Summer Share Ten July 23rd 2024

Important information:

• This is an even biweekly distribution for the farm and city sites.
• Get ready! Winter share enrollment will start soon- watch for email for information.

Farm News from Jane
I hope that everyone had a chance to enjoy the full Buck moon or Thunder moon as it is called either rising or setting. The July full “Buck” moon was named by the Algonquin tribes of Northeastern United States because this is when the bucks begin to get their new antlers. It is also known as the Thunder moon because it corresponds to the rain storms that are frequent in July. And yes, we certainly did have those severe thunder and windstorms last week. We lost a few large portions of Grandpa Jack’s Pin Oak trees which were planted over fifty years ago. The neighbors have even older trees of which one split and landed on the power and cable lines. Thank goodness for a generator so we could finish cleaning and sorting the beans. Those wonderful firemen (people) were on the scene almost faster than you could blink an eye!  Aren’t we so blessed with those dedicated men and women who serve our communities on their own time and at their own expense? Thank you each and every one!
And how about that sweet corn? Although Tuesday’s corn kernels were a bit young, it was still sweet and tasty. And the ears were so long, well-filled and so delicious! Raw, roasted, boiled or baked; this the season… The tomatoes are coming in strong now in the high tunnels; both cherry and saladette. A few more weeks and we will have larger sandwich tomatoes as well. We continue to “pull” onions one variety at a time. Although the Walla Walla onion variety did not fare well, the Spanish variety called Expression which we harvested today look great. Each variety is unique and enjoys different growing conditions. Our cucumber plantings have not fared well so there will be no cucumbers for shares this year. Last year was one of our best cucumber seasons ever. How interesting that weather and pests can have such dramatic effects from one year to the next… The peppers are sizing up in the field but the high tunnel peppers which are what we are currently harvesting have a jump on the season with their near perfect “indoor” environment; regular watering, weeding and TLC! We continue to plant crucifer seedlings; Brussel sprouts, cauliflowers, Romanesco, cabbages and broccoli. Believe it or not we will begin seeding spinach for winter high tunnel cultivation and harvest soon. How quickly we move into the next season, preparing ahead; seeding and transplanting for the next season. Winter share enrollment is just around the corner so be thinking ahead if you’d like to enjoy great veggies all winter and spring as well. We have fresh greens in most weeks of the winter shares, freshly harvested from the high tunnels. Enjoy the bounty, the flavors and the freshness. Food for thought!
Blessings from our farm to your table, Jane

Produce:   Tomatoes   Summer Squash   Sweet corn   Cubanelle peppers   Walla Walla onions
Garlic   Dragon Tongue beans   red Beets   Carrots   Tuesday: Cubanelle peppers   Thursday: Bell peppers

Produce tips:
– Peppers; either bell or Cubanelle which are a sweet Italian frying pepper. Use interchangeably in recipes.
– Dragon tongue beans are a variety of broad beans which can be allowed to grow until they have a mature bean inside offering more protein This planting however needed to be harvested early because the yellow beans next to them are also ready for harvest, The Dragon tongues were hand picked because the culture of the bean plant doesn’t fit the mechanized harvester. Enjoy; fresh or prepared- a very tasty bean.

Fruit:   Peaches   &   Nectarines
Fruit tips:  Always remove fruit from plastic bags.  Both peaches and nectarines will need some ripening time. Leave out at room temperature; to hasten ripening you can place some in a paper bag. Watch closely each day to ascertain ripeness. Refrigerate. Wash before eating. Substitute nectarines for peaches in recipes.

Recipes
COLORFUL CORN
1/4 cup butter; 3 cup corn, cut from cob; 1/2 cup chopped green pepper; ½ cup chopped pimiento; 1/2 C  sliced, stuffed green olives; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 2 tbsp chopped onion; 1/4 cup flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 2 cup milk; 3 eggs, slightly beaten; 1 cup shredded cheese
Melt butter in skillet. Add corn, green pepper, pimiento, olives, parsley and onion. Cook 2 minutes, stirring. Cover and simmer over low heat 10 minutes. Blend in flour, salt and pepper. Add milk and cook, stirring, until thickened. Gradually stir hot vegetable mixture into eggs. Stir in cheese. Turn into greased 2-qt. casserole. Set casserole in pan of water and bake in moderate oven (350°) 45 to 50 minutes, or until set. Makes 8 servings.

