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Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes in Pasta Sauce: Why We Trust the Italian System

by Alex ChenakalJun 09, 2025

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Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes in Pasta Sauce: Why We Trust the Italian System

We don’t make our own tomato sauce — because someone in Italy already does it better. Here’s why we trust canned over fresh (and why it matters).

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by Alex ChenakalJun 01, 2025

A Lesson in Legacy: Reflections from Café du Monde

What Zina’s and Café du Monde Have in Common

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by Alex ChenakalMay 15, 2025

Cold Pasta, Smarter Fuel

Cold pasta isn’t just convenient — it’s metabolically smarter. At Zina’s, we’ve been doing it this way for years. The science is finally catching up.

On Bell Peppers: Color, Chemistry, and the Quiet Truth Behind Ripeness

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by Alex ChenakalMay 04, 2025

On Bell Peppers: Color, Chemistry, and the Quiet Truth Behind Ripeness

Red, green, yellow, and orange bell peppers aren’t different varieties—they’re snapshots in time. Here’s what changes with color, and how we use that at Zina’s.

Pasta Isn’t Just Pasta: Why Shape and Sauce Are a Culinary Power Couple

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by Valentin ChelnokovApr 08, 2025

Pasta Isn’t Just Pasta: Why Shape and Sauce Are a Culinary Power Couple

How pasta shape influences sauce, flavor, and the whole dish — and why at Zina’s, we think about this more than you’d guess.

Premiumization Isn’t Just a Trend — It’s a Trust Exercise

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by Valentin ChelnokovMar 31, 2025

Premiumization Isn’t Just a Trend — It’s a Trust Exercise

Premium isn’t about price — it’s about proof. At Zina’s, we show how transparency, real ingredients, and small-batch care redefine what “premium” means in the world of prepared foods.

Value Is More Than a Price Tag: What 2025 Shoppers Are Really Looking For — and How Zina’s Is Meeting Them There

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by Valentin ChelnokovMar 20, 2025

Value Is More Than a Price Tag: What 2025 Shoppers Are Really Looking For — and How Zina’s Is Meeting Them There

Consumers in 2025 aren’t just price-conscious — they’re meaning-conscious. At Zina’s, we’re building value not through discounts, but through trust, intention, and quality that lasts.

What Makes the Perfect Egg Salad? A Letter from the Zina’s Kitchen

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by Valentin ChelnokovMar 03, 2025

What Makes the Perfect Egg Salad? A Letter from the Zina’s Kitchen

At Zina’s, even egg salad gets our full attention. Valentin reflects on what makes this humble dish perfect — and why simplicity is the hardest thing to get right.

The Changing Face of American Grocery Stores

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by Valentin ChelnokovFeb 17, 2025

The Changing Face of American Grocery Stores

American grocery stores are evolving! From fresh meal options to expanding international flavors, discover how shopping trends are shaping the future of food retail.

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by Valentin ChelnokovFeb 03, 2025

Are Pickles Secretly Bad for You? The Truth About What You’re Really Eating 🥒

Pickles are a popular snack, but are they as healthy as they seem? This article dives into their nutritional value, the effects of sodium and preservatives, and how to choose the best options for your diet.

Zina's Fine Foods, Authentic Pasta Pesto

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by Valentin ChelnokovJan 09, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Pasta Salad Shelf Life at Home

Extend your pasta salad's shelf life with tips on safe handling, storage, and the role of preservatives in store-bought options. Stay fresh, stay safe!

Crafting the Perfect Relish: The Great Pickle Debate

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by Valentin ChelnokovJan 03, 2025

Crafting the Perfect Relish: The Great Pickle Debate

Dive into the Great Pickle Debate! Explore the art of crafting the perfect relish, from tangy flavors to crunchy textures. A must-read for pickle enthusiasts.

The Natural Choice: Why We’ve Never Used Artificial Dyes in Our Foods

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by Alex ChenakalDec 12, 2024

The Natural Choice: Why We’ve Never Used Artificial Dyes in Our Foods

Discover why Zina’s Fine Foods has always prioritized natural ingredients over artificial dyes. Learn how we craft vibrant, wholesome foods with integrity.

Why America Is Growing Less Food and the Rising Importance of Global Sourcing

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by Alex ChenakalDec 05, 2024

Why America Is Growing Less Food and the Rising Importance of Global Sourcing

Explore the decline in American agricultural production and the increasing need for global sourcing to meet consumer demands.

The Real Cost of Healthier Food: What RFK’s Policies Could Mean for Your Dinner Plate. Opinion of Valentin Chelnokov

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by Valentin ChelnokovNov 22, 2024

The Real Cost of Healthier Food: What RFK’s Policies Could Mean for Your Dinner Plate

Explore RFK's proposed food policies and their impact on cost, taste, and consumer habits. Discover how Zina's balances quality, health, and affordability.