Summer Share Twenty-three Oct/ 27th/29th 2020
Important information:
- This is the last biweekly share. Final produce and fruit shares are next week Nov 3rd and 5th.
- Please gather all boxes. Biweekly members may return their boxes the following week if desired.
- Thank you for your support to our winter share. Winter share enrollment is complete.
- Winter share information will be sent out the week of November 8th.
- The summer share membership form is attached and is also available on line @https://promisedlandcsa.com/csa/sign-up/
Farm News from Jane
Wasn’t last week’s share really green? It looked so beautiful when we were packing the share boxes. Almost everything was a variation of green except the daikon radishes and the garlic. From deep green acorn to blueish green kale and bright green broccoli and vibrantly bright Romanesco. It was like a portrait waiting to be painted! This week we have lots of orange, yellow and green; carrots and rutabaga, rutabaga and spaghetti squash. And if I haven’t already put a plug in for Apple rutabaga soup here, I go again… YUM & YUM; delicious and nutritious. Even the kids really like it!
And wasn’t Friday like a gift from heaven; warm and wonderfully fragrant. We began the morning harvesting in raingear as we thought that it would be wet but the night winds left the fields fairly dry and before you knew it, we were down to our shirt sleeves, wishing we had worn shorts! The day ended with the dry bean harvest. Our crew pulled all up all the dry bean plants by hand windrowing them as they went so that the bean harvester could thrash then off the plants. The machine did plug up at the damp woods end but Ben was still able get most of them so we now have black turtles, red kidneys and white navy beans for winter shares. They are in the greenhouse finishing the drying process. It is so convenient to have a warm and dry place for these processes!
The season has almost come to an end and we have tried to share as much as possible these last few weeks. It will be a challenge this week to get everything in the box week that we have harvested. So, if something is missing tomorrow it may be due to space! We are so very grateful for all your support to our farm and family. It has been a challenging season with the loss of Daniel and the pandemic but we have been very blessed with a good harvest and with health, support and generous kindnesses from friends, family and workers. We couldn’t have done it without you!!! For those of you with biweekly share, have a healthy and wonderful winter season and we hope that you’ll join us next summer. Until then, enjoy each day to the fullest, Jane & Ben
Produce: Starbor kale Garlic Golden beets Carrots green Cabbage Broccoli Romanesco
Spaghetti squash Celeriac Rutabaga Leeks Anaheim peppers Field Greens
Fruit: Crispin & Fuji Apples
Produce tips:
– Anaheim peppers are a mild variety of the New Mexico chili pepper. The name “Anaheim” derives from Emilio Ortega, a farmer who brought the seeds to the Anaheim, California, area in the early 1900s.
– Rutabaga should be stored in the fridge if possible.
– Field greens and kale are not bagged but should be wrapped in plastic or paper towels and refrigerated for freshness when storing.
– Celeriac is root celery and stores very well in the refrigerator. It does need to be peeled before using. See recipe section for ideas. It is very flavorful so a little goes a long way… Substitute for stalk celery in recipes.
– Broccoli and Romanesco would store best if bagged first.
– Starbor kale is a “clipping” variety of kale. The entire stalk can be harvested at one time.
– Spaghetti squash is best cut in half, seeded and then baked cut side down in a baking dish with an inch of water. Bake until tender and the n flip right side up to dry before removing from oven. Use a fork to create “strands” like spaghetti, It’s great with butter, salt and cheese or any kind of sauce. It also makes a great “bed” for an entrée.
– Romanesco is a type of cauliflower. See recipes for cooking helps.
Recipes
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 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.
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.
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 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.