BAKED CORN WITH ONIONS
4 cups fresh corn kernels; 2 cups thinly sliced onions; 1 teaspoon curry powder; salt and pepper to taste;
1/4 # (1 stick) butter; l/2 cup heavy cream
Alternate corn and onions in layers in a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle with curry powder and salt and pepper. Cut butter in slices over the top. Pour on cream. Bake at 375 for 35-45 minutes, or until top is browned.
Serves 4-6.

CHEESE TORTELLINI WITH TOMATOES AND CORN
1 pkg. (9oz.) refrigerated cheese tortellini, 3 ½ c. fresh corn or 1lb. frozen, 2 cups cherry tomatoes; quartered, ¼ c. thinly sliced green onions, ¼ c. minced fresh basil, 2T. grated Parmesan cheese, 4 t. olive oil, ¼ t. garlic powder, 1/8 t. pepper.
In a Dutch oven, cook tortellini according to pkg directions, adding the corn during the last five minutes of cooking. Drain and rinse in cold water. In a large serving bowl, combine tortellini mixture and remaining ingredients; toss to coat.

FRESH SWEET CORN SALSA
4 ears corn, 4 tomatoes medium sized; seeded and diced, 1 medium onion; diced, 3 jalapenos, seeded and diced fine, 1 lime juiced, ½ tsp. garlic powder (or 1 fresh clove), 2 tsp. salt, ¼ cup cilantro
Corn may be used raw or cooked. Cut from cob and place in mixing bowl. Dice the tomato, onion and jalapenos. Mix with the corn and add in lime juice, salt, and garlic. Chop cilantro and mix in. Can be served fresh or refrigerate until ready to serve. 15 servings.

FRESH CORN CAKES
Makes about 9 to 10 4-inch pancakes
2T butter, plus additional for brushing pan 3/4 C kernels cut from one large ear sweet fresh corn, 1/8 tsp salt plus additional for seasoning com 1 large egg, 1 1/4 C buttermilk 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, 1T sugar, 3/4 C all-purpose flour, 1/4 C cornmeal; any kind,1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda
Melt butter in a large cast iron skillet or griddle pan over medium heat. Add com and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, until it begins to brown ever-so-slightly. Sprinkle with salt and set aside to cool. Wipe out skillet. Lightly beat egg in the bottom of a large bowl, then whisk in buttermilk, com, vanilla and sugar. In a smaller bowl, whisk flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir dry ingredients into wet, mixing until just combined but still lumpy in appearance. Reheat your skillet or sauté pan to medium. Brush the pan with butter and ladle 1/4 cup batter at a time, 2 inches apart. When the pancakes have bubbles on top and are slightly dry around the edges, flip them over and cook them until golden brown underneath. If they seem to be cooking too quickly (dark on the outside, raw centers) turn your heat down to low for the next batch and inch it up as needed. Repeat with remaining batter, and serve immediately with a pat of salted butter and a healthy dose of maple syrup.

CROCK POT CHICKEN PHILLY CHEESE STEAK
1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breasts, 2 tbsp butter, 1 large onion (sliced), 2 green peppers (thinly sliced), 6 slices reduced fat provolone cheese, 2 garlic cloves (chopped), 2 tbsp steak seasoning, 6 small rolls (I used Trader Joe’s Artisan Rolls), Salt and pepper to taste
Slice chicken into thin strips. Toss in a bowl with salt, pepper, and steak seasoning. Place butter in crock pot. Place onions and green peppers on top, then add in the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Divide chicken, onions and peppers evenly amongst rolls. Top with a slice of provolone cheese and place in toaster oven for about 2 minutes on toast setting to melt cheese. Serve immediately.
Recipe from: https://www.laaloosh.com/2013/05/14/crock-pot-chicken-philly-cheese-steak-recipe/

