Summer Share Twenty-Four November 2nd/4th 2021

Posted by on Nov 2, 2021 in Uncategorized

Important information:

  • This is the final produce and fruit share.
  • Please return all boxes.
  • Winter share final payments are due today; information will be sent out in the next two weeks.

Farm News from Jane
The last summer share; do I hear a sigh? Hopefully that is a sign of a bittersweet ending. Unless of course you’re signed up for a winter share, then all the goodness keeps rolling in. All except for the peppers which did not like the cold nights and have finally succumbed to the autumn’s chill. We are in the process of harvesting the last of the potatoes this week and then we’ll concentrate on the beets, celeriac and rutabaga. The carrots and parsnips will be fine even after a hard frost; they and the brussels sprouts will actually be sweeter then. There are just a few more trays of salad greens seedlings to be transplanted in the high tunnels and all of the earlier plantings look great. We will be glad when things finally “wind down” and we can put all the fields to rest for the winter. But wait, there is still garlic to be planted outside. We like to wait until the weather turns cold so that their sprouts do not grow too tall underground and get damaged by the frozen ground. They are planted as deep as possible to prevent this from happening. But enough about winter. We want to enjoy this fall season for as long as possible. So, get out your wool sweaters and take a walk to enjoy all the colorful trees before they drop the rest of their leaves. They seem to be hanging on quite a long time this year. I remember the autumn of ‘97 the leaves didn’t drop until the first wet snow in November. History does repeat itself they say…
Thanks for all your support and encouragement to us and our farm and family this season. We look forward to growing for you again next season. We’ll be sending out the membership enrollment information next week; JUMP on it, don’t wait until next spring to reserve your share! You’ll have something to look forward to all winter! Blessing from all of us to all of you. Much appreciation, Jane, Ben and family

Produce:   Fennel   green Kale   Broccoli   Romanesco/Cauliflower   Watermelon radishes   Garlic   Cabbage   Colorful Carrots   Spanish onions   Yukon Gold potatoes   Autumn Frost squash

Produce tips:
– There was a report of some free loaders on the broccoli last week. Please examine or soak in salt water before cooking/serving.
– Fennel can be eaten fresh in a salad or prepped in a variety of ways. See recipe suggestions.
– Autumn Frost squash has a similar texture and sweetness to butternut but has a denser texture. Use it as a substitute for acorn, butternut, or Delicata.
– Romanesco is actually a broccoli cousin rather than a cauliflower one. It does cook up like a cauliflower though. Substitute for either in recipes.

Fruit share:      Fuji apples      Cameo apples
– Cameo apples don’t brown quickly when cut, so they’re ideally suited to fresh applications like salads and cheese boards. Their sweetness is enhanced and their texture holds up when cooked, so they’re also great for pies, cobblers and pastries. Their parentage is uncertain but found near Delicious/Golden delicious orchards.
– Fuji apples originated as a cross between two American apple varieties—the Red Delicious and old Virginia Ralls Janet apples. Firm, crisp, and juicy, Fuji apples are among the most popular apples for eating fresh, but they’re also great for baking, as they hold their shape when they cook.

Recipes
WARM BAVARIAN-STYLE POTATO SALAD WITH SAUSAGE
2 pounds Yukon Gold or large fingerling potatoes, scrubbed; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon prepared hot mustard; 3/4 cup chopped onion; salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup apple cider or chicken stock; 3/4-pound pork sausage links; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh parsley
Cook potatoes in salted water until barely tender. Drain, cool slightly, peel, and slice 1/3-inch thick. Meanwhile, make sauce: Combine remaining ingredients (except parsley) in saucepan, bring to simmer, and cook 5-7 minutes. Gently toss with potatoes. Heat oven to 450 degrees. Arrange sausages on baking sheet; bake 8-10 minutes. Cut each link into 4 pieces. Add sausages and parsley to potatoes; mix gently. Season with salt and pepper. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from MACSAC

SMASHED YUKON GOLD POTATOES WITH BLUE CHEESE AND TOASTED NUTS
2 pounds young Yukon Gold potatoes (unpeeled); 4 tablespoons butter, softened; 1/2 cup milk or cream; salt and pepper; 1/2-pound blue cheese, crumbled; 1/4-pound (about 1 cup) nuts
Cook potatoes and place in large bowl. Add butter, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper (or to taste). Smash with fork, leaving some large pieces. Lightly toss in blue cheese. Sprinkle with nuts. Makes 6 servings.

