These food holidays deserve celebrating every day of the week
Feb. 23
National Chili Day
Everyone has their own chili that they love. Some have beans, some don't have beans, some have meat, others are meatless. Whatever your chili preference, the best way to celebrate National Chili Day is to make your own. And while you are at it, make plans for the annual SC State Chili Cookoff in Belton coming on April 14.
Feb. 24
National Tortilla Chip Day
Saturday is National Tortilla Chip Day, but it seems wrong to celebrate with a simple chips and salsa combo. Something as big as National Tortilla Chip Day deserves some nachos, and there are a couple places that make the best nachos in their respective towns.
In Greenville, people don't stop talking about the Mile High Nachos at Chicora Alley (608 S. Main St.). These nachos are literally stacked as high as possible, but provide flavor with every bite.
In Anderson, Earle Street at Brookstone (100 River Club Dr.) puts out some pretty bangin' nachos of its own, but if you want to really decide what goes on your pile of chips, try out Moe's Southwest Grill (3144 N. Main St.) as well.
Feb. 25
National Clam Chowder Day
Most memories of clam chowder outside of the New England states are of your mom or dad opening a can of Campbell's clam chowder and warming it up. That's a terrible way to welcome National Clam Chowder Day. Instead, everyone should find their way to SummaJoe's Searing Pans (127 N. Main St.) and get a cup or a bowl of real New England clam chowder from a real New Englander.
Feb. 26
National Pistachio Day
We all need a little fish in our lives and halibut is a great white fish that will provide necessary Omegas while filling you up and making you feel healthier for eating it. For National Pistachio Day, try out this pistachio-encrusted halibut recipe:
Ingredients
2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
1 tsp. finely grated lemon peel
1 dash sea salt
Ground black pepper (to taste; optional)
4 (4-oz.) raw halibut fillets
¼ cup raw, unsalted pistachios, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. corn meal
1 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Combine mustard, lemon peel, salt, and pepper (if desired) in a small bowl; mix well.
Spread mustard mixture evenly on top side of each halibut fillet. Set aside.
Combine pistachios, corn meal, and parsley in a medium bowl; mix well.
Press pistachio mixture evenly into top side of each halibut fillet.
Place halibut in baking dish, pistachio side up. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until halibut flakes easily when tested with a fork.
February 27
National Kahlua Day
Find your favorite bar, belly up to it and bring on National Kahlua Day with a White Russian. If you need a suggestion, the Uptown Lounge (301 N. McDuffie St., Anderson) offers a White Russian for under $4 during happy hour Monday through Friday.
Feb. 28
National Chocolate Souffle Day
I can honestly say that I have no idea where to find a souffle in the Upstate. I am sure someone does one, but looking for it for around 15 minutes, I found nothing. Then, it turned out that Roost in Greenville took the challenge and will offer a chocolate souffle on Wednesday, Feb. 28, for the first and only time. Seriously, you can get some souffle from Roost tonight and enjoy one without the hassle.
March 1
National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day
Peanut Butter is among the most versatile foods in the world. It's easy to make, easy to eat and, unless you have a peanut allergy, it's also pretty universally beloved. But go outside the box on Peanut Butter Lovers' Day and head over to your favorite Thai restaurant for some peanut sauces of varied spices and flavors. I suggest Thaicoon Ricefire and Sushi (5000 Old Buncombe Road, Greenville) for all your peanut (and Thai food) needs.