ROASTED CHEESE-STUFFED GREEN PEPPERS
sweet peppers; low-fat cheese
Using tongs or long-handled fork, hold whole pepper over open flame, turning occasionally, until skin blisters all around. Cool and peel off skin. Open pepper from top carefully; remove seeds and core. Fill with low-fat cheese, and pop in low oven until cheese melts and conforms to shape of pepper. Chill overnight. Slice pepper; serve with other vegetables or use in a sandwich. Makes any number of servings.

ROASTED PEPPER RISOTTO
2 large bell peppers; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill; juice of 2 small lemons; 8-9 cups vegetable stock; 3 tablespoons olive oil; about 2 1/2 cups Arborio rice; 1/2 cup dry white wine
Heat oven to broiling temperature. Place peppers on baking sheet. Broil close to heating element, using tongs-to turn peppers to char skin evenly on all sides. Remove from oven, place in paper bag, and close bag. Let peppers stand while you chop onion and dill and juice lemons. Remove peppers from bag; peel off charred skin, remove stem and seeds (don’t rinse them, as this will weaken the flavor), and cut into small strips. Heat stock in saucepan over medium-low flame. Heat oil in large saucepan over medium flame. Add onions; cook until soft. Stir in rice with wooden spoon until all grains are evenly coated. Add dill, stir 1 minute, then add wine and stir until wine is absorbed. Add 1 cup stock; stir until stock is absorbed. Continue cooking, stirring, and adding 1 cup of stock at a time until the rice is al dente and suspended in a smooth sauce, 15-25 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and red peppers. Makes 6-8 servings. Recipe from Amy Simonson

HOW SWEET IT IS CORN AND PEPPER SALAD
4 ears sweet com; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 2 tablespoons slivered basil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 cup olive oil; salt and pepper
Husk com and boil or grill until crisp-tender. Cool and slice off the kernels. Place com in bowl with sweet peppers, onions; and basil. Whisk balsamic vinegar and mustard in a small bowl, then slowly whisk in olive oil a little at a time. Toss with the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Makes 4 servings.

CHILI CHEDDAR SAGE CORN BREAD
1 cup oil; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 6 eggs; 1 can creamed com, or 2 cups corn with cream sauce; 1/3 cup hot peppers; 1/2 cup milk; 4 cups yellow cornmeal; 2 cups flour; 1 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage; 1 teaspoon salt
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a very large, heavy baking pan. Combine first 6 ingredients in large bowl. Combine last 6 ingredients in another bowl. Stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined (don’t over mix). Spread batter in pan. Bake until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean, 30-35 minutes. Makes 24 servings. Recipe from MACSAC

LEMON-PEPPER LINGUINE WITH SQUASH
1 pound whole-wheat spaghetti, 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1½ tablespoons black peppercorns, coarsely ground, 1 pound thin zucchini, trimmed and very thinly sliced lengthwise, 8 ounces thin yellow squash, trimmed and very thinly sliced lengthwise, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 cup packed soft fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, chives and/or basil, coarsely chopped, ½ cup finely grated Cacio de Roma or Manchego cheese, plus more for serving, 2 tablespoons lemon zest, 3 T lemon juice
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add spaghetti and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions. Reserve ¾ cup of the cooking water, then drain. Return the pasta to the pot. Meanwhile, heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add zucchini, squash and salt. Cook, gently stirring occasionally, until just softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the zucchini and squash to the pot with the pasta. Add the reserved pasta water, herbs, cheese, lemon zest and juice. Stir gently to combine. Serve with more cheese, if desired. Recipe form Eatingwell.com