WELL- THYMED RUTABAGA
1 1/2 – 2 pounds rutabaga; chicken or vegetable stock; 1 cup sour cream; 1-2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme or 1-2 tsp. dried thyme; salt and pepper to taste
Peel rutabaga, dice the flesh, and place in a saucepan. Add just enough stock to cover rutabaga, bring to simmer, and cook until tender. You can serve these three ways: 1) Soup: Stir in the remaining ingredients; 2) Side dish: Drain off stock and stir in remaining ingredients; or 3) Puree: Drain off most of the stock and puree rutabaga with remaining ingredients, using immersion blender, food processor, or blender. Makes 4-6 servings; Recipe from Linda Holley, Harmony Valley Farm
RUTABAGA CARROT COLESLAW WITH BUTTERMILK GARLIC DRESSING
1 large or 2 medium rutabagas (about 1 pound); 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 large carrot (about 1/4 pound); salt and pepper to taste; 6-8 tablespoons Buttermilk Garlic dressing (recipe follows)
Peel rutabagas and carrot; cut into large chunks and shred in food processor or on very large grate holes of hand-held grater. Toss with remaining ingredients and chill hour. Makes 4 servings; Recipe from MACSAC
APPLE RUTABAGA SOUP
Melt 4 oz. butter; Add: l cp coarsely chopped onion; l cp peeled, cored, chopped apple; l cp peeled chopped rutabaga; l cp peeled, seeded chopped butternut squash; l cp chopped carrots; l cp peeled, chopped sweet potatoes. Cook until onions are translucent, stir occasionally. Add; l qt chicken or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil and cook till vegetables are tender and cooked through. Puree in small batches. Add: l c heavy cream; l cp milk; 1/4 c maple syrup. Return to stove and heat through. Add salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
CHILI ROASTED RUTABAGA
2T vegetable oil, 1½t chili powder. 1t onion powder, 1t garlic salt, 1/2t sugar, 1/2t paprika, ½ t cayenne, 1 ½ pounds rutabaga.
Heat oven to 4000. Mix first 7 ingredients in a medium bowl. Peel rutabagas and cut them into chunks that are about 2inches long and ½-1 inch wide. Toss with spice mix. Transfer to large baking sheet, spreading pieces out evenly. Bake until tender and somewhat browned, stirring occasionally, about 25 minutes. Makes 4-6 servings
CARROT AND RUTABAGA MASH
1# carrots peeled, and 1# rutabaga, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces, 3T. butter, salt and pepper
Boil carrots and rutabaga until just soft. Smash together with a potato masher or food processor until it looks like a puree. Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired. Recipe courtesy of Robert Irvine; Food Network
RUTABAGA “POTATO” SALAD
2 medium to large rutabaga, 1/4 -1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon mustard, 1/4 to 1/2 an onion, diced, 1-2 T sweet relish, garlic powder, salt, pepper
Other fun ingredients to try: salad greens, celeriac, celery salt, hard-boiled eggs, dill, dill seed, chopped dill pickle, raw bok choy, diced carrots, even some cooked potatoes mixed in! Clean, peel, and chop the rutabaga into cubes. Put into a pot, just cover with water, and boil until soft and edible, when a fork goes through easily. Drain water out. Rinse the rutabaga in cold water if you want to get it to be a cold salad. Mix in all other ingredients. You can soak the diced onions in warm water (or the rutabaga boiling water) to mellow them if you want. Adjust flavorings to taste. Chill in the fridge, or eat warm. Recipe from Red Fire farm
LENTIL AND VEGETABLE STEW WITH KALE
2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 large carrots, peeled, chopped (1 1/4 cups); 1 medium celery root (celeriac), peeled, chopped (3 cups); 1 medium rutabaga, peeled, chopped (2 cups); 1 pound brown lentils, rinsed; 1 tablespoon herbes de Provence; 8 cups (or more) vegetable broth; 1 large bunch kale (about 9 ounces), ribs removed, leaves coarsely chopped
Heat oil in large pot over high heat. Add onion and next 3 ingredients; sprinkle with salt and pepper and sauté until beginning to soften and brown, 10 to 11 minutes. Stir in lentils and herbes de Provence. Add broth and kale. Bring to boil, stirring to incorporate kale. Reduce heat to medium low, cover with lid slightly ajar, and simmer until lentils are tender, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Add more broth to thin, if desired. Season with salt and pepper. Serves 8
