Summer Share Twenty October 5th 2021
Important information
- This is an even biweekly distribution as well as a weekly one.
- There are four more weekly shares and two more biweekly shares left in the summer share season.
- There are still winter shares available.
- Fall Potluck/Farm walk will be held Sunday Oct. 17th; information follows.
Fall Potluck information:
– The event begins at 3:00 pm with an educational field walk so please be prompt. You may want to bring a wagon for those “little ones” or to haul back a pumpkin or two!
– This is held rain or shine and will conclude at 5:30 pm.
-Weather appropriate outerwear including boots is essential for the farm walk.
– Bring a dish to pass that feeds four or more people. Please include your recipe with a list of ingredients for the benefit of those who may have food allergies or just love your dish.
– If you bring a dessert, please consider bringing a main dish as well. The food is always awesome and sometimes we run low on main dishes! Although soup is delicious it is somewhat difficult to handle and we do not have enough outlets in the barn to run crock pots.
– We will provide meat, beverages, and cups; please bring your own place settings and chairs.
– When you arrive at the CSA farm @ 2112 County Line Rd Alden, park in the grassy area to the left of the barn. The farm is located 1 mi. north of Rt. 20 or 2.5 mi. south of Rt. 33.
– Please leave any pets at home; thanks!
Farm News from Jane
The warm weather continues and with the ample rainfall fall crops are doing well. The upcoming forecast looks to continue in this pattern; it is encouraging for those late crops to prosper and mature. Last week both high tunnels were emptied; with lots of helpful hands, most of the summer plants were quickly removed and then the beds were renovated, fertilized and shortly after we began planting the new seedling crops in them. House Four was emptied on Tuesday and someone commented how sad it looked after all those lush plants were removed and it stood so empty. But by the next day little green plants dotted new rows once again. It is such a wonderful cycle of renewal; sometimes I wish that we could be renewed that quickly and easily. But our life is definitely a slower journey of maturity, wisdom and understanding…
Today was one of the wettest, muddy harvest days we’ve had this season, but everyone’s spirits were undaunted as we pulled radishes, celeriac and leeks in the rain. It wasn’t cold so that was a bonus. As the weather changes and the weeks continue to fly by, the summer share distributions will soon come to an end. The winter shares are bountiful and diverse so you don’t have to “do without” during the winter. We do still have some winter shares available. Lots of beautiful, nutritious and delicious veggies fill the boxes so don’t miss out! Until next time, enjoy the “fruits” of our labor, Jane
Produce: Fall greens Broccoli Dinosaur kale Celeriac Watermelon radishes Leek
Garlic Fingerling potatoes Cubanelle peppers Butternut squash Carrots
Fruit: Bosc Pears Honeycrisp Apples
Produce tips:
– Celeriac is also known as celery root and was the precursor to stalk celery. Celery stalk became widely grown and used after modern cross-country trucking became available. Add raw to salads, roast, boil and mash, add to soups or stews as you would stalk celery. Use a sharp paring knife to peel the fibrous exterior. It will darken after cutting so either soak or wrap until ready to use.
– Dinosaur kale is also known as Dino, Tuscan or Lacinato kale. Its textured pebbled appearance gives it its nickname. Remove the stalk with a knife or just slide your fingers down the rib to remove the leaf.
– Fingerling potatoes boil or roast well. They are slightly sweet and creamy.
– Watermelon radishes are crisp and sweet, use either raw or in a stir-fry.
– Butternut squash: try roasting it. I cut it into 1-1 ½ inch slices first and then peel the slices with a paring knife. It is quick, at least until you get to the seed pod. Once I remove the seeds, I make a few more slices. After peeling, I cut it into chunks. Toss in a bowl with some olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and roast or grill. The roasting caramelizes the sugars and makes it even yummier. Don’t cut it too small unless you are in a hurry to cook it quicker. The chunks do shrink. And remember that canned pumpkin is really winter squash so go ahead and use your butternut squash for a “pumpkin” recipe!
