Summer Share Twenty October 4th 2022

Posted by on Oct 4, 2022 in Uncategorized

Important information:

  • This is an even biweekly distribution for the farm and city sites; two more biweekly shares after this one.
  • The Winter Share enrollment is available online @ https://promisedlandcsa.com/csa/sign-up/
    Shares are limited; please don’t wait.
  • Our annual field walk and potluck will be held on Sunday October 9th; details below.

 

  • 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 pets at home; thanks!

Farm News from Jane
What a different Monday harvest it was this week. It was quite chilly but nice and dry. Everyone agreed that today’s conditions were preferable. It is nice to see the sun again after about two weeks of rain! There was a light frost this morning but only a few things were touched and that included a problem weed in the beets so there’s always a silver lining! Hopefully we’ll have a few more weeks of seasonable temperatures to mature the rest of the vegetables like the Brussel sprouts and cabbage. We harvested a few varieties of potatoes for winter storage today. We also harvested the first of the Dinosaur kale. It is a more delicate textured kale but still holds up well to the cold. And we cut all the eggplant as the top leaves were touched by the frost. It was a dry summer and we chose to plant them a bit later this year to avoid the bug damage. Although the plants were beautiful, they set their blossoms late and so the yield was light. But we are very happy to know that we can indeed (with a lot of bug vigilance) grow eggplants again!
Most of the high tunnel tomatoes were removed late last week and the next day we began the process of renovating the beds for replanting. The first seedlings to be planted was the Salanova lettuce mix. That is the colorful lettuce mix that you enjoyed earlier in the season. There are more lettuces, chard, kales and celery to plant yet this month. Other beds will be planted in the late winter/early spring with crops that will not tolerate the extreme temperatures of winter.
The Canada geese are honking, calling each other to formation now. Most will head south but there are always a few that must think the area has enough to keep them fed and sheltered. The gathering flocks of birds are winding down. But those rascal blue jays who stay are feasting on the acorns which are abundant from the Pin oaks around the farmstead. Because there are plenty they don’t seem to be “fighting” over them this year with all that squawking! The chipmunks and squirrels have stored plenty away as well, I’m sure. Nature is preparing like we are for those long winter months. It will be nice to have lots of yummy vegetables stored to create all those nutritious and delicious, warming winter suppers.
So, whether autumn or winter it is a great time for feasting for all of us! Blessings, Jane

Produce:   Dinosaur kale   Carrots   Red Nordana potatoes   Eggplant   Red peppers   Garlic
Tues. Cauliflower/Thurs. Broccoli   Napa cabbage   Celeriac   Chioggia beets   Delicata squash

Fruit:     Honey Crisp and Cortland apples – Cortland’s make great pies and sauce!

Produce tips:
– Dino kale is named for its pebbled leaf texture. It is also known as Lacinato or Tuscany kale. It is generally the variety one uses for massaged kale salad. See recipes below.
– Celeriac is also known as root celery. Peel and use for soups, stews – add to mashed potatoes or an oven roasted vegetable medley. It will brown once peeled, so soak in water like potatoes until ready to cook.
– Eggplant come in three different colors; purple, lavender and white. Use interchangeably in recipes. Due to the coming killing frost we harvested it all regardless of size. There are a variety of recipes to utilize no matter the size…
– Delicata squash is a cousin to the acorn. It is creamier in texture and sweeter.
– Chioggia beets are the candy-striped variety and so are great for salads; delicious artwork!

Recipes
ACORN SQUASH STUFFED WITH KALE & WHITE BEANS
1 medium acorn squash, halved;  and seeded; 1/2 tsp plus 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, divided; 1/4 cup chopped onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp water; 1/2 tbsp tomato paste; 4 cups chopped kale leaves; 1/2 15 ounce can white beans, rinsed;  1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives; 1/4 cup coarse dry whole-wheat breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cut a small slice off the bottom of each squash half so it rests flat. Brush the insides with 1 teaspoon oil; sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Place in a 9-by-13-inch (or similar-size) microwave-safe dish. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on High until the squash is fork-tender, about 12 minutes.  Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion; cook, stirring, until starting to brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in water, tomato paste and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Stir in kale, cover and cook until tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in white beans and olives; cook until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes more. Remove from the heat. Position rack in center of oven; preheat broiler. Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan and the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a bowl. Fill each squash half with about 1 cup of the chard mixture. Place in a baking pan or on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture. Broil in the center of the oven until the breadcrumbs are browned, 1 to 2 minutes.