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER AND KALE
3 T butter, sliced into tablespoons, 1 medium head of cauliflower, 4 C curly kale (about ½ bunch, stripped from stalk, chopped or torn into bite-sized pieces, rinsed and drained, ½ t salt plus more for the kale, ½ pine nuts, toasted Preheat the oven to 4250. Heat the butter in a small, thick-bottomed stainless-steel skillet over medium heat. Whisk the butter as it foams and continue as the foam begins to disappear and you begin to see brown bits., 3-4 minutes. It should smell nutty. Remove from the heat to prevent burning and set aside. Place the cauliflower on a parchment lined baking sheet and drizzle with about 2 T of the butter. Mix well to coat. Season with the salt and place the cauliflower in the oven, turning at least once during the roasting to prevent any side from burning. Set the timer for fifteen minutes. Place the kale in a bowl and rub the remaining tablespoon of butter and two pinches of salt into the kale. Try to get all the parts of the kale pieces buttered. After the cauliflower has roasted for fifteen minutes, lower the temp to 3500. Push the cauliflower to one side of the baking sheet and add the kale. Continue to roast for another twelve minutes or so. Mixing at least once for a total of about twenty-seven minutes. The cauliflower should be easily pierced with a fork. And the kale softened, pleasantly edible with some pieces being slightly crispy. Times could vary depending on the size of the cauliflower. Turn onto a platter, mix with the pine nuts.
KALE & APPLES
1 bunch of kale, stripped from its stalk, chopped into bite-sized pieces and rinsed, (10-12 oz., 6-8 cups), 1 T butter, 2 medium shallots, thinly sliced (1/2 c), 2 crisp apples, such as empire, or Crispin,, peeled and cored and cut into ½ dice, 2 t brown sugar, ¼ C dried cranberries, roughly chopped, salt, 2 t olive oil, ½ C walnuts, toasted and chopped (optional)
Place about 4 cups of water in a 10-12 inch skillet or soup pot that that a tight-fitting lid. Bring to a boil and add the kale. Cover and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally until tender, 4-6 minutes, depending on the kale. Transfer to a colander to drain. Shake a few times to release the steam and stop the cooking. Dry the skillet and melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the shallots and apples and sauté until the apples are nicely colored and nearly soft, 5-7 minutes. Add the brown sugar and cranberries and sauté for a few minutes more. Add the cooked kale (squeeze out any excess moisture), a pinch or two of salt and the olive oil and mix well. Top with the walnuts, if using and serve hot. *Try with pears or a combo of apples and pears
BROCCOLI, CARROT & RED CABBAGE KALE SALAD
4 C chopped kale (stripped from the stalk), 1 T olive oil, 2 pinches slat, 2 C tiny broccoli florets, 1 large carrot, peeled and cut into matchsticks or shredded, 2 C red cabbage, sliced paper thin, 4 radishes, cut in half and then thinly sliced, (optional), ½ C dried arame seaweed (optional), 2 T toasted sesame seeds
Lemon Tahini Dressing: 2 T fresh lemon juice, 2 T tahini, 2 t pure maple syrup, ½ t fresh finely minced garlic (1 small clove), 4 T olive oil, 2 t soy sauce, and or salt to taste, 1 T water, salt
Place the kale in a wide salad bowl. Sprinkle with the olive oil and salt. Massage with your hands for 2-3 minutes, until the kale is reduced and glistening. It should taste good. (if it seems moist, use a paper towel to blot up some of the moisture.) Mix in the broccoli, carrot, cabbage and radishes, if using. Put in the arame if using, in a small bowl and cover with 1 C hot water to hydrate. After at least 5 minutes, drain, dry with a paper towel and make one or two cuts to cut the long strands just a bit. Add to the salad. Make the dressing. Whisk together the lemon juice, tahini, maple syrup, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, water and salt to taste in a small bowl. Add additional water if it’s too thick. Try a bit of the salad in a small bowl with the dressing to see if you need to make any adjustments. Just before serving, dress the salad (you may not need all the dressing) and toss with tongs. Top with the sesame seeds.
