Winter Share One November 16th 2023
Important information:
- This is the first winter share for both monthly and biweekly members.
- The next biweekly share is Nov. 30th.
- The next monthly share is Dec 14th.
- Winter Share distribution date magnets are also in your share box. Hope they are a helpful reference.
- Summer share members are welcome to return their boxes.
Produce: Salad greens Red Kale Brussel Sprouts Cauliflower Romanesco Leeks Golden beets Garlic orange Carrots Butternut squash Delicata squash Celeriac
Keuka Gold potatoes
Farm News from Jane
Well, the lawn was mowed for the last time and the beautiful crunchy leaves are all just mulch now. I didn’t have anyone raking them into piles this year to jump and play in. The kids must be getting older…
And even though the summer veggies are mostly gone I did really enjoy one final BLT last week. We still had one last row of heirloom tomatoes we were hanging onto until the last planting of salad greens was ready to transplant in its stead. One row of tomatoes sure can make a lot of people happy! They provided us with lots of yummy tomato sandwiches for quite a few months. The weather has been great for our continuing harvest. We have been working to get all the rest of the crops out of the ground before they are covered with snow. We seed lots and lots of carrots for winter storage. They are one of our most prized winter share vegetables; sweet, crunchy and packed with vitamins and minerals. Did you know that although carrots are both popular and plentiful; it is difficult to grow a great carrot that is crisp and sweet. Carrots need the proper conditions to grow; soil type, pH balance, tilth and a compatible seed variety. That’s why store-bought carrots vary so much in sweetness and flavor. They are a biennial vegetable which means that they produce seed the second year. So, when they are planted late in the summer and grow and mature in the cooler weather, they store lots of sugars for the spring seed-making process. And we get to harvest and enjoy all of those sugars.
We completed the beet harvest on Monday and are still in the process of pulling leeks for winter storage. There are also crucifers still growing in the field (think Brussel Sprouts, cabbage, Romanesco and cauliflower). There is one late planting of broccoli that was a gamble which we hope to harvest yet too. Although the weather has gotten cooler, they only need 50 degrees to grow. And on these sunny days they sure do grow! There are so many veggies to choose from this time of the year. We try to share as much as will fit in the box including one that may be unfamiliar. Check out the Produce tip section and the recipes for ideas and helps with these less familiar ones.
We have been blessed with an abundant harvest which we are very thankful for and we’re also very thankful for you, who make this partnership possible. We hope that you have a very blessed Thanksgiving whenever or with whomever you are able to share it. Although Thanksgiving seems all about the food, it’s really the fellowship which we share that makes it really special. Enjoy the harvest and the holiday, Jane & Ben
Produce tips:
– Brussel sprouts will store longer if removed from the stalk and placed in a plastic bag. We just “pop” them off using your thumb. This late variety are large; try shredding them for a raw salad. I had a shaved Brussel sprout salad at “This Little Pig” which was absolutely delicious. It is one of the restaurants that utilize our produce on their menu.
– Carrots; enjoy them raw and get ALL the nutrients; especially if you scrub them instead of peel them. The carotene and trace minerals are close to the carrot’s skin surface. Raw is even healthier; good thing kids like crunch!
– Leeks are a wonderful addition to soups or substitute then for onions in recipes. As the plant grows, soil particles get trapped. Sometimes you won’t find any soil between the leaves. It is dependent on the weather and the field conditions. To clean them you can slice them lengthwise and rifle the leaves under running water. Or, you can slice them into circles and place in a bowl of water to remove any trace of soil particle.
– Kale, cauliflower and Romanesco should be bagged before refrigerating.
– Romanesco is from the broccoli family and seems almost too beautiful to cut. But do enjoy it; its flavor and sweetness are really fantastic.
– Pumpkin (canned) otherwise known as butternut squash. So, for all of you whom have bought canned pumpkin for pies or other recipes now you know the truth. And you are free to use really tasty sweet pumpkin/squash for baking. I always reduce the amount in pie recipes because our squash is so sweet; nutritious and delicious!
Recipes
DICED BEETS WITH ORANGE ZEST AND YOGURT SAUCE
1/2 lb. beets, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes; 1/8 cup cider vinegar; zest of 1 orange, grated (about 1 tbsp.); 1/8tsp. ground mace; 1/8 tsp. ground cloves; 1/8 tsp. salt; freshly ground black pepper; 1/8 cup plain low-fat yogurt; 1 tbsp. fresh orange juice; 1/2 tsp. honey
Preheat the oven to 3750 F. In an 11/2-quart ovenproof casserole with a lid, combine the beets, vinegar, 1/4 cup of water, orange zest, mace, cloves, salt and pepper. Bake the beet mixture, covered, for one hour. Meanwhile, to make the sauce, mix together the yogurt and orange juice in a small bowl. Refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve. Remove the beets from the oven and stir in the honey. Serve immediately, topped with the yogurt sauce. Serves 2
ORANGE-GINGER BEETS
1/2-pound beets, cooked; 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger; 1/2 tsp grated orange rind or 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/3 cup orange juice; Salt and freshly ground pepper; 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice to taste; 1/2 tbsp cornstarch; 1/2 tbsp butter or margarine; 1 tsp sugar; Grated orange rind for garnish
Cut cooked beets in julienne strips; set aside. In small bowl mix orange rind and juice, lemon juice, cornstarch, sugar, ginger, salt, and pepper to taste. Melt butter or margarine in saucepan; add orange juice mixture. Stir over medium heat until mixture boils; reduce heat. Add beets and return to boil again. Remove and serve with sprinkling of grated orange rind for an extra touch. Serves 2
ORANGE BORSCHT
4 medium-size beets peeled and coarsely grated; 5 cups chicken stock; salt; freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 cups tomato juice; 2 1/2 cups orange juice; yogurt; chopped chives
Bring grated beets to a boil in chicken stock which has been seasoned to taste with salt and pepper. Turn down heat and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes. Add tomato juice. Puree mixture in electric blender, then add orange juice, mixing well to combine. Refrigerate for several hours. Serve with a dollop of yogurt and chopped chives. Yield: approximately 10 cups
WARM GOLDEN BEET SALAD WITH GREENS AND ALMONDS 1 bunch beets, both tops and roots, olive oil, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, 4 cloves garlic, minced, 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled, 2/3 cup toasted almond slivers.