GRILLED (OR GRIDDLED) FENNEL AND ONIONS WITH PARMESAN
1/2 large sweet onion (do not cut off root end); 2 fennel bulbs (stalks removed), about 1 pound total; 2 tablespoons olive oil; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Heat large cast-iron griddle (flat side down, ridged side up) on stove top over medium flame, or prepare outdoor grill for medium heat. Place flat surface of onion half on cutting board and cut into slices that are 1/3-inch thick, leaving some of the root end intact on each slice. Brush both sides of onions lightly with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Grill onions on both sides until tender and lightly charred, 3-5 minutes per side. Meanwhile, slice whole fennel bulbs lengthwise in the same manner as onions. Steam them over boiling water 8-10 minutes; drain well. Brush lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill on both sides until tender and lightly charred, 6-8 minutes per side. Arrange onions and fennel on a colorful platter; scatter Parmesan over the top. This is delicious with grilled fish or lamb, or as a side dish with Italian tomato-based pasta dishes. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from MACSAC

CARROT FENNEL ORANGE SOUP
2 tablespoons butter or butter-flavored cooking spray; 4 cups water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth (or more for a thinner soup); 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced (reserve a few of the fronds); 1/2 teaspoon salt, or more to taste; 4 cups sliced carrots (approximately 1 1/2 pounds); 1/3 cup orange juice; 1 garlic clove, sliced thin (you can add a couple of garlic scapes, if available); 1/4 cup sour cream
Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced fennel and cook, stirring often, until soft and beginning to turn golden. Add carrots and garlic; cook and stir for a minute or two. Add water or broth and salt; bring to simmer, cover, and cook until carrots and fennel are tender, about 20 minutes. Puree mixture in a food processor or blender, or with an immersion blender. Stir in orange juice and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Reheat on low heat, but do not boil. Serve each bowl garnished with fennel fronds. Makes 4 servings. Recipe from Edith Thayer, Vermont Valley Farm member

FRESH FENNEL BULB SALAD
One large or 2 small fennel bulbs; 2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate, partially thawed; 2 tablespoons white wine or red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; salt and pepper
Remove fronds from the fennel bulb(s). Cut away the root and slice fennel into very thin pieces (it can also be grated). Make dressing by combining vinegar, mustard, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and orange juice concentrate in a bowl. Gradually whisk in olive oil. Pour over fennel and allow to marinate at room temperature 20 minutes or longer. Season to taste with pepper and additional salt.
Recipe from Jenny Bonde and Rink DoVee, Shooting Star Farm

PASTA WITH FENNEL
1 bulb fennel, trimmed & quartered; 1/2 lb. fettuccini; 1 Tbsp olive oil; Grated Parmesan cheese; Parsley (garnish)
Simmer fennel in 4 quarts salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Lift fennel from water and slice. Keep warm. In the fennel water, cook the fettuccini until al dente. Drain pasta. Add olive oil and fennel. Serve with sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley. Make 3 servings

POTATO FENNEL SOUP
1 tbsp butter or oil; 4 cups thinly sliced onions; 2 tsp salt; 4 medium potatoes, sliced into thin pieces 1-2 inches long; 1 cup minced fennel bulb; ½ tsp caraway seed; 4 cups water; white pepper to taste; sour cream and fennel fronds for garnish
Melt the butter or heat oil in a kettle or Dutch oven. Add the onions and 1 tsp of salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the onions are very soft and lightly browned. Add the potatoes, another ½ tsp salt, fennel and caraway seeds. Sauté over medium heat for another 5 minutes, then add the water. Bring to a boil, then partially cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust salt; add white pepper. Serve hot topped with sour cream and fennel fronds. Serves 6. Recipe from The Moosewood Cookbook.