CURRIED ZUCCHINI SOUP
1 t olive oil, 11/2 C chopped onion, 4# zucchini, 1T dried thyme; crushed4 C chicken stock, 1 C heavy cream, 2 tsp. curry powder, ¼ C melted butter, ¼ C all-purpose flour, homemade croutons
In a 6 qt. Dutch oven heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, cook 4-5 minutes or until tender. Add zucchini and thyme; cook, covered, 12 minutes or until zucchini is softened, stirring occasionally. Add stock, cream, and curry powder. Bring to a boil. In a small bowl combine melted butter and flour; stir into soup. Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, 15 minutes or until zucchini is tender, stirring occasionally. Let cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, blend soup until creamy. Or, working in batches, blend soup in a food processor or blender. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Top with croutons.
Recipe from Better Homes & Gardens August 2018

CHICKEN ZUCCHINI MEATBALLS
1 C finely shredded zucchini, 1# ground chicken, 1 egg, lightly beaten, ½ C panko, ½ C grated parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, 1 T chopped fresh parsley, 2 tsp. dried basil, crushed, ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes
Preheat oven to 350. Line a 15×10 inch baking pan with foil; coat with non-stick cooking spray. Line a colander with paper towels; add zucchini. Sprinkle ½ tsp salt over zucchini. Let stand 20 minutes, pressing occasi0nally to remove moisture. In a large bowl combine zucchini, chicken, egg, panko, cheese, garlic, parsley, basil, red pepper, and ¼ tsp salt. Shape rounded tablespoons of mixture into 20 meatballs, place in prepared pan. Bake 25 minutes or until cooked through.  Recipe from Better Homes & Gardens August 2018

CHILLED YELLOW SQUASH SOUP WITH DILL
2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 lbs. yellow summer squash, halved, seeded, and sliced, 1 onion, chopped, 2 qts. Vegetable broth, 4 oz. plain yogurt, salt and pepper to taste, ½ tsp. lemon juice, or to taste, 2 T minced dill
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and cook onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add yellow squash. Cook and stir until starting to soften, about 5 minutes. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until soft, about 20 minutes. Puree soup using a stick blender until smooth. Let cool to lukewarm. Stir in yogurt and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir in dill and chill in the refrigerator at least 4 hours. Serve chilled
Recipe from https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/267241/chilled-yellow-squash-soup-with-dill

MARINATED BEET AND SUMMER SQUASH SALAD
2 Medium-size beets, cooked, peeled and thinly sliced; 4 bunching onions, thinly sliced; 1/4 Cup olive oil; 3 Tbsp tarragon vinegar; 1/2 Tbsp sugar; 2 small yellow summer squash (or zucchini, or a combination), cut into 1/4-inch slices; 1 Tbsp minced dill; 3/4 Cup sour cream; Salt and black pepper; 2 Scallions, each with 3 inches green top, coarsely chopped
Directions: Toss together the beets and onions with 1/8 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons vinegar and 1/2 tablespoon sugar. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. In another bowl toss together the squash slices, the remainder of the oil and vinegar, and the dill. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Just prior to serving, drain the squash and toss all the vegetables together with the sour cream. Season to taste with salt and pepper, adding additional sugar and vinegar if desired for a more distinctive sweet-and-sour taste. YIELD: ENOUGH TO SERVE 3

QUICK BEET SALAD
¼ C sour cream, 1T horseradish, 1T chopped fresh dill, 2t olive plus 1T live oil divided, ¼ t ground pepper, 1/8 t salt, 1# precooked beets cut into ¼ “slices or wedges, 1t white wine vinegar
Combine sour cream, horse radish, dill, 2 t oil, pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Toss beets with vinegar and the remaining 1T oil. Serve the beets topped with the sauce. Recipe from Eating Well magazine

ROASTED BEET AND CARROT SALAD

1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons Sherry vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup plus 3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided, 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint, Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, 1 pound baby carrots with 1/2″ of tops attached, peeled, 6 small (1 1/2″ diameter) red beets, scrubbed, trimmed leaving 2″ of stem attached, 3/4 cup (lightly packed) flat-leaf parsley leaves, divided, 1/2 cup crumbled feta (about 4 ounces)