Heat the oven to 425°F. Line a 9-inch square baking pan or cake tin with a big square of foil, large enough to complete enclose the beet roots. Lightly rinse the beet roots to remove any really clumpy dirt and pat them dry. Place them in the foil square and lightly drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Fold up the foil and crease to seal. Bake the beets for 60 minutes or until they can be just pierced with a fork. Set aside to cool. Meanwhile, chop the beet greens into bite-size ribbons. Discard the stalks between the roots and where the leaves start, but chop the leaf ribs along with the leaves. Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of dirt and grit. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and add the garlic. Cook on low for about 5 minutes or until the garlic is golden and fragrant. Add the chopped leaves and stir to coat with the garlic. Cook on medium-low for about 10 minutes or until the leaves are soft and tender. Remove from the heat. When the beets are cool, rub them with a paper towel to remove the skin. Then chop into bite sized pieces and toss with the cooked greens, goat cheese, and almonds. Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or cold. (This also makes an excellent pressed sandwich filling, especially with some extra goat cheese.)
SEARED BRUSSEL SPROUTS BRAISED WITH APPLE CIDER
12 large Brussels sprouts; cooking oil; salt; 1/4 cup apple cider
Trim Brussels sprouts and cut in half. Heat a cast-iron pan over medium flame. Add some oil. Sprinkle salt evenly over bottom of pan. Lay Brussels sprouts cut side down in the pan. Cook until deep brown or almost black in some places, about 5 minutes. Add apple cider, cover pan, and turn off heat. Let them continue cooking off the heat another 5 minutes. Serve with grilled chicken or black-eyed peas. Makes 2 servings. Recipe from Ben Hunter, Catacombs Coffeehouse
ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUT WITH CRISPED PANCETTA
1 lb. Brussels sprouts; 1/4-pound pancetta, cut into slivers; 1 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 tsp garlic salt
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Halve the large sprouts. Toss with olive oil and garlic salt; arrange in single layer on baking sheet. Bake, shaking pan halfway through roasting time, until tender (15-25 minutes, depending on size of sprouts). Brussels sprouts are done when they’re deep green with several brown caramelized spots. Meanwhile, sauté pancetta over medium heat until crisp. Toss Brussels sprouts with pancetta. Season with salt and pepper. Makes 4 servings. Recipe from MACSAC
BRUSSEL SPROUTS CASSEROLE *Here’s a recipe to take the place old the green bean casserole!
2 qts. Brussels sprouts; 5 oz. can water chestnuts, sliced; 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1/4 c. milk; 1 c. grated sharp process cheese; 1/2 tsp. salt; 1/8 tsp. pepper; 1/2 c. slivered toasted almonds
Cook Brussels sprouts in boiling salted water until tender; drain. Place in 1 1/2-qt. casserole; top with water chestnuts. Meanwhile, combine soup and milk. Add cheese, salt and pepper, and cook, stirring, until cheese melts. Pour over Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle with almonds. Bake in moderate oven (350°) until bubbling, 20 to 25 minutes. Makes 8 servings. Recipe from America’s Best Vegetable Recipes.
SIMPLE, SAVORY BRUSSEL SPROUTS
1 1b Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and halved lengthwise; 2 tsp butter; 4 green onions, cut into 1/4-inch slices; Salt and pepper, to taste
Steam Brussels sprouts in vegetable steamer until just barely tender, about 6 minutes. Drain, and run under cold water. Drain. Melt butter over medium heat. Sauté green onions 5 minutes, until softened. Add Brussels sprouts and sauté 5 minutes to heat through. Season with salt and pepper, and serve.
Makes 4 servings Recipe from Farm-Fresh Recipes.
KALE & BRUSSEL SPROUT SALAD
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon minced shallot, 1 small garlic clove, finely grated 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt plus more for seasoning, Freshly ground black pepper, 2 large bunches of Tuscan kale (about 1 1/2 lb. total), center stem discarded, leaves thinly sliced, 12 ounces Brussels sprouts, trimmed, finely grated or shredded with a knife, 1/2 c. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, 1/3 c. almonds with skins, coarsely chopped, 1 c. finely grated Pecorino
Combine lemon juice, Dijon mustard, shallot, garlic, 1/2 tsp. salt, and a pinch of pepper in a small bowl. Stir to blend; set aside to let flavors meld. Mix thinly sliced kale and shredded Brussels sprouts in a large bowl.
Measure 1/2 cup oil into a cup. Spoon 1 Tbsp. oil from cup into a small skillet; heat oil over medium-high heat. Add almonds to skillet and stir frequently until golden brown in spots, about 2 minutes. Transfer nuts to a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle almonds lightly with salt. Slowly whisk remaining olive oil in cup into lemon-juice mixture. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
DO AHEAD: Dressing, kale mixture, and toasted almonds can be prepared 8 hours ahead. Cover dressing and kale mixture separately and chill. Cover almonds and let stand at room temperature. Add dressing and cheese to kale mixture; toss to coat. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Garnish with almonds.
Recipe by Susan Spungen
SHAVED BRUSSEL SPROUT SALAD
1 t Dijon mustard, 3T olive oil, 1T walnut oil, 1T lemon juice, 1t sherry vinegar, 1T finely chopped parsley, salt and pepper; freshly ground to taste, 1 qt Brussels sprouts; shaved thinly by hand or on a mandolin, 1C roasted peanuts, 1C shaved Pecorino Romano cheese (or Parmigiano-Reggiano), ½ C flat leaf parsley
Prepare the vinaigrette: Put the mustard in a heavy bowl. Slowly add olive oil and walnut oil while whisking. Add lemon juice and sherry vinegar. Finish with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.