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 or daikon radish, 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

GREEN GOBBLIN’ SALAD: FENNEL, APPLE, BROCCOLI & AVOCADO
1 head fennel, stems from one head of broccoli, 1 green apple (unpeeled), 1 avocado, 2 handfuls chopped walnuts (or to taste), ½ lime, salt and pepper to taste
Cut up fennel, broccoli, apple and avocado into bite-sized pieces. (I use this order to keep the apple and avocado from turning brown.) If the broccoli stems are long, you can grate them. Add walnuts. Squeeze in juice of ½ lime. (If you want to take this a step further, zest the lime before you squeeze it.) Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently (so you don’t mush the avocado) but thoroughly to distribute the lime juice, salt and pepper. Recipe form thwbottomline.com

ROASTED RADISHES

Radishes, olive oil, salt and freshly ground pepper, lemon juice
Toss radishes with oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet at 450 degrees, stirring once, until slightly tender and charred, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with salt. Drizzle with lemon juice.

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

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

ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP WITH ORZO AND MEATBALLS
Meatballs: 1/2 # lean ground beef, 1/4 # lean ground pork, 1/3 C dried bread crumbs, 3 T chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, 3 T grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped, 2 T chopped fresh oregano, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 egg, beaten, pinch grated nutmeg, pinch paprika
Soup: 2 T unsalted butter, 1 medium white onion, finely chopped, 1 medium carrot, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, to taste, 4 C chicken broth, 1 (28-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, drained, 1 C uncooked whole wheat orzo, 2 C shredded kale
For the meatballs, combine beef, pork, bread crumbs, parsley, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, egg, nutmeg, and paprika in a large bowl and use your hands to mix well. Use a teaspoon to measure out meat for even sized meatballs. With damp hands, shape them into 1-inch balls and transfer them to a large plate. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.
For the soup, melt butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, garlic, salt and pepper and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Stir in broth, tomatoes, and 2 cups water. Cover and cook 10 minutes over medium heat or until soup comes to a boil.
Add meatballs and orzo to the boiling soup and stir to make sure they are fully submerged. Cover and simmer until the meatballs and orzo are fully cooked, about 15 minutes over medium heat. Stir in kale and cook just until wilted, about 3 minutes. Recipe form Wholefoodsmarket.com

SAUSAGE, WHITE BEAN AND KALE SOUP
1 T olive oil, ½ lb. bulk Italian pork sausage, 2 C diced onions, 3/4teaspoon salt, 1 bunch kale, ribs removed, thinly sliced, 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped, 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained, 2 cans (19 oz each) cannellini beans, drained, rinsed, 1carton (32 oz) unsalted chicken broth, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
In a 6-quart Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Crumble sausage into hot oil; cook until no longer pink. Transfer with slotted spoon to plate; set aside. Add onions and salt to Dutch oven; cook 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until translucent. Stir in kale; cook about 1 minute or until slightly wilted. Stir in garlic. Stir in tomatoes, beans, broth and sausage; heat to a simmer. Simmer uncovered 5 minutes to combine flavors. Divide among 8 bowls; top with cheese. Recipe from Bettycrocker.com

BERRY KALICIOUS
1c frozen blueberries, 1/2 c frozen strawberries, 1/2c frozen raspberries, 7 pitted dates, 1+1/2 C kale, or baby kale (stripped from stalks, chopped and rinsed)
Place all ingredients in a blender and blend from low to high speed until smooth. Add an additional ¼ C of water if too thick. Recipe from Kale, Glorious Kale by Catherine Walthers