Stir cumin seeds in a small dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, 3-4 minutes. Let cool. Finely grind in a spice mill. Whisk cumin, lemon juice, vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a medium bowl. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup oil, then mint. Season vinaigrette with salt and pepper. Cook carrots in a large pot of boiling salted water for 1 minute; using a slotted spoon, transfer carrots to a bowl. Add beets to same pot of boiling water and cook until just tender, 20-25 minutes. Drain. Let stand at room temperature to cool slightly, about 15 minutes. Peel and trim beets; halve lengthwise. DO AHEAD: Vinaigrette and vegetables can be made 1 day ahead. Cover separately; chill. Return vinaigrette to room temperature and whisk before using.

Preheat oven to 450°F. Season carrots with salt and pepper. Toss with 1 1/2 teaspoons oil. Arrange on half of a large rimmed baking sheet. Place beets in same bowl; season with salt and pepper and toss with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil. Arrange in single layer opposite carrots on same baking sheet. Roast vegetables, turning once, until slightly charred and just tender, about 15 minutes. Place carrots, 1/2 cup parsley leaves, and feta in a medium bowl; drizzle 1/4 cup vinaigrette over and toss to coat. Arrange carrot mixture on a small platter. Place beets in another medium bowl. Add 2 tablespoons vinaigrette; toss to coat. Tuck beets in among carrots. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup parsley leaves over. Drizzle with remaining dressing. Recipe form Epicurious.com

 

SWEET AND SOUR BEETS IN WHITE WINE

1/3 c. plus 1 tbsp. cider vinegar, 1/3 c. water, 1/3 c. sugar, 1 1/2 tsp. cornstarch, Dash of ground cloves, 2 tbsp. dry white wine, 1/2 tsp. butter, 2 c. cooked, sliced beets

In a medium saucepan, combine the first 5 ingredients. Cook over a medium heat until the mixture thickens. Add beets, wine, butter and heat thoroughly. Remove from heat and let stand at least 30 minutes. Reheat just before serving. Recipe form Cook.com

BEET, GINGER, AND COCONUT MILK SOUP
1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 large yellow onion, diced, 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped, 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger, 3 large red beets, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch pieces, 5 cups vegetable stock, divided, 1 can (14.5 ounces) low-fat coconut milk, 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, Parsley (optional), Canned julienned beets (optional), Crusty bread
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring often, 5 minutes. Add beets and 4 cups stock; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until beets are fork-tender, 20 minutes. With an immersion or regular blender, puree soup, adding remaining 1 cup stock as needed to reach desired consistency. Stir in milk, salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and julienned beets and serve with bread, if desired. Recipe from http://www.epicurious.com

BEET & GOAT CHEESE HUMMUS
1 large beet, 1 can chickpeas, 2 lemons, 1/4 cup tahini paste, 1 teaspoon salt, 4 oz. crumbled goat cheese,
1/4 cup olive oil
First scrub the beet and chop into large cubes. Bake in aluminum foil or on a baking tray at 400°F until soft enough to pierce with a fork (about 25-30 minutes). Allow the beet to cool. In a food processor combine the beet (and any juices you were able to reserve), the rinsed *chickpeas, juice from two lemons, tahini paste, salt and goat cheese. Pulse until well blended. Now while the food processor is running, drizzle in the olive oil. Blend until smooth. Crumble a little more goat cheese on top for a pretty presentation. Recipe from simplyrecipes.com