To prepare salad: Toss Brussels sprouts, peanuts, cheese and parsley in a salad bowl with the vinaigrette, to taste.
BRUSSELS SPROUT AND SAUSAGE SOUP
1 #Brussels sprouts 1/2-pound andouille sausage, 1 teaspoon olive oil, 3 large red potatoes, 2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon caraway seeds, 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
Trim ends off Brussels sprouts, remove any damaged external leaves, and cut in half lengthwise. Set aside. Remove casing from sausage and cut into 1/4-in.-thick slices. Put olive oil and sausage in a medium pot over medium-high heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until sausage is well browned, about 7 minutes. Meanwhile, peel potatoes and cut into roughly 1/2-in. pieces. When sausage is browned, add bay leaves and caraway seeds to the pot. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add potatoes, broth, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil. Add Brussels sprouts. Partially cover pot and reduce heat to low or medium-low to maintain a steady simmer. Cook soup until potatoes and Brussels sprouts are tender, about 15 minutes. Remove bay leaves and serve soup hot. Recipe from Myrecipes.com
CARROTS WITH SPICED PECANS
1 cup pecan halves; 1/4 teaspoon allspice; 4 teaspoons canola oil; 1/4 teaspoon powdered ginger; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Heat oven to 325 degrees. Place nuts in single layer on baking sheet and roast 7 minutes. Meanwhile, mix oil, sugar, salt, and spices. Toss partially roasted nuts in spice mix and roast another 7 minutes. Steam carrots over boiling water until crisp-tender, about 7 minutes. Toss with spiced nuts and serve immediately.
Makes 6 servings. Recipe from MACSAC
FRIED BEETS AND CARROTS
2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons cumin seeds; 2 medium beets, quartered, sliced 1/4-inch thick; 2 medium carrots, sliced 1/4-inch thick; tamari sauce; greens
Heat olive oil in skillet. Add cumin; cook about 1 minute. Add beets and carrots; fry until tender. Remove from heat, sprinkle on a little tamari, and serve. Variation: If using young beets save the tops. When the beets and carrots are tender, add chopped greens, cover, and cook until soft. Toss mixture, sprinkle with tamari, and serve. Makes 2-4 servings. Recipe from Linda Derrickson, Sunporch Cafe
PARSLEY POTATO CARROT HASH
2 tablespoons olive oil; 1-2 tablespoons butter; 11/2 pounds potatoes, scrubbed and cut into small cubes; 1 large carrot (about 1/2 pound), scrubbed and cut into small cubes; salt and pepper; 1/4-1/3 cup finely chopped leeks; 1/3-1/2 cup coarsely chopped parsley
Heat olive oil and butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium flame. Add potatoes and carrots, season generously with salt and pepper, and toss well. Cook undisturbed 4-5 minutes to brown on one side, then toss and brown again for 4-5 minutes. Lower heat, stir in leeks, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until tender. Stir in parsley. Note: You could add chopped ham, chicken, or hard-cooked eggs to the mixture along with the parsley. Makes 4-6 servings. Recipe from MACSAC
CARROT YOGURT SALAD
1 lb. carrots; peeled and coarsely chopped, 2 medium- sized tart apples; grated, 1-2 T lemon juice, 1-2 T honey, (optional), pinch of celery seed, salt and pepper to taste, 1 c. firm yogurt.
Optional additions: 1T poppy seeds or toasted sesame seeds, ¼ c. minced almonds or cashews; lightly toasted, ½ c. very finely minced celery, a handful of raisins or currants, ¼ c. shredded unsweetened coconut, lightly toasted, ½ c. finely chopped pineapple (or crushed canned in juice). Combine all ingredients and mix well. Chill. (This preparation goes fast if you use a food processor with a grater attachment.) Yield 4-5 main dishes for lunch; more if serving as a side dish. Recipe from The New Moosewood Cookbook.
HOT BEET & CARROT SLAW
2 T butter, 1 large clove garlic, 2 beets; fist sized, 1 medium carrot, ¾ C orange juice, salt and pepper
Prepare beets and carrots by peeling and grating. Crush and finely chop garlic. Sauté garlic in butter for 2 minutes. Add the rest of the ingredients and cook 5-8 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
BALSAMIC ROASTED CARROTS
1 T olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp ground black pepper, ½# carrots, 2T balsamic vinegar
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil. Combine olive oil, salt, pepper, and carrots in a bag or bowl; toss to coat. Pour the carrots into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven until tender, about 30 minutes. Sprinkle the balsamic vinegar over the carrots; shake the pan to coat evenly. Return to oven and bake until the liquid is absorbed, 5 to 10 minutes. Serve hot.
Recipe from Allrecipe.com
GOLDEN HARVEST POTATO BAKE
5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed, 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed, 5 large carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces, 3 garlic cloves, minced, 1 teaspoon dried tarragon, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided, 1/2 cup whole milk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon butter, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon pepper
Place the potatoes, carrots, garlic and tarragon in a Dutch oven; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain. In a large bowl, mash the vegetables. Stir in 1/2 cup cheese, milk, eggs, vinegar, butter, salt, parsley and pepper until blended. Transfer to a greased 13×9-in. baking dish; sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 25-30 minutes or until a thermometer reads 160°.
CAULIFLOWER WITH WHITE SAUCE OR CHEESE SAUCE
For an easy cream sauce whisk one cup of milk in a 2-cup measuring cup with 2 T. flour until well blended add 1 T. butter, 1/4 tsp. salt and 1/8 tsp. of pepper.
Microwave on high for 1 min. Stir well. Wave for another minute and stir again. Continue at 30 sec. intervals stirring well after each time until thickened. If cheese sauce is desired add 1/4 cup favorite cheese and heat and stir until well blended.
