buddy to help you pour it (Carefully! And potentially over your sink to prevent spills) into a Ziploc bag. The flat shape is much easier to fit into a tight space than a big Tupperware.

★ Dining for One ★

 If you’re only cooking for yourself, freeze your dinner in individual microwaveable containers. This way, you can defrost a little bit at a time.

★ Kick it Old School ★

Bring soup to work in a thermos. For only $15 you can grab a big dose of grade school nostalgia from your favorite retailer. It will keep your food warm all day, and it’ll last years!!

So if you’re still not convinced after all of that, we wanted to share a closely guarded FCK family recipe that was one of my favorite meals growing up.

Aunt Jill's White Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

  •  3 Chicken breasts 
  • 2 Cans white beans (drained and rinsed) 
  • 1 Can of black beans (drained and rinsed) 
  • 32 oz chicken broth 
  • 1 Jar of your favorite salsa 
  • 2 Tbsp cumin 
  • 2 Cloves garlic (minced) 
  • Optional: White onions
  • Optional: Hot chiles 

Veggies: 

  • Zucchini 
  • Seasonal squash 
  • Bell peppers 

Toppings: 

  • Avocado 
  • Grated cheddar cheese 
  • Sour cream 
  • Cilantro 
  • Scallions 
  • Fritos (yup, Fritos!)

Instructions:

Put chicken broth, garlic, and cumin into a pot or slow cooker. Simmer the chicken until tender, then pull it out and shred it. This can be done eaily by mixing it with a paddle in a stand mixer, or simply by pulling it apart with a fork in each hand. Add the rest of the ingredients into the put and simmer until tender. Put the chicken back in, and you’re all done!

This delectable soup walks the line between a classic chili and chicken soup, made with chicken stock instead of tomatoes. We love it for its versatility: it’s a go-to whenever we need to clean out the cabinets. The chicken breasts, broth, cumin, and garlic are a must, but everything else is fairly interchangeable. The beans and veggies can all be swapped with whatever kind you happen to have slowly turning mushy in your fridge drawers or gathering dust at the back of your pantry shelf. Our favorites are usually zucchini and squash, but chopped bell peppers, spinach, kale, carrots, or potatoes would also taste great.

Finally, the make-or-break finish to Aunt Jill’s chicken chili is the toppings. When we have it, we need to leave the pot on the stove to leave room for all the tiny bowls of toppings on the table. We highly recommend chopped avocado, sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro, and if you want an extra spicy zing, add pickled jalapenos or this delicious guacamole salsa. Together, they create a nice creamy finish with a zesty bite at the end. The only absolute non-negotiable is a bag full of Fritos. If you grab them, crush them up, and sprinkle them on top of the soup, you get the perfect crunch that makes the meal! 



So if you find yourself thinking about the beach, iced coffee, and backyard barbecues, hold off before you start looking for flights to tropical locations. Our remedy is much faster and much cheaper! Try some soup, they’re truly souper!

DIETARY ACCOMODATIONS

WE'RE HERE TO SERVE YOU

Corporate office catering demands a high level of presentation, attention to the smallest details, and accommodation of many diets and allergies in the modern workplace.

If something looks off, the questions come your way. If an allergy is missed, the questions come your way, and if something is missing it’s you that winds up running around to fill that gap. Focusing on the smallest details that might not seem important until they’re overlooked, and that’s why our customers rave about us to their colleagues! We’ve got your back and are here to serve you so that you can focus on what matters most at work.

Kick Off the New Year by Eating Healthier at Work

January 21, 2025 in /by

As we say goodbye to 2024 and hello to 2025, many of us are focused on starting the
New Year right. New Year’s resolutions often bring shiny new gym memberships, ambitious diet
plans, and the hope of building healthier habits. Yet, old habits can be tough to shake—especially after a holiday season filled with charcuterie boards and eggnog. Starting off strong can feel challenging when the winter slump sets in, especially considering how busy the New Year can be. We’re no strangers to the chaotic kick-off of a new year packed with meetings, events, and corporate travel that can make maintaining healthy eating habits a challenge. It’s all too easy to slip back into the convenience of microwave meals and fast food. But with a few simple strategies, eating healthier at work can be both manageable and delicious.


Many of us are familiar with the common enemy to healthy eating: hangriness. When the
afternoon hits and I’m fueled purely by the morning’s granola bar and a venti iced coffee, I know
the first thing I reach for is going to be a chocolatey treat. 

DO YOU EVER FEEL LIKE THIS COME 1 PM?

This is the result of low blood sugar, which can make us cranky, irritable, and tired. And while carb and sugar-heavy snacks are certainly a valid option, unfortunately, they won’t get you out of your hangry rut. Carb-heavy foods have been shown to spike blood sugar rather than sustainably elevate it, leading to low blood sugar again about an hour after you snack.