– Fall greens are a spicy mix of red mustard, Pac choi, mizuna and leaf broccoli. A sweeter dressing or vinaigrette compliments it well.
Recipes
APPLE CHEDDAR SCONES
2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp cracked pepper; 1/4 cup butter or margarine; chilled, diced; 1 apple; cored, cut into 1/4″ pieces; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 3/4 cup milk; 1 egg, lightly beaten
Preheat oven to 425-degrees. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray. In bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, thyme, and pepper. With pastry blender cut in butter until coarse crumbs form with some pea-sized pieces. Stir in apple, cheese and milk until ingredients are moistened and dough starts to form. On lightly floured surface gently knead dough until it comes together. Shape into 7″-wide disk. Brush with egg. Cut into 8 wedges. Arrange wedges 2″ apart on baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes or until golden. Cool on pan one minute. Remove from pan; cool on rack. Makes 8 servings
AWESOME PEAR OR APPLE PANCAKE
3 eggs; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1\4 tsp salt; 1 tsp almond or pure vanilla extract; 2 ripe pears or 2 tart peeled apples, cored and thinly sliced; 2 tbsp sugar; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 2 tbsp butter; Confectioners’ sugar or pure maple syrup to taste
Warm an iron skillet in a 425-degree F oven. With a handheld blender, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, salt, and extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, toss together pears, sugar, and cinnamon. Melt butter in the warm skillet. Arrange the pears in a single layer on the bottom of the skillet. Carefully pour the batter over the fruit. Bake for 25 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. To serve, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar or drizzle with maple syrup. 2-4 servings
CURRIED BUTTERNUT APPLE SOUP
1/4 c butter; 2 c chopped onion; 1 rib celery, chopped; 4 tsp curry powder; 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 3 medium apples, peeled and chopped; 3 c water; 1 c cider; Salt and pepper, to taste.
Melt better in heavy pot; add onions, celery, and curry powder. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until vegetables are tender. Add squash, apples, and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20-30 minutes, or until squash and apples are tender. Drain and reserve liquid. Puree apple-squash mixture with one cup of cooking liquid. Return to pot. Add cider and as much of cooking liquid as needed to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Reheat if necessary, and serve. Makes 8-10 servings
PEAR APPLE CRUMB PIE
3 firm pears; 4 tart cooking apples; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1/8 tsp salt; grated rind of 1 lemon; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup raisins; 3/4 cup flour; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 6 tbsp cold butter, cut in pieces; 1 cup flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup cold shortening, cut in pieces; 2 tbsp ice water
For the crust, combine the flour and salt in a bowl. Add the shortening and cut in with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. With a fork, stir in just enough water to bind the dough. Gather into a ball and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Roll out about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer to a shallow 9-inch pie pan and trim to leave a 1/2-inch overhang. Fold the overhang under for a double thickness. Flute the edge with your fingers. Refrigerate. Place a baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 450°F. Peel and core the pears. Put them into a bowl. Peel, core, and slice the apples. Add to the pears. Stir in 1/3 cup of the sugar, the cornstarch, salt, and lemon rind. Add the lemon juice and raisins and stir to blend. For the crumb topping, comb in the remaining sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter in a bowl. Blend with fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside. Spoon the fruit filling into the pie shell. Sprinkle the crumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F. Cover the top of the pie loosely with a sheet of foil and continue baking until browned, 35 minutes more. Serves 8
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 teaspoon 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
PENNE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND BACON
3 cups fresh butternut squash or Pumpkin, peeled and cubed; 1 onion, cubed; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1/4-pound bacon, cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; Fresh rosemary; 1 box (13 ounces) whole grain or regular penne; Fresh parsley; 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
Cook in boiling salted water to cover until it is just tender. Drain and place half of the squash into a food processor with a little salt and pepper. Puree. Cook bacon in a large skillet until it’s just golden. Remove from skillet and drain. Wipe out the skillet and add a few drops of olive oil. Place onion and remaining ‘squash in the skillet and cook just until the onion turns golden. Add garlic and rosemary. Heat through. Add the squash puree. In the meantime, cook the penne until it is tender. Drain, reserving some of the water, add penne to the squash mixture adding a little of the reserved water if the sauce seems too thick. Serve immediately, drizzling a little of the balsamic vinegar over the top. Garnish with parsley. Recipe from Barilla chef Nicola Bindini.