RAMEN KALE CRUNCHY SLAW
4 C kale (about ½ bunch), stripped from stalk, rinsed, cut into ¼ in. ribbons, rinsed and dried, 2t olive oil, 2 pinches of kosher salt, 4 C thinly shredded cabbage (a mix of red and green cabbages looks great), 2 carrots, peeled and shredded, 1 (2-3oz.) packet of ramen noodles, 3T sesame seeds, toasted, ¼ C almond slices, toasted
Dressing: 3 T seasoned rice vinegar, 2 T sugar, ½ t kosher salt, 1-2 t tamari or soy sauce, ¼ t freshly ground black pepper, ¼ C olive oil, 2 T dark sesame oil, toasted
Place kale in a large serving bowl or dish and add the olive oil and salt. Massage the kale with your hands to soften and tenderize, about 2 minutes. Add the cabbage and carrots. Crush the ramen noodles in the package and toss with the salad.
Make the dressing: In a bowl, combine the vinegar, salt, tamari, pepper, olive oil and sesame oil and mix well. Add the dressing to the salad 30-6- minutes before serving. Toss the dressing evenly to coat and mix in half of the seeds and nuts. Top with the remaining nuts when ready to serve. Variation: Add shredded chicken.
Recipe from Kale, Glorious Kale by Catherine Walthers
“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. Makes 4 generous servings.
CELERIAC AND GREEN APPLE SALAD
1 small sweet onion, peeled and finely diced; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon oregano 2 pounds fresh celeriac; 2 large Granny Smith apples, unpeeled and cored; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1 cup baby greens; 3 beefsteak tomatoes, cared and sliced 1/4-inch thick; 12 sweet baby turnips, washed and quartered
Make the dressing: In a medium bowl combine the onion, garlic, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and honey. Mix well and set aside. Peel all of the skin from the celeriac with a paring knife. Grate the celeriac coarsely with a box grater (do not use a food processor-a food processor will grate it too finely, and the salad will have very little texture and be too wet). Set aside. Grate the apples with the box grater. Add the celeriac and apples to the dressing and toss gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside for at least 30 minutes before serving. Meanwhile, boil the balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. whisk frequently, and continue to boil until the vinegar is reduced by approximately one-third. Taste the celeriac and apple mixture and add salt and pepper if desired. (Celeriac absorbs seasonings very quickly, so always taste the salad before serving to see if more salt or pepper needs to be added.) Place celeriac and apple mixture on a plate garnished with the baby greens, tomatoes, and baby turnips. Drizzle with the balsamic reduction and serve at once. 4-6 Servings Recipe from The Alchemist Pub And Brewery
CELERIAC (CELERY ROOT) SALAD
2 medium firm celeriacs; 2 tbsps. lemon juice; 4 hard-cooked eggs; 1/4 c. chopped onion; 1 tbsp. minced parsley; 1/8 tsp. pepper; 4 to 5 tbsps. mayonnaise or salad dressing; Salt to taste; Pimiento-stuffed olives; Paprika
Peel celery roots, cutting away fibrous roots at bottom and any adhering top growth. Cut in halves; cook in boiling salted water to cover, with 1 tsp. lemon juice added, until tender, 20 to 30 minutes for halves, about 40 to 60 minutes for whole roots. Drain; cut in cubes, place in bowl and add remaining lemon juice (or French salad dressing) to help keep it white instead of turning gray. When celery roots are cool, add 3 diced hard-cooked eggs, onion, parsley, pepper and mayonnaise. Add more salt, if needed. Mix well; turn into serving bowl. Garnish with slices of hard-cooked egg and olives and sprinkle with paprika. Chill 1 hour, or several hours, before serving. Makes 6 to 8 servings. Recipe from America’s Best Vegetable Recipes.