KALE & CHEESE QUESADILLAS
½ bunch kale, stripped from stalk, chopped into bite sized pieces and rinsed (about 4 cups), 2 c shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack or a combination), 1/4 C chopped green chiles (optional), 1t ground cumin, 1/T chili powder, 1 (8-10 count) package flour tortillas, 4 t canola or olive oil
Bring 3 to 4 C of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add kale and cook on high heat, covered for 4 to 5 minutes. Drain in a colander; shake several times to help cool. When cool, squeeze out any excess water, and then break any clumps apart. In a large bowl, combine the cheese, green chiles, cumin, and chili powder with the kale. Heat an 11-12-inch skillet on medium heat and pour about 1 t of oil to coat pan. Place a tortilla in the skillet. Put a generous 1/2C of the cheese mixture in the idle of the tortilla. Place another tortilla on top. When the tortilla is lightly browned, flip over. The quesadilla is done when the cheese is melted, 3-4 minutes. Repeat for the other quesadillas. Cut into wedges and serve – a pizza cutter works great to cut quesadillas. Recipe from Kale, Glorious Kale by Catherine Walthers

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

CREAMY POTATO KALE SOUP

5 tablespoons butter, 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped, 3 large potatoes, peeled and roughly chopped, 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth, 2-3 cups chopped kale, stems removed, 2 cups milk, salt and pepper to taste

Heat the butter in a large pot over medium high heat. Add the onions and potatoes and sauté until golden brown, 5-8 minutes, sprinkling with salt and pepper. Add 6 cups of the broth and the kale; simmer for 5-10 minutes until the kale softens and becomes a darker green. Transfer the soup to a heavy-duty blender. Puree for 2-3 minutes or until the soup is completely smooth. Transfer the pureed soup back the pan and stir in the milk and the remaining 2 cups broth depending on how thick you want the soup to be. Season with salt and pepper and serve with yummy paninis, toasted wheat bread, or crackers, cheese, and hummus.

Notes: This recipe is very adaptable – add more herbs, use more potatoes, more kale, more broth, etc. Also note: the more kale you add, the brighter green your soup will be! Also, the longer you cook the onions and potatoes the more it “dulls” the flavor. You want them to be sautéed and golden, but not totally mushy.

HERBED CARROT SOUP
2 lbs. carrots, 1 medium potato, 4 c. water, 1T butter or oil, 1 c chopped onion, 11/2 t salt, 2 medium cloves garlic; minced, ½ t marjoram or oregano, 1 t basil, 1-2 T lemon juice (or to taste), optional: small amounts of finely minced fresh mint, chives and or parsley for the top.
Peel and chop the carrots and potato, and place them in a medium-large saucepan with the water. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer until the vegetables are tender (10-15 minutes). Meanwhile, heat oil in a small skillet. Add onions and salt, and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and dried herbs and sauté about 5 minutes more, or until the onions are soft. Stir in lemon juice. Purée everything together in a blender or food processor and transfer to a kettle or Dutch oven. Simmer gently 8-10 minutes. Serve hot, topped with a light sprinkling of fresh herbs if desired. Recipe from The New Moosewood Cookbook

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

ASIAN PEANUT NOODLE SLAW WITH SHREDDED CHICKEN
Cook 4 oz. spaghetti according to package directions about ten minutes. Drain and rinse to cool. In a large bowl, whisk 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter, ¼ cup water, 3 T each seasoned rice vinegar and lime juice, 1 T packed brown sugar, 1T low sodium soy sauce and 1 tsp. (or to taste) siracha until smooth. Add spaghetti, 21/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 6 cups shredded cabbage, 2 cups shredded carrots, 3 thinly sliced scallions and 1/3 cup roughly chopped cilantro or parsley. Toss well. Scatter ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts over the top. Recipe form FAMILYCIRCLE.COM

BALSAMIC ROASTED CARROTS
1 T olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp ground black pepper, ½# carrots, 2T balsamic vinegar
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil. Combine olive oil, salt, pepper, and carrots in a bag or bowl; toss to coat. Pour the carrots into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven until tender, about 30 minutes. Sprinkle the balsamic vinegar over the carrots; shake the pan to coat evenly. Return to oven and bake until the liquid is absorbed, 5 to 10 minutes. Serve hot.
Recipe from Allrecipe.com