AVOCADO BEET SALAD WITH CITRUS VINAIGRETTE
4 medium-sized beets (any color), green tops removed, beets scrubbed clean, 1 just ripe avocado, 4 ounces mixed green lettuces, 2 Tbsp pistachios, chopped
Citrus Vinaigrette:1 Tbsp minced shallot, 2 Tbsp rice vinegar (unseasoned), 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice,
1 Tbsp fresh orange juice, 2 tsp lemon zest, 1 tsp orange zest, A Pinch of salt, 1/3 c olive oil
Cook the beets: Place beets in a medium saucepan and cover with an inch of water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to maintain a low simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of the beets, until easily pierced with the tines of a fork. Make the vinaigrette: Whisk together the citrus vinaigrette ingredients in a small bowl. Toss the beets in vinaigrette: When the beets are done, drain them, and peel off the outer skin. Cut the beets in half, and the halves into wedges. (Tip: use a plastic cutting board when cutting red beets. Red beets will stain wooden cutting boards.) Place the beet wedges in a bowl and toss with a tablespoon of the vinaigrette. Cut and peel the avocado, cut the avocado into wedges. Arrange the salad: Toss the salad greens with a half of the citrus vinaigrette. Arrange the dressed greens on serving plates. Arrange the beet wedges and avocado wedges on top of the salad greens. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios. Drizzle remaining vinaigrette over the salads. Recipe from simplyrecipes.com

MOROCCAN GRATED CARROT AND BEET SALAD RECIPE
2 cups of grated carrots (from about 3 carrots), 1 C of grated fresh beets (from about 1 medium sized, peeled beet), 1/2 C golden raisins, 1/2 tsp paprika (sweet, not hot), /4 tsp ground cumin,

1/4 tsp cinnamon, small pinch of salt, small pinch of cayenne, 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 2 tsp honey, 2 Tbsp sliced fresh mint leaves

Place the grated carrots in a medium sized serving bowl. Place the grated beets into a sieve and briefly rinse with cold water. This will rinse away a little of the excess beet juice that may otherwise color the whole salad beet red.  Pat dry with a paper towel. Then add to the bowl with the carrots.  Add the raisins.  Stir to gently combine. In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne. Then add the lemon juice and honey and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over the carrots and beets, then gently fold until the carrots and beets are lightly coated.  Let sit for an hour before serving, either chilled or at room temperature, for the dressing to seep into the carrots and beets. Right before serving, stir in a couple tablespoons of sliced fresh mint leaves. Garnish with fresh mint. Recipe from simplyrecipes.com

ROASTED CARROT GREEN GODDESS SALAD
1 lb. carrots, peeled, 1 to 2T olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, 6 C butter lettuce greens, or whatever greens you have
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Peel the carrots and place them on the baking sheet. I like to keep them whole, but it depends on how large they are. If they are really big or thick carrots, slice them in half either lengthwise or width wise. Drizzle the carrots with the olive oil and toss week. Cover with the salt, pepper and garlic powder. Roast the carrots for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender. While the carrots are roasting, place the greens in a large bowl or plate. Toss them well with salt and pepper. Make the green goddess dressing and drizzle the greens with it, lightly tossing. Top with the roasted carrots. Add more green goddess if you’d like and serve.
Green goddess dressing: 1/2 avocado, 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt I like full fat or 2%, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 garlic cloves, 1/3 cup baby arugula or spinach greens, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, 1 tablespoon snipped chives, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, pinch of salt and pepper, pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender and blend until combined.

CARROT SALAD
1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf Italian parsley, 1 teaspoon, Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1 bag (10 ounces) shredded carrots, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1 small red onion, chopped, 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
Combine olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, mustard, salt and sugar in small bowl.
Combine carrots, cranberries, onion and almonds in large bowl. Add dressing. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours or overnight. Recipe courtesy Family Circle Magazine

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.

PRIZEWINNER GREEN BEANS WITH TOMATOES AND GARLIC
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1pound green beans, ends clipped, beans cut in half; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 sprig rosemary, leaves torn off the stem; about 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges; 1/2 cup sliced onions (peeling is optional); 2 teaspoons dried oregano; salt to taste or 2 tablespoons salted butter; 1/2 teaspoon dried ground thyme
Heat olive oil in deep pan over medium heat. Add garlic and pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant. Add onions; sauté until translucent, 3-5 minutes. Add 1/4 cup water, the dried spices, and green beans. Stir, cover, and steam-cook beans until nearly done, 10-15 minutes. Stir in the rosemary and tomatoes. Cook very briefly, until tomatoes are warmed through and beans are done. Season with salt, or, if you prefer, melt salted butter over the beans before serving. This recipe won a prize in the 2002 Food for Thought Recipe Contest in Madison, Wisconsin. Makes 4 servings. Recipe from Mora Rosenbloom