BEET AND CELERIAC CASSEROLE
12 ounces raw beets; 12 ounces raw celeriac; 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped; 6 juniper berries, crushed; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice; 1/2 cup vegetable stock; salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Peel and slice the beets very finely. Quarter and peel the celeriac and slice very finely. Fill a l0-inch cast-iron ovenproof or flameproof frying pan with alternate layers of beet and celeriac slices, sprinkling with thyme, juniper and salt and pepper between each layer. Mix the orange juice and stock together and pour over the gratin. Place over medium heat and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Cover with foil and place in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil and raise the oven temperature to 400°F. Cook for another 10 minutes. Serves 6. Recipe from: Vegetarian the best ever recipe collection.
ITALIAN-STYLE SPAGHETTI SQUASH
1/2 medium spaghetti squash (about 1 1/2 lbs.), seeded; 2 Tbsp water; 1 (14 1/2-oz) can Italian style stewed tomatoes, drained; 1/4 c grated Parmesan cheese
Place squash, cut side down, in a microwave-safe baking dish. Add water. Cover and microwave on high 10-14 minutes, or until tender. Using a towel or pot holder, hold squash on its side in dish. With other hand, use fork to shred pulp into strands into the dish. Add tomatoes, toss. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve. Makes 6 serving
SPAGHETTI SQUASH AMERICANA
1 large spaghetti squash; 4 ounces butter; 4 ounces Parmesan cheese grated; 4 ounces Monterey jack or cheddar cheese shredded; 3-4 sprigs basil chopped; Salt; Freshly ground black pepper
Split and seed squash. Bake cut side down in half inch of water in baking dish in preheated 3500 F. oven for 20 to 30 minutes or until soft. Melt butter and mix with cheeses. When squash is cooked, remove spaghetti like strands with a fork. Mix in bowl with cheese mixture. Sprinkle chopped basil on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serves 4.
SPAGHETTI SQUASH SALAD
1 spaghetti squash, 1 large onion; finely chopped, ½ c sugar, 1 c diced celery, ½ c chopped sweet red pepper. ½ c chopped green pepper, ½ c oil, ¼ c vinegar, ½ t salt
Cut squash in half; scoop out seeds. Place squash cut side down, in a baking pan. Fill pan with hot water to a depth of ½ inch. Bake uncovered, at 350 for 30-40 minutes or until tender. When cool enough to handle, scoop out the squash, separating strand with a fork. Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl; add the squash and stir well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve with a slotted spoon as a salad or as a relish with burgers and hotdogs. Store in the refrigerator. Recipe from Taste of Home
FAJITA-STUFFED SPAGHETTI SQUASH
1 medium spaghetti squash (2 to 2 1/2 lb.), 1 teaspoon vegetable or olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper, ½ lb. extra-lean ground beef (at least 90% lean), 1 medium serrano chile, seeded and finely chopped (about 2 teaspoons), 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic, ¾ cup sliced red, yellow or orange bell pepper, ¾ cup sliced onions, 1package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning mix, 2/3 cup water, ¾ cup shredded Cheddar cheese (3 oz) ½ cup chopped tomato, ½ cup diced avocado
Heat oven to 400°F. Line rimmed baking pan with foil. Cut squash in half lengthwise; remove seeds, and brush insides with oil and season with salt and pepper. Place cut sides down in pan. Roast 35 to 40 minutes or until squash is tender. When squash is cool enough to handle, scoop flesh into bowl, and reserve squash shells on lined pan. Meanwhile, heat 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Cook beef with chile and garlic 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is thoroughly cooked; remove and reserve. Heat same skillet over medium heat, and add bell pepper and onions; cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onion is just starting to soften. Add beef mixture, squash flesh, taco seasoning mix and water to skillet. Cook until well blended and heated through, stirring frequently. Stir in cheese; spoon mixture back into squash shells. Bake 5 to 6 minutes or until cheese is melted. Top with tomato and avocado.