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

CABBAGE AND FENNEL WITH PARSLEY-LEMON BUTTER
1/2 small green cabbage; 1 large fennel bulb, quartered; 1 large leek, white part only; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; sea salt and freshly ground pepper; juice and zest of 1 lemon; 3 tbsp chervil or parsley leaves
Cut the cabbage, fennel, and leek into very thin slices and wash. Don’t dry, though. Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large, wide skillet. Add the vegetables and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cover the pan and cook gently for 10 minutes. Check after 5 minutes and make sure there’s a little moisture so that the vegetables steam and don’t brown. Meanwhile, simmer the lemon juice in a small skillet until only 1 tablespoon remains. Remove from the heat and whisk in the remaining butter. Finely chop the lemon zest with the chervil. Stir half into the butter and add the other half to the vegetables. Toss well, taste for salt; add remaining butter. Season with pepper. Serves 4

IRISH CABBAGE AND BACON
12 strips bacon or other pork equivalent, 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped, 6 cloves garlic; chopped, 2 carrots; chopped, 1-pound potatoes; chopped, Dijon mustard
Add bacon to a pan that will hold all ingredients and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and add cabbage, potatoes, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender. Drain most of liquid except about a cup and set into serving dish. While vegetables are boiling, sauté onions in butter or oil on medium heat until browned and caramelized. Set atop cabbage mix and serve with hot, spicy mustard! Yum!
Serves 4 – 6 Recipe from Red Fire Farm

PANERA BREAD’S AUTUMN SQUASH SOUP
1 large butternut squash, 2-3 tbsp. extra virgin coconut oil, Salt and pepper to taste, 2 cups apple juice, 1 15 oz. can pumpkin, 1+ 1/2 cups vegetable broth, 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or substitute almond milk or coconut milk if vegan, 1+ 1/2 tbsp. honey, 1/4 tsp. curry powder, 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1 1/2 tsp. sea salt or kosher salt, 1/4 tsp. black pepper, roasted pumpkin seeds for garnish
Preheat oven to 450°. Peel squash. Remove seeds and cut in chunks. Place in baking dish or on cookie sheet and drizzle with oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Bake at 450° for 25-30 minutes or until fork tender. Mash squash with a potato masher and place in a large stock pot. Add pumpkin, apple juice, half-and-half and vegetable broth. Puree ingredients with an immersion blender until well mixed. Add honey, curry, cinnamon, salt and pepper and heat through about 10-15 minutes at a low simmer. To serve, garnish bowls of soup with roasted pumpkin seeds. Adjust the apple juice, vegetable broth and half-and-half according to how large your butternut squash is. If the squash is smaller, decrease liquids. If it’s a whopper you may have to increase this amount. I increased these amounts above the original recipe because I had a whopper butternut squash. Recipe from https://cantstayoutofthekitchen.com

SIMPLE ROASTED SQUASH RECIPE

Autumn Frost squash; 1 tbsp olive oil, pinch of sea salt and pepper, to taste, pinch paprika, dried herb mix such as Italian, oregano, thyme
Pre-heat oven to 400F degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking oil
Wash squash skin thoroughly. Slice in round, then slice round in half. Remove seeds. Season with oil, salt, pepper, paprika and herbs and place in baking sheet. Roast for approximately 40-45 minutes or until edges start to turn golden brown. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve. Recipe from https://gardeninthekitchen.com