PUMPKIN COOKIES
1 cup butter or margarine; 1 1/4 cups brown sugar; 2 eggs; l tsp vanilla; 2 cups cooked pumpkin; 4 3/4 cups flour; 1 tbsp cinnamon; 2 tsp baking powder; 2 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp nutmeg; 1/2 cup raisins Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 2 cookie sheets. Cream butter or margarine and brown sugar. Mix in eggs, vanilla, and pumpkin. Mix dry ingredients separately, then stir into first mixture. Stir in raisins. Drop by spoonsful onto cookie sheets. Bake 15 minutes. Recipe from Scotch Hill 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.
COUSCOUS WITH KOHLRABI AND CHERMOULA DRESSING
1-2 teaspoons minced garlic 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons minced cilantro 2-3 cups cooked couscous, cooled to warm temperature 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 2 cups peeled, diced kohlrabi, 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2 cup diced radishes 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 16 kalamata or oil-cured imported black olives, salt chopped (optional) 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Mix garlic, cilantro, parsley, paprika, cumin, and salt to taste. Stir in lemon juice and olive oil. Toss this mixture with couscous. Bring to room temperature. Gently toss with kohlrabi, radishes, and olives (if desired). Serve as is, or sprinkle with feta cheese. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from MACSAC
BAKED RADISHES
1/2 lb. radishes, trimmed and halved; 1 Tbsp Honey; 1 Tbsp butter; 1 tsp cinnamon
Steam radishes 5 minutes. Drain and arrange in a shallow baking dish. Combine honey, butter and cinnamon in a small saucepan. Warm and stir until butter is melted. Pour over radishes. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees until tender, about 30 minutes. Makes 4 servings
CONFETTI OF RADISHES AND CARROTS
3 large radishes (or that equivalent), peeled; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint; 4-6 medium carrots, peeled; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill; 8 ounces feta cheese (or substitute fresh chevre); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; salt and pepper to taste; 2-3 tablespoons wine vinegar
Shred radishes and carrots using hand-held cheese grater. Toss with remaining ingredients. Chill and serve. Makes 8 servings
COUSCOUS AND RADISH SALAD
1/2 c water; 1/8 tsp salt; pinch of pepper; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1/2 clove garlic, crushed; 1 Tbsp onions, thinly sliced; 1/2 c couscous; 1 c radishes, quartered; 1/4 c parsley; 2 tbsp mint; 1/4 tsp lemon rind, grated
Bring water to a boil in saucepan; stir in couscous. Remove from heat, and let stand, covered, 10 minutes; fluff with a fork. Set aside. Mince radishes by hand or in food processor. Place in large bowl. Mince parsley and mint. Add to radishes and stir in couscous. Whisk together lemon rind, salt, pepper, lemon juice, oil and garlic. Add to couscous mixture, toss. Top with onions. Makes 2 servings
BRAISED RADISHES
1# daikon radishes trimmed of tops and roots and cut into 1-inch slices, 1.5 C chicken stock, 2T butter cut into bits, 1 large shallot, thinly sliced, 2T sugar, 1T red wine vinegar, salt and pepper
Place the sliced radishes in a skillet with the stock, butter bits, shallots, sugar, vinegar, salt and pepper. Cover the pan and bring to a boil. Uncover the pan and reduce heat to medium. Cook radishes 10-12 minutes. If the stock has not cooked away remove the radishes and cook down until 1/2 cup, about 2 minutes. Serve the radishes with any remaining stock. Recipe from Rachel Ray
THREE- HOUR RED RADISH PICKLES
8 red radishes sliced into thin rounds; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon sea salt
In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine all the ingredients by hand. Transfer mixture to a pickle press. Press for 3 hours. (Note: If you don’t have a pickle press, lay a plate over the radish mixture and place a heavy weight on top of the plate.) Remove pickles, squeeze out excess liquid and taste. If it’s too salty, rinse pickles in a strainer under running water. Squeeze again and transfer to a serving dish. Serves: 4