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
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
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.)
GOLDEN BEET SLAW
1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1 tablespoon orange juice, 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, 1 1/2 pounds golden beets, peeled and cut into matchsticks, 3 scallions, sliced, 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Peel beets with peeler and then cut into matchsticks. Whisk together oil, vinegar, zest, orange juice, salt, and pepper. Toss with beets, scallions, and cilantro. Serves 6; recipe from Martha Stewart Living
ROASTED GOLDEN BEETS AND CARROTS WITH SAGE
1/2 LB. yellow beets, without tops (2 medium), 1/2 LB. carrots, peeled (3 medium), 2 garlic cloves, smashed, 4 sage leaves, 1 sprig fresh rosemary, 2 T. extra-virgin olive oil, 1 1/2 T. white wine vinegar, Salt to taste
Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Add the beets to a medium pot of simmering water, seasoned with salt. Cook until just tender then remove from the water and plunge into an ice water bath to cool. Once cooled, peel the beets then cut into halves or quarters, depending on preferred size. Cut carrots to a similar size. Add beets and carrots to a roasting pan and toss with the smashed garlic, sage, rosemary, olive oil, white wine vinegar and about 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Place into the oven and roast for about 30 minutes or until the beets and carrots become slightly golden and are tender. Serve as a side dish or on top of an arugula salad or add some crumbled goat cheese. Recipe from https://www.inspiredtaste.net
BROCCOLI SOUP WITH LEEKS AND THYME
3 tablespoons butter; 3 cups chopped leeks (white and pale green parts only; about 3 large); 6 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, divided; 11/4 pounds broccoli crowns, chopped (about 8 generous cups); 4 cups (or more) low-salt chicken broth
Melt butter in large pot over medium-high heat. Add leeks and 4 teaspoons thyme; sauté until leeks are almost soft, reducing heat if needed to prevent rapid browning, 7 to 8 minutes. Transfer 1/2 cup leeks to small bowl; reserve. Add broccoli and 4 cups broth to pot; bring to boil. Cover; boil until vegetables are tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Puree soup in blender until smooth. Thin soup with more broth, if desired. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls; sprinkle with 2 teaspoons chopped thyme and reserved leeks. 4 servings
BROCCOLI AND RICOTTA CANNELLONI
2 tsp olive oil; 12 dried cannelloni tubes, 3 inches long; 4 cups broccoli florets; 11/2 cups fresh bread crumbs; 2/3 cup milk; 4 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing; 1 cup ricotta cheese; pinch of grated nutmeg; 6 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp pine nuts; salt and freshly ground black pepper; tomato sauce
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease four ovenproof dishes with olive oil. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil, add the olive oil to the water to prevent the pasta from sticking together and simmer the cannelloni, uncovered, for 6-7 minutes, or until it is nearly cooked. Meanwhile, steam or boil the broccoli for 10 minutes, until tender. Drain the pasta, rinse under cold water and set aside. Drain the broccoli and let it cool, then place in a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Set aside. Place the bread crumbs in a bowl, add the milk and oil and stir until softened. Add the ricotta, broccoli puree, nutmeg and 4 tablespoons of the Parmesan or Pecorino cheese. Season with salt and pepper, and then set aside. Pour sauce into the four ovenproof dishes. Spoon the cheese mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch nozzle. Carefully open the cannelloni tubes. Standing each one upright on a board, pipe the filling into each tube. Divide the tubes equally among the four dishes and lay them in rows in the tomato sauce. Brush the tops of the cannelloni with a little olive oil and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan or Pecorino cheese and pine nuts. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden. Serves 4
CREAMY BROCCOLI AND LEEK BISQUE
1 T. oil; 4 leeks thinly sliced; 3 garlic cloves, chopped; 4cps broth plus 2cps; 21bs potatoes; 1 lb. broccoli; l tsp sugar; 1/3 parsley; 1/4tsp nutmeg 1 cp milk; 1 T lemon juice; 1/2tsp hot pepper sauce; salt and pepper to taste
Heat oil in a large saucepan or soup pot. Add the leeks and garlic and cook over medium heat, stirring, for one minute. Add 2 T water, cover, and cook over low heat for 5 minutes until somewhat softened. Add the 4 cups broth, potatoes, broccoli, and sugar. Cook, covered, over medium-low heat, until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. In a food processor or blender, puree the vegetable mixture along with the parsley, in batches if necessary, pulsing until smooth. Stir in the nutmeg. Return to it to saucepan, whisk in the remaining broth and milk, and reheat gently, stirring frequently. Season with the lemon juice, hot pepper sauce, salt, and pepper, and serve topped with a lemon slice if desired.