ROASTED BEANS
2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb. whole beans, trimmed; 1 cup thinly sliced onion; 10 to 12 garlic cloves, peeled; salt and pepper; 1 to 2 tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar; 1 cup lightly toasted pine nuts
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Brush a large cookie sheet with 2 tbsp olive oil. Spread the beans, onions and garlic cloves on the tray and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes, occasionally stirring or shaking the tray. Taste a bean to see if it is tender enough for you; cook for 5-10 minutes if still crisp. Remove from oven; transfer to a bowl. Drizzle with vinegar, and some black pepper if desired. Serve at any temperature topped with toasted pine nuts. Serves 6

BEAN & SUNFLOWER SEED SALAD
1 lb. fresh Romano or Dragon Tongue beans; 1/2 medium-size onion, minced; 1 small clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1/3 cup toasted sunflower seeds; freshly ground black pepper
Wash beans, remove ends and cut into I-inch lengths. Cook in as little water as possible until tender, but still firm. Combine beans with other ingredients except sunflower seeds. Chill. Serve chilled green beans on salad greens, topped with toasted sunflower seeds. *Toast sunflower seeds in heavy dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until brown. Yield: 4 to 6 servings

CHILLED BEANS WITH YOGURT AND MINT
1 lb. green beans, trimmed; l/4 tsp. salt; 1 1/2 tsp. dry mustard; 1 tbsp. fresh lime or lemon juice; 2 tbsp. chopped fresh mint; 1 small garlic clove, very finely chopped; 1/2 tsp. sugar; freshly ground black pepper; 1/3 cup plain low-fat yogurt; 1 tomato, cut into wedges
Pour enough water into a large saucepan to fill it about 1 inch deep. Set a vegetable steamer in the pan and bring the water to a boil. Add the beans, cover the pan tightly, and steam the beans until they are tender about six minutes. Remove the beans from the pan, and refresh them under cold running water to arrest their cooking and preserve their color. When the beans are cool, drain them thoroughly and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle the salt over the beans and toss well. In a bowl, stir together the dry mustard and the lime or lemon juice until a smooth paste is formed. Add the mint, garlic, sugar, pepper and yogurt, and blend well. Add the beans and toss to coat them. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. At serving time, garnish with the tomato wedges. Serves 6

SUPER GREEN BEANS
4 c. fresh green beans; 2 T. butter or bacon drippings; 1/2 tsp. salt; 2 tsp chives; 1/4 c. boiling water; 1/4 c. light cream; 1/8 tsp. pepper
Select tender green beans that snap easily. Wash, trim off ends and remove any strings. Place in bundles on cutting board and cut in 1″ pieces. Heat butter in electric skillet or heavy saucepan with tight-fitting lid; add beans, salt, basil and boiling water. Cover; cook on high heat until steam is produced, then turn as low as possible and cook 25 to 30 minutes, shaking pan occasionally and watching at the last to be sure beans do not burn (they should be barely tender). • Add cream and pepper; serve at once. Makes about 4 servings.

MUSTARD BUTTERED BEANS
1 lb. cooked beans; 1 tbsp butter; 2 tsp prepared mustard; 1 tsp sugar; 1/4 tsp. salt; 1 tsp lemon juice
Combine ¼ cup water, butter, mustard, sugar, salt and lemon juice; heat. Add drained beans; mix lightly and heat. Makes 4 servings.