SPICY POTATO AND CAULIFLOWER
8 ounces potatoes; 5 tablespoons peanut oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 fresh red Chile, seeded and finely chopped; 1 medium cauliflower, broken up into small florets; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 2 garlic cloves, cut into shreds; 1-2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped; salt
Cook the potatoes in their skins in boiling salted water for about 20 minutes, until just tender. Drain and let cool. When cool enough to handle, peel and cut into I-inch cubes. Heat 3 tablespoons of the oil in a frying pan or wok. When hot, add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper and Chile. Let the spices sizzle for a few seconds. Add the cauliflower and about 1/4 cup water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 6-8 minutes. Add the potatoes and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, then remove from the heat. Heat the remaining oil in a small frying pan. When hot, add the cumin seeds and garlic and cook until lightly browned. Pour the mixture over the vegetables. Sprinkle with the chopped cilantro and serve at once. Serves 2
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
2 large cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 large head cauliflower, separated into florets; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped Combine garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper in a casserole dish. Add cauliflower, and toss to coat well. Bake 25 minutes at 425 degrees, stirring halfway through. Sprinkle top with Parmesan and parsley, and broil 35 minutes, until golden brown. Makes 6 servings
CAULIFLOWER AND CARROTS
1-2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cups small cauliflorettes; 3 medium carrots, in thin 1 ½ strips; ½ tsp salt; 2 large cloves garlic; minced; 1-3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; black pepper; basil, optional
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet. Add cauliflower, carrots and salt, and sauté over medium heat until tender 8-10 minutes. Stir in garlic during the last few minutes of cooking. Transfer to a bowl; add vinegar, pepper and basil if desired. Serve warm, cold or at room temperature. About 6 servings.
Recipe from The Moosewood Cookbook
CAULIFLOWER SALAD
3 c. shredded lettuce; 1 c. grated raw cauliflower; l/2 c. grated carrot; 3 tbsps. sweet pickle relish; 1/4 c. vinegar; 1/4 c. salad oil; 3 tbsps. Sugar; 1/2 tsp. onion salt; 1/8 tsp. pepper; 1/8 tsp. paprika
Combine lettuce, cauliflower, carrot and pickle relish in salad bowl. Shake together the remaining ingredients. Pour over salad and toss. Makes 6 servings.
Recipe from America’s Best Vegetable Recipes.
CAULIFLOWER FRIED RICE
Cauliflower, 1 Tbsp. of sesame oil, 1 Tbsp. of garlic, 8 oz beef, chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu, 1 cup of diced carrots, 1 cup of frozen peas, 2 eggs, White pepper to taste, 3 Tbsp. of soy sauce, chopped green onions for garnish
Break down a head of cauliflower in a food processor until it’s the size of rice. Heat sesame oil over high. Add garlic and fry until fragrant. Add the beef, chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu and cook until 80% done. Add carrots and peas, stir until thoroughly incorporated. Push ingredients to the sides of the pan to create a well. Pour in 2 whisked eggs and let it set for 15 seconds. Scramble eggs and fold into the cauliflower rice. Season with white pepper and stir in soy sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions.
CAULIFLOWER SOUP
1 medium head cauliflower, broken into florets, 1 medium carrot, shredded, 1/4 cup chopped celery, 2-1/2 cups water, 2 teaspoons chicken or 1 vegetable bouillon cube, 3 tablespoons butter, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, 2 cups 2% milk, 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce, optional
In a Dutch oven, combine the cauliflower, carrot, celery, water and bouillon. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender (do not drain). In a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in the flour, salt and pepper until smooth. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat. Stir in the cheese until melted, adding hot pepper sauce if desired. Stir into the cauliflower mixture.
ROASTED ROMANESCO
1 head Romanesco (also known as Romanesque cauliflower or Romanesco broccoli), cut into bite-size pieces, 1 T olive oil, salt, pepper, pinch of garlic powder and paprika
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spread Romanesco onto the prepared baking sheet; drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Roast in the preheated oven until tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
PASTA WITH ROASTED ROMANESCO AND CAPERS
¼ cup chopped almonds, ¼ cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil; plus more for drizzling, 2 tablespoons drained capers, patted dry, divided, Kosher salt, ½ medium Romanesco or cauliflower, cored, cut into small florets
8 garlic cloves, very thinly sliced, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving, ½ cup dry white wine, 12 ounces lumaconi (snail shells) or other medium shell pasta, 2 ounces aged Asiago cheese or Pecorino, finely grated, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Preheat oven to 425°. Cook almonds, ¼ cup oil, and 1 Tbsp. capers in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, swirling pan occasionally, until capers burst and almonds are golden brown and smell toasty, about 5 minutes. Transfer almonds and capers with a slotted spoon to a small bowl; season with salt. Let cool. Toss Romanesco with oil from saucepan on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt. Roast, tossing halfway through, until golden brown and tender, 20–25 minutes. Meanwhile, heat 3 Tbsp. oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot over medium-high. Add garlic, ½ tsp. red pepper flakes, and remaining 1 Tbsp. capers and cook, stirring often, until garlic is golden, about 3 minutes. Add wine and cook until liquid is almost completely evaporated, about 2 minutes. Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until very al dente, about 3 minutes less than package directions. Using a spider or a slotted spoon, transfer pasta to pot with garlic; add 1 cup pasta cooking liquid. Reduce heat to medium and cook, tossing often, until pasta is al dente and liquid is slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Add ¼ cup pasta cooking liquid, then gradually add cheese, tossing until melted and dissolved into a luxurious, glossy sauce. Remove from heat; add butter and toss to combine. Toss in Romanesco. Divide pasta among bowls. Top with fried almonds and capers and more red pepper flakes and drizzle with oil.
BRAISED CAULIFLOWER & SQUASH PENNE PASTA
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 3 large cloves garlic, 1 tsp. dried thyme, ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper, 4 C. “no-chicken broth”, 8 oz. whole wheat penne, (about 3 cups), 2 C. cauliflower florets, 2 C. 1/in. pieces peeled butternut squash, freshly ground pepper to taste, ¼ C Pecorino Romano cheese
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic, thyme and crushed red pepper and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add broth, penne, cauliflower and squash. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a lively simmer and cook, uncovered, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is thickened and greatly reduced, 14 to 16 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in pepper and let stand for 5 minutes. Serve topped with cheese.