HERBED BROCCOLI AND RICE FRITTATA
2 tsp olive oil; 1 cup thinly sliced scapes; garlic clove finely chopped; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 1/2 cups cooked broccoli; 4 eggs; 4 egg whites; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1 Tbsp oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; y., tsp cayenne pepper; 3 Tbsp grated mozzarella cheese
Heat oil in large oven proof skillet. Add the scapes and garlic and cook over medium heat, stirring, for 2 m minutes. Add the rice and broccoli and cook, stirring, until heated through, about 2 minutes. Whisk the eggs and egg whites with the ricotta cheese, oregano, salt, cayenne pepper until well blended. Pour eggs mixture over the rice mixture in the pan, stir gently to combine, and cover. Cook over low heat until eggs are almost set, 7-10 minutes. Preheat broiler. Sprinkle cheese over frittata. Place under the broiler, about 5 inches from the heat source, and broil until the cheese melts and the top of the frittata is flecked golden brown, about 2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Cut into wedges and serve. 4 main dish servings.
BROCCOLI SALAD
1 head broccoli, flower and stems chopped; 1/2 lb. fried bacon, crumbled; 1/2 cup chopped red onion; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Dressing: Stir together:1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2T sugar; 1 T vinegar
Mix all salad ingredients and stir in dressing. Refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
ROASTED BROCCOLI
1 head broccoli, large stem and medium stems; removed and reserved for another use; 11/2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Break broccoli head into medium florets and toss with remaining ingredients. Arrange in single layer on baking sheet. Bake 18-22 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through the cooking time. Remove from oven when broccoli is a deep green color with some darkened spots. Makes 4 servings. Recipe from MACSAC
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
BRAISED LEEKS
3-4 medium leeks; 3-4 ounces sesame or walnut oil; 2 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 small piece ginger, grated; l/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons tamari sauce
Clip root hairs and remove most of the green leaf from leeks. Cut lengthwise in half. In large skillet, covered, simmer leeks in 1/4-inch boiling water until just soft. Drain. Heat oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper in skillet. Place leeks in hot skillet. Brown on one side. Turn and brown other sides. Sprinkle with tamari sauce. Serves Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.
STUFFED CABBAGE ROLLS
12 cabbage leaves*; 1-pound hamburger; 1/2 cup uncooked instant rice; 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup); 1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 1/8 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water
Cover cabbage leaves with boiling water. Cover and let stand until leaves are limp, about 10 minutes. Remove leaves; drain. Sauté hamburger, rice, onion, mushrooms (with liquid), salt, pepper, garlic salt and 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce. Place about 1/3 cup hamburger mixture at stem end of each leaf. Roll leaf around hamburger mixture, tucking in sides. Place cabbage rolls seam sides down in ungreased square baking dish, 8x8x2 inches. Mix remaining tomato sauce, the sugar and lemon juice; pour over cabbage rolls. Cover and cook in 3500 oven, until hamburger is done, about 45 minutes. Mix cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water in saucepan. Stir in liquid from cabbage rolls. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute. Serve sauce with cabbage rolls. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serves 4-5
SCANDINAVIAN CABBAGE SOUP
2 C. cabbage, chopped; l C. onion, sliced; l C. celery slices; 1 C. peas; l C. thin sliced carrots; 2 C. creamed corn; 1 stick butter; 21/2-3cps milk; 1 tsp salt; 1/4tsp pepper; 1 tsp thyme; 1/4tsp garlic powder or fresh garlic to taste; 11/2-2cps shredded cheddar cheese.