By preparing meals and snacks higher in protein ahead of time, we can
pair the chips, chocolate, or baked goods we crave with options that prolong energy and boost
productivity, like protein shakes, greek yogurt, or peanut butter. Buying specific containers for meal prep can help you pack items ahead of time, and stick to a plan throughout the week.

The most important point is this enables you to have a healthy meal (available) when hunger strikes!

Another strategy is to bulk prep proteins such as grilled chicken, salmon, or steak,
on a Sunday to set yourself up for the week. These versatile proteins can be used throughout the
week in chicken Caesar wraps, hummus and grain bowls, or chicken pesto pasta. You can have the variety you crave but only have to prepare a single type of protein in one large batch. 

Chopping up fruits and vegetables at the beginning of the week ensures that you have healthy snacks ready to grab, which are great alternatives to processed food. These can be paired with
high-protein dips like hummus, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt to add both flavor and nutrition.

FCK FAMILY'S FAVORITE MEAL PREP HACKS:

USE SALAD DRESSING AS A MARINADE

 Simply put chicken breast in a ziploc bag with some Light Caesar dressing and leave it in the fridge overnight. Grill it up the next day, and you’ll get juicy, flavorful results!

MAKE DINNER AND A HALF

By making a little extra of your family’s favorite dinner, you can take a balanced meal to work without having to plan out another meal. Portion the leftovers into microwavable containers for an easy, ready-to-go lunch the next day.

GET CREATIVE WITH AI

Eating can feel like a drag if you have the same thing every
afternoon. Especially when it comes to salads, adding in foods you wouldn’t often think of can add excitement to the day. Try adding unique toppings like goat cheese, cranberries, strawberries, pepperoncini, or prosciutto (although maybe not all at once).

Believe it or not, using a free AI tool like ChatGPT can help come up with ideas for your weekly variety in under 60 seconds!

LIGHTLY ROASTED APPLES, GOAT CHEESE, TOASTED PECANS ARE EASY, DELICIOUS, AND HEALTHY!

For those lucky enough to work in companies that provide catered meals in the workplace, Fesh City
can help you eat what makes healthier. Simply asking your workplace coordinators is
the place to start. Most companies that have a strong focus on workplace culture will be wide open to ideas and requests from their team members that ultimately keep people healthier, feeling
better, and more productive!

Finding an office catering partner who is willing to help plan menus is step one.
Throughout January and February, we’re partnering with workplaces to provide healthy, protein-rich meals tailored to your team’s needs. We collaborate with you to build weekly menus that emphasize healthy options, eliminating the guesswork for you. We also provide options
for many different allergies, restrictions, or preferences. Our team is dedicated to killer hospitality, ensuring no one is left out of a nutritious, satisfying meal.

If you’re nervous about having teams on site for multiple days but don’t want to bog them down with heavy meals that will signal nap time, just say the words and we’ll create a simple plan based on your
days, headcount, and budget that will keep people fueled and feeling good to get the New Year off to a fast start!

For example, start the day with breakfast favorites like farm-fresh eggs and Greek yogurt parfaits, packed with fresh fruits to provide an energy boost to jumpstart the
morning and enough protein to keep you going.

Healthy afternoon meals and snacks are also crucial for avoiding the post-lunch slump. One of our winter menu favorites is the Asian Salad & Grain Bowl Bar with free-range chicken breast, avocado, chickpeas, and cashews, and a variety of other fun + healthy toppings to get people excited! You can also add char-grilled steak, roasted Atlantic salmon, or grilled chicken to any menu we offer for extra protein.

HEALTHY GRABS THROUGHOUT THE WORK DAY

DO'S

Hard-boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, chia seed pudding (if you haven’t tried Fresh City Kitchen’s, you’re missing out big time!), fresh fruit, nuts, veggies, hummus or peanut butter, cold-pressed juices (with no added sugar), minimally processed shakes like Koia, or Chomps grass-fed beef sticks. Ask us for ideas if you’re planning catering for your next meeting and need some healthy snacks.

DON'TS

Processed, mass-produced snacks like “veggie sticks”, candy, high-sugar protein bars, and all the usual suspects like Cheetos, Fritos, and Doritos. These snacks make you hungrier and contain inflammatory vegetable oils that are found in addictive processed snacks.

AVOID THESE TEMPTATIONS—AS TASTY AS THEY MAY BE, THEY’RE NOT LOOKING OUT FOR YOUR HEALTH!

PRO TIPS

Adding electrolytes to your favorite Stanley or Swell bottle the next time you fill it at the cooler will keep your energy up during the day and heading out for a brisk 10-minute walk after lunch (maybe bring some mittens) will help you digest lunch more effectively and avoid spending the afternoon staring blankly at your keyboard.

Make 2025 a year of healthy habits, not temporary resolutions by starting with what we eat at work, and when we’re busy!

With a little planning and support from your favorite office caterer (hint —> Fresh City Kitchen), sticking to those New Year’s resolutions just got a whole lot easier.