Recipe form www.eatingwell.com
“SUMMER IN WINTER” CELERIAC CARROT SLAW
1 small celeriac bulb; 4 large carrots; 1 clove garlic or 1 small shallot, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/8 tsp salt; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tbsp sour cream; freshly ground black pepper
Peel celeriac with a sharp knife. Grate on large holes of box grater. Peel carrots and grate the same way. You’ll have about 4 generous cups. Mix minced garlic or shallot, vinegar, salt, and mustard in small bowl. Whisk in olive oil until smooth and thickened. Stir in sour cream and fresh ground pepper to taste. Add more salt if necessary. Pour over grated vegetables and toss gently. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes.
CELERY ROOT AU GRATIN *Try substituting potatoes for the celeriac needed
3lbs. celery root; salt; 1-1/2 cups cooking liquid; 1/2 cup butter; 6 tbs. flour; cayenne pepper; 1 cup (1/2 pt.) whipping cream; 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; dry mustard; 1/4 cup soft bread crumbs
Peel and dice celery root. Put cubes in water with a little lemon juice added to prevent darkening. When ready to cook, drain and place in saucepan with enough water to cover and a little salt. Bring to boil. Cook about 20 minutes, or until barely tender. Strain cooking liquid and reserve 1-1/2 cups. Drain cooked celery root very well. Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a saucepan. Remove pan from heat and stir in flour. Add salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Combine cream and reserved liquid. Blend with butter and flour. Return to heat and stir until sauce boils. Add 1/2 cup cheese and a pinch of mustard. Stir over medium heat 2 minutes. Remove from heat and add celery root. Mix well and turn into a large flat casserole. Sprinkle heavily with crumbs, remaining cheese and butter. Bake in 350°F oven 30 minutes. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from the Fresh Vegetable Cookbook.
CELERY ROOT AND WILD RICE CHOWDER
1/2 cup wild rice; 1 celery root (about 1 pound); 2 large leeks, white parts only; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 celery rib, diced; 1 cup thinly sliced russet potato; 1/4 cup chopped parsley, plus extra for garnish; 1 bay leaf; 1 large thyme sprig; sea salt and freshly ground pepper; 2 cups Vegetable Stock, chicken stock, or water; 2 cups half-and-half or milk truffle oil, optional
Cover the wild rice with 5 cups water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes or until tender. Thickly cut away the celery root skins, then quarter and chop the root into bite-sized pieces. You should have about 3 cups. Chop and wash the leeks. Melt the butter in a soup pot. Add the vegetables, parsley, bay leaf, thyme, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, then add the stock. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes. Add the half-and-half and simmer until the vegetables are tender. Taste for salt and season with pepper. To give the soup a creamy background, puree a cup of the vegetables and return them to the pot. If the soup is too thick, thin it with some of the rice water or additional stock. Divide the soup among 4 or 6 bowls and then add a mound of the wild rice to each. Garnish each bowl with parsley and a drop of truffle oil, if using, and serve. Serves 4-6 Recipe from: Local Flavors.
ROASTED CELERY ROOT AND APPLE WITH PORK
1 1/4 # celery root, peeled and cut into 2-inch sticks, 3 T vegetable oil, 1 1/8 teaspoons salt, 2 firm sweet apples (such as Braeburn or Honeycrisp), cored and cut into 8 wedges, 4 bone-in pork chops (about 2 lbs.), 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper, 2 T AP flour, 1 C unsalted chicken broth, 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
Heat oven to 425 degrees. On one side of a rimmed baking sheet, toss celery root with 1/2 tbsp oil and 1/2 tsp salt. On a sheet of foil, toss apple wedges with 1/2 tbsp oil and 1/4 tsp salt. Roast celery root 15 min. Remove from oven, add foil with apples to baking sheet and roast 10 min more. Meanwhile, pat pork dry. Sprinkle all over with 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper. Working in 2 batches, heat 1 tbsp oil per batch in a large stainless-steel skillet over high. Add pork and cook, turning once, 7 to 8 min, until golden brown and temp reaches 140 degrees. Transfer to a plate to rest 5 min. Return skillet to stovetop over low heat. Carefully whisk in flour, then broth, stirring to scrape up browned bits. Stir in thyme and 1/8 tsp salt. Taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve pork with celery root, apples and gravy. Adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in cooked pasta.
Recipe from Bettycrocker.com
CURRIED CELERIAC SLAW WITH DRIED CHERRIES
½ cup dried tart cherries, ½ cup finely chopped red onion, 3 Tbsp plain yogurt, 3 Tbsp sour cream, 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp curry powder, 1 tsp olive oil, ½ tsp sugar, ½ tsp salt, 3 cups shredded, peeled celeriac
Combine all ingredients except for the celeriac in a large bowl, stirring well to combine. Add the celeriac; toss well to coat. Cover and chill for 2 hours before serving.
Yield: 4 servings Recipe borrowed from Cooking Light Annual Recipes from 2003
LEEKS AU GRATIN
1 lb. leeks; 2-1/2 T butter; 1 T flour; 6 T milk, 1/2 T white wine; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
Cut white and tender portion of green leek leaves lengthwise and then into 1- inch pieces. Boil until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain; place in a buttered casserole. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 T butter; stir in flour. Whisk in milk and wine. Stir and cook until thickened, 3-5 minutes. Add nutmeg, salt and pepper; pour over leeks. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 400 degrees 15-20 minutes or until bubbly. Dot with remaining butter and brown under broiler, 3-5 minutes. 8 servings.