Sauté cabbage, onions, celery, peas, and carrots in butter until tender, stirring frequently. Add milk and seasonings. Heat over low; add cheese, stirring until melted.
FRUITED CABBAGE SLAW
1/2-pound green cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups); 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup pineapple tidbits; 1/2 cup raisins; 1 red apple, cored and cubed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tsp cider vinegar; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp celery seed; 1 banana, sliced
In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, pineapple, raisins, and apple; set aside. Mix together yogurt, vinegar, sugar, salt, and celery seed. Pour over cabbage mixture and toss until well mixed. Refrigerate 1 hour or more. Just before serving, add sliced banana and toss. Serves 6 to 8
INDONESIAN CURRIED CABBAGE
1 large cabbage; 1 large bay leaf; 3 whole cloves; 1 clove garlic; 2 cups beef broth; 3 tbs. grated onion; 4 tbs. butter; 1 tbs. curry powder; 6 tbs. flour; salt and cayenne pepper; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
Shred cabbage. Rinse in a colander with lukewarm water. Make a bouquet garni of bay leaf, whole cloves and garlic. Place cabbage, broth and bouquet garni (in a spice bag if available) in a large kettle. Bring to boil. Cook gently 10 minutes, or until cabbage is tender. Melt butter in another saucepan. Add curry powder and cook gently 1 minute. Remove pan from heat. Stir in flour and season to taste with salt and cayenne. Carefully blend in milk. Return to heat and stir constantly until sauce boils. Drain cabbage well and discard spices. Combine cabbage and sauce. Pour into buttered casserole. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake in 475°F oven 15 minutes or until top bubbles and is nicely browned. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
STIR-FRIED CABBAGE
2 tbsp oil; 1 medium-size onion, sliced; 8 cups coarsely shredded cabbage; 1 tsp celery seed; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp coriander 1/4 tsp salt. Heat oil to medium-hot in large skillet or wok. Stir-fry onion in oil for a minute or two, then add cabbage and seasonings. Stir-fry for 5 to 10 minutes until cabbage is tender but firm. Pan may be covered briefly toward the end of the cooking process to hasten tenderizing. Serve immediately.
Yield: 4 servings
CROSTINI WITH LEEKS AND SWEET PEPPERS
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 leeks (about 2/3 pound), sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rounds; 1 large sweet red pepper, cut into small diamonds; 1/2 cup Greek olives, pitted and chopped; 3-4 tablespoons vinaigrette; salt and pepper to taste; sourdough bread, thinly sliced and toasted
Heat olive oil in skillet over medium flame. Add leeks; cook 3-5 minutes. Add sweet peppers; cook, stirring, until mostly tender, 3-5 minutes. Add olives and vinaigrette; cool. Season with salt and pepper. Serve at room temperature on toasted bread. Makes 2-3 cups leek mixture.
APPLE SALSA WITH GRILLED CHICKEN
2 c chopped apples; 3/4 c chopped Anaheim or green pepper; 1/2 c chopped onion; 1/4 c lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 c dry white wine; 1/4 c apple juice; 1/2 tsp grated lime peel; 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Combine apples, chili peppers, onion, lime juice, salt and pepper; mix well. Set aside about 1/2 hour for flavors to blend. Combine wine, apple juice and lime peel. Pour over chicken breasts in glass dish or sealable plastic bag. Marinate 20-30 minutes. Drain chicken; discard marinade. Grill over medium-hot coals, turning once, until chicken is done. Serve with salsa on the side. Makes 4 servings with salsa to spare