BUTTERNUT SQUASH MAC & CHEESE
2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil), 12 fresh sage leaves (optional), 3 large cloves garlic, minced, 1 pound (about 4 cups) diced butternut squash, 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock), 1 # uncooked pasta (I used shells), 2 cups whole milk, 8 ounces good-quality sharp cheddar cheese, shredded*, fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste
Bring a large pot of generously-salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, heat the butter in a separate large sauté pan until melted.  Add the sage leaves (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until crispy.  Transfer the sage leaves to a separate plate and set aside. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.  Then add in the butternut squash and vegetable stock and stir to combine.  Continue cooking until the stock reaches a simmer.  Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and mashes easily with a fork. Transfer the squash mixture to a blender.  Add in the milk and give the mixture a quick stir.  Then very carefully (I recommend slightly opening the cap on the blender lid, so that excess steam can escape) pulse the mixture until smooth. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.  Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water for later.  Then drain the pasta. While the pasta is cooking, return the butternut squash mixture back to the sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until it has melted into the sauce. Taste and season the sauce with salt and pepper as needed.  (I used about 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.) Then once the pasta is drained, return it to the stockpot.  Pour the butternut cheese sauce on top of the pasta, and toss to combine.  If the sauce is too thick, add in some of the hot starchy pasta water to thin it out. Serve warm, garnished with the crispy sage leaves if desired. Recipe from Gimmesomeoven.com

ROASTED ACORN SQUASH SALAD
1 acorn squash – peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes, 2 T olive oil, ½ t cinnamon, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, 3 T apple cider vinegar, 2 T maple syrup, 1 T Dijon mustard, 1 tsp grated orange zest, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 clove garlic, minced, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ C olive oil, 5 oz. baby arugula, ¼ C dried cranberries, ¼ C chopped pistachios
Position a rack into the center position of the oven and preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet or jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Spread acorn squash cubes onto prepared baking sheet and toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Mix cinnamon, onion powder, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl; sprinkle spice mixture over squash cubes. Bake on the center rack of preheated oven until squash are tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Whisk apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, orange zest, garam masala, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a bowl until thoroughly combined; slowly drizzle olive oil into vinegar mixture, whisking constantly, until olive oil incorporates into the dressing. Refrigerate while completing remaining steps. Toss cooked acorn squash cubes, baby arugula, cranberries, pistachios, and goat cheese in a salad bowl; drizzle with dressing and serve. Recipe from Allrecipes.com

CREAM OF BROCCOLI SOUP
5 tablespoons butter, divided, 1 onion, chopped, 1 stalk celery, chopped; 3 cups chicken broth; 8 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; ground black pepper to taste
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in medium sized stock pot, and saute onion and celery until tender. Add broccoli and broth, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Pour the soup into a blender, filling the pitcher no more than halfway full. Hold down the lid of the blender with a folded kitchen towel, and carefully start the blender, using a few quick pulses to get the soup moving before leaving it on to puree. Puree in batches until smooth and pour into a clean pot. Alternately, you can use a stick blender and puree the soup right in the cooking pot. In small saucepan, over medium-heat melt 3 tablespoons butter, stir in flour and add milk. Stir until thick and bubbly, and add to soup. Season with pepper and serve.

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

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

ROASTED ROMANESCO
1 head Romanesco (also known as Romanesque cauliflower or Romanesco broccoli), cut into bite-size pieces, 1 T olive oil, salt, pepper, pinch of garlic powder and paprika
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spread Romanesco onto the prepared baking sheet; drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Roast in the preheated oven until tender, 15 to 20 minutes.