FCK Famous Apple Crisp Recipe

October 18, 2024 in /by

‘Tis the season. School buses are rolling down the street again, the smell of pumpkin spice is wafting out of just about every coffee shop, and Halloween decorations are sneaking onto the shelves at the local grocery store. As much as we might hesitate to pack the bathing suits away and pull out our sweaters and scarves from wherever they’re hiding, summer has turned to fall whether we want it to or not. 

So, to chase the seasonal blues away, Fresh City Kitchen has an excellent suggestion: the perfect fall dessert! Autumn’s confectionary king is a topic of much debate. For some, pumpkin reigns supreme: pumpkin bread, pumpkin pie, and even pumpkin cheesecake are delicious without a doubt. But in our opinion, the undisputed flavor of fall in Boston and New England is apple. And when it comes to dessert, specifically apple crisp. (Just because we’re office catering experts doesn’t mean we’re a one-trick pony!)

It’s the best of every world, balancing a crunchy topping with a gooey filling, and the sweetness of apple with the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. And unlike many other dessert options, apple crisp is a breeze to throw together. Contrary to what the saying “easy as pie” might make you believe, pie crust can be pretty finicky to make. A dash too much flour and it’s crumbling to pieces or one too many tablespoons of butter and it’s mush at the bottom of the pan. Apple crisp is far simpler to make, just cut up the apples and mix up the topping. The hardest part is getting the buttery bits off your fingers! 

So when summer vacations come to an end, kids need to be dropped off at school again, and assignments are coming in faster than you can crank them out, do yourself a favor. Skip the apple pie, go for the crisp! 

Fresh City Kitchen’s perfect apple crisp recipe has one special detail that makes it stand out: the apple variety. For the best possible crisp, you want half Granny Smith apples and half MacIntosh. While it may seem nit-picky, it’s important. The MacIntosh apples will soften up pretty quickly when they’re cooked. As they bake, they’ll mix in with the sugar and spices, creating a delicious apple, nutmeg, and cinnamony delight that mixes perfectly with a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream (we highly suggest Brigham’s vanilla bean). The second part of our dynamic apple duo, the Granny Smith, maintains its shape in the heat of the oven. That way once the pan comes out of the oven, instead of just having applesauce—albeit delicious applesauce—with a crumble on top, you will have a mouthwatering crisp that still has a nice bite to it.

If you’re looking for a fun weekend activity to get some leaf peeping in and enjoy the last few rays of sunshine before we creep towards winter, head out to a Boston area farm and pick your own apples! It’s the perfect fall date idea or excursion for the family, and there are plenty of pick-your-own farms within 45 minutes of downtown Boston. In particular, Honey Pot Hill Orchard in Stow, Massachusetts offers beautiful views and bountiful trees only 45 minutes out of the city. With hayrides, farm animals, hedge mazes, and a hard cider tent, Honey Pot Hill provides something for everyone. And if you’re looking for somewhere a little more low-key, CN Smith Farm in East Bridgewater, MA has been a personal favorite of the Fresh City Catering team for a decade! Just 45 minutes south of Boston, it offers a calmer atmosphere, as well as another fall dessert must-have: apple cider donuts. For those of you on the north shore stop by Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury for incredible hard cider and live music, or the family favorite in Danvers, Connor’s Farm which is ripe (get it) with fun family activities during the fall!

Fall in New England is primetime for our favorite catered dessert, the apple crisp.

TOPPING:

  • 1/2 lb Butter, cubed
  • 1 cup Flour
  • 1/2 cup Old Fashioned Oats
  • 3/4 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1/2 tbsp Cinnamon

TOPPING DIRECTIONS:

1) Put all dry ingredients in mixer and mix until incorporated.

2) Add cut pieces of butter and mix until it has a mealy texture and all ingredients are mixed well together.

FILLING:

  • 6 lbs Apples (Macintosh/Granny Smith), peeled, cored, sliced
  • 3/4 cup Sugar
  • 2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1 tsp Nutmeg
  • Pan Spray

Directions

1) Peel, quarter, core and slice the apples into 1/4” thick slices.

2) Toss apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3)  Spray 9”x7” lightly with non-stick pan spray

4) Fill pan half way with apple mixture.

5) Sprinkle a layer of the topping. This helps soak up all the goodness when it bakes.

6) Fill the pan with the rest of the apples.

7) Top with remaining topping.

8) Bake at 350°F for 30-45 minutes. The topping should start to caramelize and you should see apple sugar juice bubbling up around the edges.

9) Let cool for as long as you can withstand, then dive-in and top with vanilla ice cream for optimal enjoyment!

Let us know how your apple crisp turns out by sending tagging us with a picture on Instagram @freshcitycatering

If you need help planning the perfect fall catering menu for your next office meeting or event email us for Boston office catering and menu planning!



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