ORZO SALAD WITH CELERY, RADISHES, AND DILL
2 cups orzo (rice-shaped pasta); 1 1/2 cups very thinly sliced celery (about 3 stalks); 1-pint grape tomatoes, halved; 1 bunch radishes, trimmed, thinly sliced; 2/3 cup chopped fresh dill; 5 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar; 1 cup (about 5 ounces) crumbled soft fresh goat cheese (preferably with four peppers)
Cook orzo in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain. Rinse under cold water; drain. Transfer to large bowl; add celery, tomatoes, radishes, and dill. Whisk oil and vinegar in small bowl. Season with salt and pepper and pour over salad; toss to coat. Season salad with salt and pepper. Fold in half of goat cheese. Sprinkle remaining cheese over and serve. 8 SIDE-DISH SERVINGS
STUFFED PEPPER SOUP
2 pounds ground beef, 6 cups water, 1 can (28 ounces) tomato sauce, 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained, 2 cups chopped green peppers, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons beef bouillon granules, 1 teaspoon pepper, 2 cups cooked long grain rice, chopped fresh parsley, optional In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook and stir beef until no longer pink; drain. Stir in next 8 ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until peppers are tender, about 30 minutes. Add cooked rice; simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes longer. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Recipe from TasteofHome.com
CHICKEN-STUFFED CUBANELLE PEPPERS
6 Cubanelle peppers or mild banana peppers, 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast, 1 cup salsa, 3/4 cup soft bread crumbs, 1/2 cup cooked long grain rice, 2 cups meatless pasta sauce
Preheat oven to 350°. Cut and discard tops from peppers; remove seeds. In a large bowl, mix eggs, chicken, salsa, bread crumbs and rice. Spoon into peppers. Spread pasta sauce onto bottom of a 13×9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with peppers. Bake, covered, 60-65 minutes or until peppers are tender and a thermometer inserted in stuffing reads at least 165°. Recipe fromTasteofHome.com
POACHED EGGS WITH CUBANELLE PEPPER PUREE
4 Cubanelles or Italian frying peppers, ¼ C plus 1T olive oil, plus more for brushing, ½ lb. mixed mushrooms, thickly sliced, 1 shallot, 1 clove garlic, 1T minced marjoram, salt and freshly ground pepper, 1 tsp. jalapeno hot sauce, 4 large eggs, 4 cubanelle peppers
Preheat the oven to 400°. On a baking sheet, brush the peppers with olive oil and roast for 20 minutes, turning once, until lightly browned and softened. Transfer the peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let cool for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Add the mushrooms and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until lightly browned, 4 minutes. Stir in the shallot, garlic and marjoram and cook until fragrant, 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and keep warm. Peel, core and seed the peppers. Transfer the peppers to a blender and puree. With the machine on, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil and the hot sauce and puree. Season with salt and pepper. Bring a large saucepan filled with 3 inches of water to a simmer. Crack each egg into a cup, then slide it into the water. Poach the eggs over low heat until the whites are set and the yolks are runny, 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, lift the eggs out of the water and blot them dry. Spoon the pepper puree onto plates and top with the mushrooms. Set the eggs on the mushrooms, season lightly with salt and pepper and serve.
CREAMY BROCCOLI AND LEEK BISQUE
1 T oil; 4 leeks thinly sliced; 3 garlic cloves, chopped; 4cps broth plus 2cps; 2 1bs. 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. 2) 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. 3) Return to it to saucepan, whisk in the remaining broth and milk, and reheat gently, stirring frequently. 4) Season with the lemon juice, hot pepper sauce, salt, and pepper, and serve topped with a lemon slice if desired.