COCK-A-LEEKIE SOUP
1 1/2-pound whole chicken, rinsed and quartered; 1 quart chicken stock; 1 bay leaf; 5 peppercorns; 2 whole cloves; 2 1/2 cups chopped leeks; 1/2 cup chopped carrots; 1/4 cup pearl barley; 2 tbsp chopped parsley; 1/4 cup chopped prunes (optional); salt and pepper
Place chicken in large pot with 1 quart water; add stock, bay leaf, peppercorns, and cloves. Bring to low boil, skimming as needed. Reduce to low simmer and cook about 1 1/2 hours, skimming as needed. Remove chicken; let cool. Remove any fat floating on stock, then strain through a very fine mesh colander lined with cheesecloth. Clean out soup pot and return stock to it. Add leeks and carrots, bring to boil, and add barley. Simmer until barley is cooked, about 35 minutes. Meanwhile, remove skin and bones from chicken; shred the meat. When barley is cooked, stir in chicken, parsley, and prunes, if using. Heat through. Season to taste. Makes 3-4 servings. Recipe from MACSAC
EASY VICHYSSOISE
3 medium white potatoes. peeled and sliced; 4 medium leeks, sliced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup light cream or half-and-half; 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Combine potatoes, leeks, and chicken broth in large saucepan. Cover. Simmer until tender. Process in blender until smooth. Cool. Add ‘salt and cream. Stir and serve, sprinkled with chopped chives.
Serves 4. Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.
WINTER SQUASH, LEEK AND SAFFRON RISOTTO
5-6 c. chicken stock; ½ t. saffron threads, pulverized; 3 T olive oil; ½-1 c. chopped leeks (white and pale green sections only, 1 1/2 c. Arborio rice; 2/3 c. dry white wine; 2-3 C. cooked, pureed winter squash; ¾-1 c. grated parmesan, Romano, or asiago cheese
Bring stock and saffron to a simmer is saucepan. Heat olive oil in large, heavy saucepan. Add leeks; cook over medium-low heat until softened, several minutes. Raise heat to medium high and stir in rice. Keep stirring rice 1-2 minutes, then add wine. Stir and cook until nearly all the wine has evaporated, about 2 minutes. Add two ladleful’s hot stock (enough to barely cover the rice.); stir frequently until most is absorbed. Risotto is done when rice is barely tender and mixture is creamy; this should take 25-35 minutes. (Adjust heat if rice is absorbing liquid too quickly). Stir in squash during last 10 minutes. Fold in most of the grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, with a little more cheese on top of each swerving.
Makes 6-8 servings.
REDBOR KALE WITH RED BEANS, CILANTRO, AND FETA CHEESE
1 1/2 cups dried red kidney beans, soaked for 4 hours or overnight; 2 bay leaves; 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves; sea salt; 1 white onion, finely diced; 1 large bunch kale; 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra to finish; 3/4 cup chopped cilantro; 3 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
Drain the beans, cover them with plenty of cold water, and bring to a boil. Remove any scum that rises to the surface, then add the herbs, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and all but 1/2 cup of the onion. Lower the heat and simmer until tender, about 1 ½ hours. Slice the kale leaves from their stems with a knife. Chop coarsely into 1- or 2-inch pieces and rinse well. Bring a few quarts water to a boil; add salt and the kale. Simmer until tender, 5 to 7 minutes, then pour into a colander to drain. Heat the oil in a wide skillet. Add the remaining 1/2 cup onion and 1/2 cup of the cilantro. Cook over medium heat until the onion has softened, about 10 minutes, then add the kale and the beans with enough of the cooking liquid so that there’s plenty of sauce. Simmer together for at least 10 minutes, then serve garnished with crumbled feta cheese and the remaining cilantro. Serves 4 Recipe from Local Flavors.
KALE AND POTATO TARRAGON SALAD
2 pounds small potatoes, scrubbed, 7 T. olive oil, 1 medium onion, diced, 1 bunch kale, large stems removed, leaves chopped into 1 in. pieces, 1 clove garlic, minced, 2 T. lemon juice, 1/4-1/2 t. tarragon, divided, salt and pepper to taste
Steam or boil potatoes until fork tender. Drain, cut into large bite sized pieces, place in large bowl, and cover to keep warm. Meanwhile, heat 1 T. olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add onions; sauté until translucent. Add kale and garlic; cook until kale is tender, about 5 minutes more (you can cover pan to help wilt kale). Combine vinegar, lemon juice, ¼ t. dried tarragon, remaining 6 T. olive oil, and salt and pepper. Add kale mixture to potatoes and pour dressing over everything. (It’s important to toss the dressing while the mixture is hot, to soak in the flavors.) Add more salt and pepper, or tarragon if necessary. Serve warm or at room temperature. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from Jenny Bonde and Rick DaVee, Shooting Star Farm
SESAME KALE SALAD
1# fresh kale, 2T soy sauce, 2T toasted sesame oil, 1T toasted sesame seeds, 1 clove garlic, 2 t honey or other sweetener, 1T apple cider vinegar, dash of black or red ground pepper to taste.
Separate kale leaves from stems. Chop stems and greens. Steam stems a couple of minutes, then add the greens and steam until just tender. Drain; let kale cool enough to handle it. Squeeze out as much water as possible. Place in a serving bowl. Mix the remaining ingredients in another bowl; add to greens. Mix, chill, and serve. Adapted from the Extending the Table; A World Community Cookbook, by Joetta Hendrich Schlabach.
KALE SALAD WITH POMEGRANATE AND MAPLE PECANS
Salad: 12 oz Tuscan kale, deveined and sliced into ½ in. ribbons (8c.), 1 large red apple, cored, quartered, and thinly sliced (1+1/4 c), ½ pomegranate seeds, 1+1/2 OZ. Gouda, thinly shaved with vegetable peeler. To assemble salad: place kale in large bowl; gently massage 3 T vinaigrette into leaves to ensure even coverage. Gently toss with apple and pomegranate seeds, and transfer to serving bowl. Top with maple pecans and shaved Gouda.
Maple pecans: ½ c. pecan pieces, 1T maple syrup, 2 t. olive oil, ½ t. salt, ¼ t. cayenne pepper. Preheat oven to 350o. Combine all ingredients in small bowl, and toss until well coated. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 12 minutes, or until toasted and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Let cool to room temperature.
Vinaigrette: 2T. Balsamic vinegar, 2T olive oil, 1 small shallot, peeled and finely minced (1+1/2 T.) To make vinaigrette: whisk together ingredients, and season with salt and pepper, if desired.
