Chef Brooke Parkhurst Highlights Dairy’s Role in Budget-Friendly Summer Meals

The culinary instructor and cookbook author discussed protein trends, family meal value and new dairy products appearing in stores.

PENSACOLA, Fla. (RFD News) — National Dairy Month officially begins Monday, serving as a chance to recognize dairy farmers and the products continuing to evolve across grocery stores.

Culinary instructor and cookbook author Brooke Parkhurst joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss changing shopping habits and growing versatility within the dairy aisle.

In her conversation with RFD News, Parkhurst discussed how dairy sections are expanding beyond traditional staples to include globally inspired dips, flavored creamers, and kefirs.

The discussion also focused on dairy’s role in protein-focused diets and why many consumers continue viewing dairy products as a strong value for families.

“I might have chicken at home, vegetables, but I’m going to go to the dairy aisle specifically for those stretch ingredients that help me make a casserole tonight, make a pasta the next night. They’re going to help me watch my budget, but I’m always serving my family and myself, a delicious, protein-packed food.”

Parkhurst also highlighted some of her favorite quick summer meals using dairy ingredients, as well as her June Dairy Month $10,000 Sweepstakes.

LEARN MORE: EasyHomeMeals.com

Related Stories
With core input inflation still hovering high, growers and retailers should plan pricing and promotions with tighter margins in mind — target early sales, leverage bundle deals, and secure logistics ahead of peak Halloween demand.
Dr. Ashley Johnson, with the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), joins us to share the sector’s perspective on new FDA initiatives targeting ultra-processed foods.
While there has been an increase in outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) this migration season, the CDC says the public health risk is low.
Heidi Exline with American Farmland Trust shares how their Farm to School initiative helps strengthen the connection between local farms and school food programs.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are expected to discuss commodities, trade and regional stability during meetings in Asia.
American beef and pork products are gaining visibility in Colombian butcher shops through training and merchandising programs.
Trapani Farms grows nearly 20 apple varieties while expanding its reach through farmers markets across the region.
Advocacy groups say farmers, ranchers and business owners may need to file claims before a July deadline.
Industry leaders say labor shortages and visa caps are putting pressure on the future of domestic shrimping.
Union leaders warn many federal researchers may leave their jobs rather than move to regional hubs.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
RFD-TV’s newest music series, “On the Record,” presented by John Deere, takes viewers on a journey through the heart of country music. Hosted by renowned broadcaster, Suzanne Alexander, the show features long-form interviews with today’s biggest artists and the veterans who inspired them. “On the Record” also gives viewers a front row seat to intimate performances and exclusive music video releases, highlighting the broad scope of Nashville’s talent.