CREAMY LEEK, POTATO, AND SOUR CREAM CHIVE SOUP
3 T butter, 2-3 leeks, thinly sliced (white and pale green parts only, about 4 cups total), 1t. dried tarragon, 1# Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, and thinly sliced, 4 cups chicken stock, ½-1cup sour cream, 4 T. fresh chopped chives, divided, salt and pepper.
Melt butter in pot over medium-low flame. Add leeks and tarragon; cover and cook slowly, 15-20 minutes. Add potatoes and stock; bring to simmer, cover, and cook until tender, 10-15 minutes. Puree mixture or mash with a potato masher. Return to pot; stir in sour cream and 2 T CHIVES. Add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle each serving with additional chives. Makes 6 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
LEEK, MUSHROOM AND LEMON RISOTTO
8 ounces trimmed leeks; 8 ounces mushrooms; 2 tbsp olive oil 3 garlic cloves, crushed; 6 tbsp butter; 1 large onion, roughly chopped scant 1 3/4 cups rice; 5 cups hot vegetable stock; grated zest and juice of l lemon; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup mixed chopped fresh chives and flat-leaf parsley; salt and freshly ground black pepper; lemon wedges and sprigs of flat-leaf parsley, to serve
Wash the leeks well. Slice in half lengthwise and roughly chop. Wipe the mushrooms with paper towels and roughly chop. Heat the oil in a large saucepan and cook the garlic for 1 minute. Add the leeks, mushrooms and plenty of seasoning and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until softened and browned. Remove from the pan and set aside. Add 2 tablespoons of the butter to the pan and cook the onion over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute. Add a ladleful of stock to the pan and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid is absorbed. Stir in more liquid as each ladleful is absorbed; this should take 20-25 minutes. The risotto will turn thick and creamy, and the rice should be tender but not sticky. Just before serving, stir in the leeks, mushrooms, remaining butter, grated lemon zest and 3 tablespoons of the juice, half the Parmesan and the herbs. Adjust the seasoning and serve, sprinkled with the remaining Parmesan and herbs. Serve with lemon wedges and sprigs of flat -leaf parsley. Serves 4
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 serving. Serves 6-8
“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.
SMASHED CELERY ROOT WITH HORSERADISH
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to mash; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 6 scallions, trimmed and chopped; 3 1/4 cups peeled and finely diced celery root; 3 1/4 cups peeled and finely diced potatoes; 2-inch piece of horseradish, peeled and finely grated (or 3 tablespoons ready-grated); 1 1/4 cups vegetable stock; 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaved parsley; salt and freshly ground black pepper
Heat the oil in a saucepan. Add the garlic and onion and sauté slowly for 5 minutes. Remove with a draining spoon and set aside. Add the celery root, potatoes, and horseradish to the pan and sauté for 5 minutes. Pour the stock into the saucepan and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove the lid and boil until the liquid is reduced to the point where almost nothing remains and the mixture is sticky. Stir in the reserved garlic and onion. Add the parsley, salt, and pepper and mash coarsely with a fork, beating in more olive oil to taste. Serves 4 Recipe from a handful of herbs.