GERMAN GREEN BEANS
4 cups beans, cut in 1″ lengths (l lb.); 4 strips bacon; 11/2 tbsp flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 2 tbsp vinegar; 2 tbsp chopped onion; 1 tbsp dill; 1 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; 2 cup cooked diced potatoes
Cook beans in boiling salted water until just tender; drain, reserving liquid.  Cook bacon until crisp; drain reserving fat. Return 2 tbsp fat to skillet. Blend in flour and sugar. Add vinegar and 1 c. bean liquid (add water, if necessary, to make 1 c.). Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is thickened and comes to a boil. Add onion, dill, salt and pepper. Combine beans and potatoes in saucepan. Add sauce and heat just until potatoes and beans are hot, stirring occasionally. Serve at once, or keep warm in oven until mealtime. Spoon into serving dish and top with bacon. Makes 8 servings.

SUNNY-SIDE UPS WITH PESTO AND TOMATOES
1 teaspoon olive oil; 12 cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 small sweet onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons pesto; 4 eggs; salt and pepper
Heat oil in medium-size nonstick pan over medium-high flame. Add tomatoes and onion and cook them quickly, stirring often, until tomatoes give off juice and begin to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and stir in pesto. Push mixture to sides of pan, creating a “ring” of sauce. Carefully break eggs into center of pan, cover, and cook until eggs are set, 4-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately. Makes 2 servings. Recipe from MACSAC

FRESH TOMATO AND FETA SAUCE FOR PASTA
1/2-pound angel hair pasta; fresh, great-tasting tomatoes, enough to make 2 cups chopped tomatoes or 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes; 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/4 cup olive oil; salt and pepper; feta cheese
Boil pasta in large quantity of salted water until just tender. Meanwhile, chop tomatoes and place in bowl. (If you’re using paste, or Roma-type, tomatoes, you may first cut a shallow X in the bottom of each, dip the tomatoes in the boiling pasta water 10-20 seconds, and remove skins.) Place lemon juice in a large bowl; whisk in oil and add salt and pepper to taste. Rinse and drain pasta; toss with oil mixture. Transfer pasta to a large, shallow platter and top with chopped tomatoes. Crumble feta on top, as much or as little as you like. Serve at room temperature. This recipe came from a sister’s friend. You can vary the amounts to serve any number of people. Makes 3-4 servings.

CORNY TOMATO SALAD
1 Tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp chopped, fresh oregano; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp chili powder; 1/8 tsp ground cumin; 1/8 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 tomatoes, diced; 1 small zucchini, diced; 1/2 c thinly sliced shallots; 2/3 cup corn, uncooked
Whisk together juice, salt, oregano, garlic, chili powder, cumin, pepper and oil in medium bowl. Add tomatoes, zucchini, onions and corn; toss. Marinate at room temperature 1 hour or several hours in the refrigerator. Makes 6 servings

PEACHES ‘N’ CREAM SMOOTHIE
1 1/2 peaches, peeled; 1/2 C light cream or half-and-half; 2 T orange juice; 1 tsp honey; 4-5 Ice cubes
Blend at low speed for 30 seconds, then at high speed for 10 seconds.
Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.

PEACHES-AND-ANYTHING SMOOTHIE
1 1/2 peaches. peeled; 1/2 cup summer or tropical fruit such as banana, strawberries, pineapple, or blueberries (cut up If necessary); 1/2 cup orange juice, yogurt, or apple cider; 1 teaspoon honey; 5-6 Ice cubes
Blend at low speed for 30 seconds, then at high speed for 10
seconds. Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.

GRILLED PORK TENDERLOIN & PEACHES
Grilled Pork Tenderloin 3 Tbsp canola oil, 2 Tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped, 1/2 tsp coarse black pepper 1/2lbs. pork tenderloin, fat trimmed, Kosher salt
Reserved peach glaze (from below recipe) Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Whisk the oil, rosemary, and pepper in a baking dish. Add the pork; coat. Cover and refrigerate 1 to 8 hours. 2. Heat grill to high. Remove pork from the refrigerator 20 minutes before grilling. Season tenderloin liberally with salt and grill on all sides until golden brown and slightly charred, 2 minutes per side. Brush with peach glaze, cover, and continue grilling 5 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the pork reads 145°F. 3. Remove to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2-inch-thick pieces. Place on a platter with the peaches; drizzle with remaining glaze. Garnish with rosemary sprigs.