Thursday, July 14, 2011

The Veggies are Here, The Veggies are Here!!!

I'm so excited! The CSA I'm hosting here in Northbrook is finally underway! Northbrook is a new location for this farm, so we have a slightly shortened season which allowed them to get their logistics down. Last night we got our first delivery!

So, what did it include? Potatoes, Kale, Beets, Baby Leeks, Turnips, Flat Leaf Parsley, Broccoli, Rainbow Chard, Basil, Baby Onion, & Oregano were all tucked neatly in my bag. 

Here are some pictures and ideas of what I plan to do with them. Thought this would be helpful for anyone shopping at farmers markets or buying seasonal produce as these are all in season now. And, if you're local and interested in this CSA, there's still time, just let me know!

Potatoes
I love red potatoes! As a side dish they are awesome boiled then just tossed with garlic, olive oil, salt and some chopped parsley. Kids will love the teeny tiny ones!


Kale
How about some kale chips? To make the, wash and dry the kale and chop into 1-2 inch pieces. Toss with olive oil and salt. Bake in a 375 degree oven for about 15 minutes or until the kale is crispy. Yum! Kids love these too!

Beets
I think this week I'll simply boil the beets (about 20 min), peel and slice. Once cool I'll top them with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar than sprinkle with goat cheese... Makes an awesome side salad!

Baby Leeks and Onions

Turnips
I have to admit, turnips don't often make my weekly grocery list. After a quick google search, I think this recipe  for beer braised turnips sounds good. I'll probably substitute the butter for olive oil to make it a bit more healthy. 



 Broccoli
So many options for broccoli! Maybe this week I'll try it steamed and tossed with pasta? To do, sauté cooked broccoli with olive oil and garlic. Add a little white wine and/or lemon juice. Toss with whole wheat pasta and top with parmesan. 



Rainbow Chard
These delicious and VERY nutritious greens are great steamed and tossed with oil, lemon, salt and parmesan. Annie loves them and will often ask for more!

Fresh Herbs
Basil, Parsley and Oregano- so many uses! You can use fresh herbs in all recipes in place of dried. Try 1 Tbs of chopped fresh for each tsp dried. 

I love my CSA! Getting such a fun variety of veggies each week is like a mini adventure- its fun deciding what to do with them all!