WARM BAVARIAN-STYLE POTATO SALAD WITH SAUSAGE
2 # Yukon Gold or large fingerling potatoes, scrubbed; 2 T apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar; 1T prepared hot mustard; 3/4 cup chopped onion; salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup apple cider or chicken stock; 3/4 # pork sausage links; 3 T olive oil; 3 T coarsely chopped fresh parsley
Cook potatoes in salted water until barely tender. Drain, cool slightly, peel, and slice 1/3-inch thick. Meanwhile, make sauce: Combine remaining ingredients (except parsley) in saucepan, bring to simmer, and cook 5-7 minutes. Gently toss with potatoes. Heat oven to 450 degrees. Arrange sausages on baking sheet; bake 8-10 minutes. Cut each link into 4 pieces. Add sausages and parsley to potatoes; mix gently. Season with salt and pepper. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from MACSAC
SMASHED YUKON GOLD POTATOES WITH BLUE CHEESE AND TOASTED NUTS
2 pounds young Yukon Gold potatoes (unpeeled); 4 tablespoons butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk or cream; salt and pepper; 1/2 # blue cheese, crumbled; 1/4-pound (about 1 cup) nuts
Cook potatoes and place in large bowl. Add butter, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper (or to taste). Smash with fork, leaving some large pieces. Lightly toss in blue cheese. Sprinkle with nuts. Makes 6 servings.
SPICY POTATO, SAUSAGE AND GREENS SOUP 1 # bulk hot Italian sausage; 1/2 cup chopped onion, or more to taste; 4 cups chicken broth; 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (slice them with skins on); 4 cups water; 2 packed cups torn or chopped fresh greens; 1/3 cup whipping cream; salt and pepper
Heat soup pot over medium flame. Add sausage and onions and cook until meat is no longer pink. Add broth, potatoes, and 4 cups water. Bring to boil, reduce heat, and simmer until potatoes are tender, 10-15 minutes. Stir in greens; cook 1-2 minutes. Stir in whipping cream and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve right away, or, for more developed flavor, let cool, then chill and reheat later or the next day. This recipe was inspired by a soup at Olive Garden restaurant. Add some buttered biscuits and it’s a perfect winter meal. Makes 8-12 servings. Recipe from JoAnn Hoffman, Vermont Valley Farm member
CABOT CHEDDAR MASHED POTATOES
2 pounds potatoes; 1/2 cup butter, plus more as needed; 3/4 cup whole milk, heated; 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated; Nutmeg; Salt and freshly ground white pepper
Peel and dice the potatoes. Cover with cold, salted water in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until potatoes are just fork tender. Drain thoroughly, and place in a large bowl with the butter, milk, and cheese, and add nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash with an old-fashioned masher or handheld mixer, mixing thoroughly until desired consistency is reached. Additional butter and milk may be added to taste. Makes 4 servings
ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Peel and cube one butternut squash. Add 1-2 Tbsp olive oil to coat. Put squash on a baking sheet and roast until tender, about 30 minutes. This is also a great cooking method for potatoes, carrots, rutabagas and garlic.
PENNE ALIA ZUCCO (ROMAN PASTA WITH PUMPKIN SAUCE)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 2 onions, finely chopped; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg; 4 cups peeled and chopped winter squash or pumpkin flesh; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage; 1 # penne pasta or gnocchi; 1 garlic clove; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan; 1/4 tsp crushed red Chile pepper
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium flame; add onions and cook, stirring often, until very soft and translucent. Meanwhile, in a food processor fitted with a knife blade, pulse the squash and garlic together in 2 batches until very fine. Add to onions with Chile, salt, nutmeg, and 1 cup water. Cover and simmer until squash is soft and of a sauce like consistency, 10-20 minutes. Stir in sage. Cook pasta in lots of boiling, salted water until just tender. Strain, reserving 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid. Add pasta to hot sauce in pan, stir, and cook over high heat, adding cooking liquid, if necessary, until pasta is coated. Stir in Parmesan and serve. Makes 4-6 servings. Recipe from Leah Coplon, The Washington Hotel
CREAM CHEESE PUMPKIN SQUARES
1 cup flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 5 tbsp butter; 8 oz cream cheese; 1/3 cup sugar; 1/2 cup pumpkin, 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla, 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp allspice
Blend flour, brown sugar and butter into small crumbs. Set aside1/2 cup for topping; place remainder in 8×8 inch pan and bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Cream together cream cheese and sugar, bend in pumpkin and eggs and beat until smooth. Add vanilla and spices. Pour over baked bottom and sprinkle crumbs on top. Bake for another 35 minutes at 350 degrees.
EASY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
2 T butter or olive oil, 3-4 cloves garlic, mashed with side of thick knife, 1/2-1 C chopped onion, 2 1/2-3 lbs. butternut squash, halved, seeded, and baked until soft, 4 C chicken stock or 2 bouillon cubes dissolved in 4 cups hot water, 1 bay leaf, pinch of sugar, 1/2 t or more curry powder, pinch of nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste, 2 cups milk (low-fat or skim)
Heat butter or olive oil in large saucepan over medium flame. Add garlic and onions; cook, stirring often, 7-10 minutes. Puree the cooked squash in a food processor and stir into onion mixture. Stir in stock, bay leaf, sugar, curry powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer 20-30 minutes. Remove bay leaf. Add the milk; heat but don’t boil. This is adapted from The Complete Book of Soups and Stews, by Bernard Clayton.
Serves 6; Recipe from Linda Taylor, Good Earth Farm
PUMPKIN PIE
3 cups pumpkin or butternut squash, well pureed; 1 cup light brown; 1 cup white sugar; 2 tbsp. molasses;
4 eggs. slightly beaten; 1/4 tsp. cloves; 1 tsp. salt; 1 tbsp. cinnamon; ½ tbsp. ginger; 2 cups milk or 1 can evaporated milk plus milk or cream to total 2 cups
Mix ingredients in order given. Pour into 2 unbaked pie shells. Bake at 350 for 1 hour.