KOHLRABI OR CELERIAC AND APPLE SALAD WITH CARAWAY
1 t. caraway seeds, T olive oil, 2T white wine vinegar, 1Tdijon mustard, kosher salt, freshly ground pepper, 2 medium kohlrabi or 1 medium celeriac, peeled, thinly sliced on a mandolin, 2 small heads frisee, torn into bite sized pieces (about 6 c.), 1 crisp red apple, thinly sliced, 4T chopped fresh chives, divided Toast caraway seeds in a small dry skillet over medium heat, tossing often until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Let cool, then coarsely chop. Whisk caraway, oil, vinegar and mustard in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Add kohlrabi, frisee, apple, and 2 T chives to bowl with dressing and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper. Top salad with remaining 2 T chives just before serving. Serves 4; Recipe from Bonappetit
CRUNCHY WINTER SLAW WITH ASIAN PEAR AND MANCHEGO
1/3 C raw pumpkin seeds, 1 t plus ¼ C olive oil, salt and pepper, 3 T fresh lemon juice, 1 T Dijon mustard, 2 t maple syrup, 4 C very thinly sliced green cabbage or fennel, 1 ½ C matchstick Asian pear, 1 ½ C matchstick peeled celery root (from about ¼ small) or celery, 3 oz Manchego cheese, shaved, divided
Preheat oven to 3500. Toss pumpkin seeds and 1 t olive oil on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Bake about 5 minutes; let cool. Finely chop 2 T pumpkin seeds. Whisk chopped pumpkin seeds, lemon juice, mustard, maple syrup, and remaining ¼ C olive oil in a medium bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper. Combine cabbage and or fennel, Asian pears, celery root, daikon, most of the Manchego, and remaining pumpkin seeds in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing over top and toss to combine; season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining Manchego
SALTED CELERIAC CHIPS
1 medium celeriac, peeled and thinly sliced 1/16″ thick1/4–1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, cooking spray
Preheat the oven to 375°F and coat 2 baking sheets with cooking spray. Blot dry, then proceed and lay the slices in a single layer on the baking sheets, coat with cooking spray, and sprinkle with the salt to taste and desired seasonings. Bake, rotating the sheets and swapping positions halfway through, until the edges begin to brown and dry out, 8 to 10 minutes for yucca, 15 to 20 minutes for the others. To test crispiness, let a chip cool on the counter for 30 seconds and taste. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Makes 1 serving; recipe from womean’shealthmag.com
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. Serves 4-6. Adapted from the Extending the Table; A World Community Cookbook, by Joetta Hendrich Schlabach.
KALE CHIPS
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F. Line a non-insulated cookie sheet with parchment paper. With a knife or kitchen shears carefully remove the leaves from the thick stems and tear into bite size pieces. Bake until the edges brown but are not burnt, 10 to 15 minutes. May be oiled or sprayed with cooking oil and sprinkled with garlic salt.
SIMPLE KALE & POTATO SOUP
1 medium (8 ounce) yellow or russet potato, scrubbed clean and chopped, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 2 cups vegetable stock, chicken stock, or water, 1/2 bunch kale (6 to 8 big leaves), preferably dino, lacinato, or Tuscan, 1 teaspoon lemon juice or cider vinegar, 1 to 2 large eggs, depending on your appetite, Salt and pepper, Grated Parmesan cheese, extra-virgin olive oil, or yogurt, to serve
Combine the chopped potato, garlic, salt, and stock (or water) in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. While the potatoes start to cook, chop the kale. Remove any thick, tough stems and chop them into small pieces. Add the chopped stems to the pot with the potatoes and simmer for 2 minutes.
Stack the leaves of kale on top of each other. Slice them crosswise into thin ribbons, and add them to the pot with the potatoes and kale stems. If necessary, add more stock or water to the pot to just about cover the kale.
Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 8 to 10 minutes. The soup is ready when the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork, and when a ribbon of kale has become tender, but has not yet become stringy or pulpy. Stir in the lemon juice or vinegar. Taste and season with more salt and fresh cracked pepper. Also add more stock or water if a more brothy soup is desired. To finish, crack the eggs into measuring cups, and then gently slide them into the soup. Ladle some of the soup broth on top of the eggs to submerge them. Put the lid back on the pot and cook for 4 minutes. When done, the whites of the eggs should be opaque, but the yolk should still be soft. If the eggs break into the soup before they are poached, just use a fork to swirl them into the soup, like egg drop soup.
