Strawberries: These gorgeous fruits are of the Chandler and Seascape varieties and should be eaten soon since we pick them ripe. To store, leave them in the green basket inside of paper bag in fridge and wash only before consuming. Please return the baskets to your delivery site so they can be reused. Enjoy!
Chives: These should be kept in a plastic bag in the fridge and wash right before use. You can also freeze them! Mix finely-chopped chives with just enough olive oil or butter to bind them together and freeze the mixture in ice cube trays. They do not dry well and will last for only a few days. Remember: fresh herbs are tender and heat will destroy their flavor; they should be added toward the end of the cooking time or sprinkled over the top of a dish just before serving.
Basil: Some of you asked to be buried in basil , so we are attempting to do just that! It is a succulent, oh-so-aromatic herb that adds depth to many a dish and can be made into a tasty pesto Store in plastic bag in fridge and use soon.
Cherry Tomatoes: You'll receive a basket of our first-of-the-season mixed heirloom cherry tomatoes! These oh-so-delicious candy-like treats are a welcome addition to any green salad, pasta salad, or as a quick snack. Never store in fridge to maintain great flavor and texture. Keep them on the counter and eat soon.
Tomatoes: First of the season! We are finally having our highly-anticipated first flush of tomatoes at the farm for the year. In your box this week are either Early Girl or Shady Lady slicers or some mixed heirlooms. Always store tomatoes on the counter, as putting them in the fridge will change their texture and flavor and store them "belly button" down. Wash well before eating and enjoy the sweet taste of vine-ripe summer goodness!
Summer Squash: With a delicate flavor, this zucchini can be quickly sauteed or steamed with just a touch of oil or butter and some fresh herbs. It also goes well shredded in a salad or baked into bread. Stores best in plastic bag in fridge and wash before eating.
Yellow Tapered Peppers: These tasty yellow and orange peppers depart a mild flavor and irresistible crunch. They are great eat raw in salads or roasted and add a special something to any summer dish. Store in crisper in fridge and wash before eating.
Middle Eastern Cucumbers: These cucumbers boast a slightly nutty flavor and an thin edible skin. No need to peel these cucurbits! They are amazing fresh in a salad or with a little lime, yogurt, and chile. These are not waxed and may keep better wrapped in plastic in the fridge and wash before eating. Delicious!
Green Bell Peppers: These sweet and versatile peppers have a great crunch are a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and are perfect for stuffing. Store in crisper in fridge and wash before eating.
Black Bell Eggplant:*bonus extra* This is a bonus veggie this week and feel free to share this farm fresh beauty with a neighbor if you wish. We grew these through a weed fabric barrier this season and they are producing quite well. These are exceptionally sweet, but the best way to draw out any bitterness is to cube it & cover with salt, then let sit for 10 minutes or so. Wash off salt & sauté or otherwise cook for a rich, complex flavor. Store in crisper in fridge for best results.
Bunching Onions: These young onions are great raw in salads or on sandwiches, in omelets, soups, curries, or stir-fries. Use the tasty green tops, too! Wash well and remove bottom quarter-inch before consuming.
Potatoes: You will either receive Yellow Finns or German Butterballs this week in your box. The Yellow Finns are the classic European gourmet potato that has a buttery sweet flavor. They are perfect for mashing, boiling, frying, or baking. The German Butterball is a similar variety but has a yellower flesh. It also has a characteristic buttery taste and is a great all-purpose spud. Store in fridge for best keeping and eat the skin for most nutrients. Wash well before eating and enjoy!