PASTA WITH ROASTED ROMANESCO AND CAPERS
¼ cup chopped almonds, ¼ cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil; plus more for drizzling, 2 tablespoons drained capers, patted dry, divided, Kosher salt, ½ medium Romanesco or cauliflower, cored, cut into small florets
8 garlic cloves, very thinly sliced, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving, ½ cup dry white wine, 12 ounces lumaconi (snail shells) or other medium shell pasta, 2 ounces aged Asiago cheese or Pecorino, finely grated, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Preheat oven to 425°. Cook almonds, ¼ cup oil, and 1 Tbsp. capers in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, swirling pan occasionally, until capers burst and almonds are golden brown and smell toasty, about 5 minutes. Transfer almonds and capers with a slotted spoon to a small bowl; season with salt. Let cool. Toss Romanesco with oil from saucepan on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt. Roast, tossing halfway through, until golden brown and tender, 20–25 minutes. Meanwhile, heat 3 Tbsp. oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot over medium-high. Add garlic, ½ tsp. red pepper flakes, and remaining 1 Tbsp. capers and cook, stirring often, until garlic is golden, about 3 minutes. Add wine and cook until liquid is almost completely evaporated, about 2 minutes. Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until very al dente, about 3 minutes less than package directions. Using a spider or a slotted spoon, transfer pasta to pot with garlic; add 1 cup pasta cooking liquid. Reduce heat to medium and cook, tossing often, until pasta is al dente and liquid is slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Add ¼ cup pasta cooking liquid, then gradually add cheese, tossing until melted and dissolved into a luxurious, glossy sauce. Remove from heat; add butter and toss to combine. Toss in Romanesco. Divide pasta among bowls. Top with fried almonds and capers and more red pepper flakes and drizzle with oil.

BRAISED CAULIFLOWER & SQUASH PENNE PASTA
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 3 large cloves garlic, 1 tsp. dried thyme, ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper, 4 C. “no-chicken broth”, 8 oz. whole wheat penne, (about 3 cups), 2 C. cauliflower florets, 2 C. 1/in. pieces peeled butternut squash, freshly ground pepper to taste, ¼ C Pecorino Romano cheese
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic, thyme and crushed red pepper and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add broth, penne, cauliflower and squash. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a lively simmer and cook, uncovered, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is thickened and greatly reduced, 14 to 16 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in pepper and let stand for 5 minutes. Serve topped with cheese.
Recipe form www.eatingwell.com

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
1 head (about 2 1/4 pound) cauliflower, trimmed and cut into florets, 3 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced, ¼ cup olive, 2 T lemon juice
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place cauliflower in a large mixing bowl. Pour on enough olive oil to coat (a few tablespoons). Lay cauliflower pieces out on a baking sheet. Drizzle any remaining oil from the bowl on top. Bake, turning once, until caramelized on edges and tender, 25 to 30 minutes.

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.

BRAISED WINTER VEGETABLE PASTA
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage or 1 teaspoon dried rubbed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 8 ounces whole-wheat medium pasta shells or other small pasta; 2 cups bite-size cauliflower florets; 2 cups bite-size butternut squash cubes; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Freshly ground pepper to taste; 10-ounce bag frozen lima beans, thawed
Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and sage and cook, stirring, until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add broth and wine; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add pasta, cauliflower, squash, salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is not quite tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in lima beans and cook, stirring occasionally, until the lima beans and pasta are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes more.

CRISPED CAULIFLOWER
1 head cauliflower; 4 eggs; 1 cup flour; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 1 clove garlic, chopped; Freshly ground black pepper; Light vegetable oil
Remove all leaves from cauliflower. Break into medium florets. Beat eggs. Place flour in flattish bowl and mix with half the onion, garlic, and pepper. Heat l/2-inch oil in frying pan. Dip florets in egg, roll in flour, and place in hot oil along with remaining onion, garlic, and pepper. Once brown and crisp, remove and drain on paper towels. Serves 4. Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.

GREEN CAULIFLOWER WITH PARSLEY AND GREEN OLIVES

1 large head cauliflower, broccoli, or Romanesco; 1 bunch flat-leaf parsley, stems removed, leaves finely chopped; 2 tablespoons finely chopped tarragon; 1/2 cup chopped Spanish green olives; 2 tablespoons drained capers, rinsed; 1/3 cup olive oil; sea salt and freshly ground pepper; Manchego cheese
Cut the cauliflower into small florets; peel and dice the stems. Put the parsley, tarragon, and olives in a bowl with the capers, oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and plenty of pepper.  Steam the cauliflower over salted boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes. Dump it into the bowl and toss well. Taste for salt and season with pepper. Serve with a little Manchego cheese grated or shaved over the top. Serves 4-6 Recipe from Local Flavors.