Recipe from Joyce Noble I decrease sugars to 1+1/2 total
WINTER SQUASH WITH CRANBERRIES
1 small winter squash, 1-3 teaspoons butter or olive oil, 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen), 2-3 tablespoons raspberry jam or puree
Peel winter squash, chop flesh into 1/2- to 1-inch cubes, and steam over boiling water until soft but not mushy. Heat butter or olive oil in heavy skillet over medium flame. Toss in cranberries and stir frequently until they soften. Mash in skillet with fork or potato masher. Stir in jam. When squash is done, toss it with the cranberry mixture, Makes 4-8 servings. Recipe from Linda Taylor, Good Earth Farm
ROASTED WINTER SQUASH SEEDS
Cut squash in half. Scoop seeds and “guts” from squash(s). Use your fingers to separate the seeds from the goopy flesh. Put seeds in a large bowl. Cover seeds with cool water and swish around. Pull off any bits of squash still clinging to the seeds. Preheat oven to 400°F. Drain squash seeds and shake off any excess water. Spread on a clean kitchen towels or layer of paper towels and dry thoroughly. Put seeds in a bowl and toss with about 1 tsp. vegetable oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, or seasoned salt, if you like, and toss to coat thoroughly. Spread seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast until golden and crispy, about 15 minutes. Let cool at least slightly and serve warm or at room temperature.
CHILI-BROWN SUGAR DELICATA SQUASH WITH PEARS
1-pound Delicata squash (about 1 large); 2 medium ripe but firm pears, sliced; 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 2 slices bacon; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon chili powder
Preheat oven to 425°F. Cut squash in half lengthwise; scoop out the seeds. Cut crosswise into Y4-inch slices. Toss in a large bowl with pears, oil, salt and pepper. Spread on a large baking sheet. Roast the squash and pears until just tender, stirring once or twice, 20 to 25 minutes. .4. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crisp, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. 5. Discard all but 2 teaspoons fat from the pan. Over medium heat, stir in water, brown sugar and chili powder. Add the squash and pears; toss to coat. Crumble the bacon on top. Makes: 4 servings
DELICATA SQUASH WITH ORANGE & PISTACHIOS
1-pound Delicata squash (about 1 large); 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 2 shallots, halved and sliced; 1 teaspoon orange zest; 31/4 cup orange juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped salted pistachios
Cut squash in half lengthwise; scoop out the seeds. Thinly slice crosswise. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and cook, stirring, until softened and beginning to brown, about 2 minutes. Add the squash, orange zest and juice, salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and cook, stirring once, until the squash is almost tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the squash is tender and beginning to brown, 12 to 15 minutes more. Serve sprinkled with pistachios. MAKES: 4 servings, about 1 cup each
CRANBERRY-APRICOT DELICATA SQUASH
1-pound Delicata squash (about 1 large); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider or apple juice; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives; 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds
Cut squash in quarters lengthwise; scoop out the seeds. Very thinly slice crosswise. Bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a sauce pan fitted with a steamer basket. Steam the squash until just tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Whisk oil, cider (or juice), salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add the squash, apricots cranberries and chives; toss to coat. Serve sprinkled with almonds. Makes 4 servings
CHARLEMAGNE SALAD WITH HOT BRIE DRESSING
Salad greens; 1/4 cup white wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; garlic croutons; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup olive oil; 4-5 ounces ripe brie, rind removed, cheese cut, or cheese of your choice; 2 teaspoons minced shallots or green onions into small pieces and brought to room temperature; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; freshly ground pepper
Clean the greens; dry them in a salad spinner or kitchen towels. Tear greens into bite-size pieces and toss with garlic croutons in a large bowl. Warm oil in a heavy skillet. Add shallots or onions and garlic and cook until golden, 3-5 minutes. Blend in vinegar, lemon juice, and mustard. Add the cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly. Toss the hot dressing with the greens and croutons. Serve immediately with freshly ground pepper. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from Matthew and Susan Smith, Blue Valley Gardens
CASHEW SALAD
3 c mixture of three kinds of lettuce, such as red leaf, romaine and Boston, washed and torn into bite-size pieces; 1/2 c cashews
For dressing: 1/4 small red onion, grated; 1/8 c vinegar; 1/4 c sugar; pinch of ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp celery seed; 1 tsp prepared mustard; 3/8 c olive oil
Toss lettuce with cashews. Place onion, vinegar, sugar, pepper, celery seed, mustard and oil in jar with tight lid. Shake vigorously to emulsify, or blend in blender. When ready to serve, toss salad with half the dressing, then add more, to taste, or serve dressing on side. Makes about 3 servings
FIELD GREENS WITH CANDIED APPLES, ROASTED WALNUTS AND APPLE VINAIGRETTE
1 cup cider; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup hazelnut or walnut oil; 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives, or to taste; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup walnut halves; 1 tablespoon sugar, or to taste; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 3 crisp apples, such as Gala or Cortland, peeled, halved, cored, and cut lengthwise into 1/8 thick slices; 12-oz field greens; 1 cup crumbled blue cheese or Gorgonzola
Bring apple cider to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Lower heat and simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until juice is reduced by half and appears slightly syrupy. Remove from burner, set aside to cool. Once cooled, vigorously whisk in vinegar, oil, chives, and salt and pepper to taste. Preheat oven to 350 F. Place walnuts on a baking sheet and toast stirring frequently, until crisp and lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Coarsely chop walnuts. Meanwhile, melt sugar in a heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until it just begins to turn golden and melt. Carefully add oil and then apples. Sauté apples, stirring constantly, until they are slightly soft but still crisp. Remove from pan and transfer to a plate until you are ready to use, place greens in a large bowl and drizzle with the vinaigrette, lightly coating all ingredients. Add the walnuts, candied apples, and cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle additional vinaigrette over the top to taste, and serve at once. 6-8 Servings Recipe from Champlain Orchards.