ROASTED POTATOES WITH SOUTHWESTERN SPICES
Cut potatoes into bite sized pieces coat with olive oil. Roast in 425-degree oven for 20-30 minutes or until done. While the potatoes roast, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small skillet over medium heat. When the butter starts to sizzle, add 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 medium garlic clove, minced, and cook 1 fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer roasted potatoes to a serving bowl. Pour spiced butter over the potatoes, toss, and serve immediately.
CRISPY FINGERLING POTATOES
1 1/2 pounds fingerling potatoes, Kosher salt, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon grill seasoning, 2 teaspoons paprika, freshly ground black pepper,
Put the potatoes into a large pot and cover them with water. Add a big pinch of salt, then cover, and put over high heat. Bring to a boil, uncover, and cook just until the potatoes start to soften but are not cooked all the way through, about 10 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the warm pot. Shake the potatoes around to roughen up the sides and to let them dry out. Put them into a bowl. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Put a baking sheet in the oven to preheat. Add the olive oil, grill seasoning, paprika and pepper, to taste, to the potatoes and toss to coat. Spread the potatoes out onto the preheated baking sheet and roast them until they are cooked through and crispy, about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the potatoes once halfway through the cooking time. Remove the potatoes from the oven to a serving bowl and serve.
Recipe courtesy of Sandra Le; Food Network
GARLIC ROASTED POTATOES AND CARROTS
1 lb. small potatoes, whole, or larger potatoes cut into chunks; 1/2 lb. baby carrots, whole or large carrots cut up; 1 tbsp. olive oil; 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper, 1 clove garlic, minced, 2 tsp. fresh thyme, mined
Heat oven to 400 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, baby carrots, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme. Stir to mix well. Pour the potato-carrot mixture into an oven-safe large skillet (or can spread out on a rimmed baking sheet lined with tin foil). Heat oven to 400 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, baby carrots, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme. Stir to mix well. Pour the potato-carrot mixture into an oven-safe large skillet (or can spread out on a rimmed baking sheet lined with tin foil). Place the skillet into the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes and carrots are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork. Servings: 4; Recipe from Center Cut Cook
CARROT VICHY SOUP
1 large russet potato, pared and sliced; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tbsp butter, melted; 1/2 lb. pared, sliced carrots; 1 leek, thinly sliced or 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 3/4 cups half-and-half; 1 ½ cups boiling water; Tabasco pepper sauce to taste; 2 tsp instant chicken bouillon; Minced fresh parsley
Combine potatoes, carrots, leeks or onion, boiling water, bouillon, and salt in large heavy saucepan. Cook, covered until very tender, about 25 minutes. Puree in blender or food processor. Beat in butter or margarine, half-and-half, and Tabasco” to taste. Chill and serve cold or reheat over low heat, beating with wire whisk to blend well. Top with a bit of minced parsley. Note: You may want to season with more Tabasco’ if soup is to be served cold. Makes 3 to4 servings
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.
DILLY SLAW
4 cups shredded veggies (carrots, Hakurei turnips, radish, kohlrabi), 5 scallions chopped
Dressing: 3⁄4 cup yogurt or 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise, 2 Tbs. lime juice, 2 Tbs. cider vinegar, 1 Tbs. honey, 1⁄4 cup dill, 1 tsp. salt, 3 garlic scapes or cloves of garlic, minced
Blend dressing and toss with veggies. If time, let chill and stir occasionally so the dressing can soak into the veggies. Recipe from Red Fire Farm, Granby MA
ROASTED CARROTS
12 carrots, 3 tablespoons good olive oil, 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons minced fresh dill or parsley
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. If the carrots are thick, cut them in half lengthwise; if not, leave whole. Slice the carrots diagonally in 1 1/2-inch-thick slices. (The carrots will shrink while cooking so make the slices big.) Toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Transfer to a sheet pan in 1 layer and roast in the oven for 20 minutes, until browned and tender. Toss the carrots with minced dill or parsley, season to taste, and serve. Recipe from Ina Garten Foodnetwork.com
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
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