DELICATA SQUASH WITH ORANGE & PISTACHIOS
1-pound Delicata squash (about 1 large); 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 2 shallots, halved and sliced; 1 teaspoon orange zest; 31/4 cup orange juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped salted pistachios
Cut squash in half lengthwise; scoop out the seeds. Thinly slice crosswise. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and cook, stirring, until softened and beginning to brown, about 2 minutes. Add the squash, orange zest and juice, salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and cook, stirring once, until the squash is almost tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the squash is tender and beginning to brown, 12 to 15 minutes more. Serve sprinkled with pistachios.  Makes: 4 servings, about 1 cup each

CRANBERRY-APRICOT DELICATA SQUASH
1-pound Delicata squash (about 1 large); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider or apple juice; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives; 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds
Cut squash in quarters lengthwise; scoop out the seeds. Very thinly slice crosswise. Bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a sauce pan fitted with a steamer basket. Steam the squash until just tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Whisk oil, cider (or juice), salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add the squash, apricots cranberries and chives; toss to coat. Serve sprinkled with almonds. Makes, 4 servings

ROASTED DELICATA SQUASH WITH ONIONS
2 pounds Delicata squash (about 2 large), 1 medium red onion, sliced, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Preheat oven to 425°F. Cut squash in half lengthwise, then crosswise; scoop out the seeds. Cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick wedges. Toss with onion, 1 tablespoon oil and salt in a large bowl. Spread in an even layer on a baking sheet. Roast, stirring once or twice, until tender and beginning to brown, about 30 minutes. Combine the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, rosemary, syrup and mustard in a small bowl. Toss the vegetables with the dressing. Recipe from Eating Well.com Makes 4 servings, about 1 cup each

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

KALE SALAD WITH POMEGRANATE AND MAPLE PECANS
Salad
: 12 oz Tuscan kale, deveined and sliced into ½ in. ribbons (8c.), 1 large red apple, cored, quartered, and thinly sliced (1+1/4 c), ½ pomegranate seeds, 1+1/2 OZ. Gouda, thinly shaved with vegetable peeler. To assemble salad: place kale in large bowl; gently massage 3 T vinaigrette into leaves to ensure even coverage. Gently toss with apple and pomegranate seeds, and transfer to serving bowl. Top with maple pecans and shaved Gouda.
Maple pecans: ½ c. pecan pieces, 1T maple syrup, 2 t. olive oil, ½ t. salt, ¼ t. cayenne pepper. Preheat oven to 350o. Combine all ingredients in small bowl, and toss until well coated. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 12 minutes, or until toasted and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Let cool to room temperature.
Vinaigrette: 2T. Balsamic vinegar, 2T olive oil, 1 small shallot, peeled and finely minced (1+1/2 T.) To make vinaigrette: whisk together ingredients, and season with salt and pepper, if desired.

MASSAGED KALE SALAD
2 bunches kale, 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 3 large cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1 minced anchovy fillet or 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional), 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt
Strip leaves from the stems (discard stems). Wash and dry the leaves. Tear the leaves into small pieces and place in a large bowl. Add Parmesan, oil, lemon juice, garlic, soy sauce, anchovy (if using), pepper and salt. With clean hands, firmly massage and crush the greens to work in the flavoring. Stop when the volume of greens is reduced by about half. The greens should look a little darker and somewhat shiny. Taste and adjust seasoning with more Parmesan, lemon juice, garlic, soy sauce and/or pepper, if desired.

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

“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 (CELERY ROOT) SALAD
2 medium firm celeriac; 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; 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.

CELERIAC IN CREAM SAUCE
2 celery roots; 4 tablespoons butter; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup instant-blending flour
Peel celery roots and cut into strips or wedges. Steam until just soft. Melt butter and slowly add milk. Lower
eat. Add flour 1 teaspoon at a time, stirring instantly. Cook, stirring, until sauce thickens. Drain celery root. Pour on cream sauce. Serves 2 to 4. Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.

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.

CURRIED VEGETABLE RICE SOUP
1 can vegetable broth, ¾ C rice (brown or basmati), 2t curry powder, ½ t salt, ½ t hot pepper sauce or to taste, 1 can unsweetened coconut milk, 1 T fresh lime juice, vegetables of your choice
Cook in crock pot if desired or combine all ingredients and simmer on stovetop. The consistency is your preference. Use extra vegetable broth for a soup consistency or less broth/more rice for a thickened side dish. Recipe from a member at a Promised Land CSA fall pot luck.

RAMEN NOODLE SALAD
2 bunches of Romaine, chopped or finely shredded or Napa cabbage, 1 bunch green onions, 4 T butter, ½ C. sliced almonds, 2-3 T sesame seeds
Crush noodles, brown in 4 T butter. After browned lightly add almonds and sesame seeds and continue to brown lightly for about 2 more minutes. Set aside.
Dressing: ¾ C oil, ¼ cup vinegar, ½ C sugar, 2 T soy sauce
Warm oil and sugar stirring until sugar is dissolved; add soy sauce and whisk well to combine. Toss greens with dressing and reserved noodles, nuts and seeds just before serving.

LAZY GOLUMPKI (GOŁĄBKI), STUFFED CABBAGE CASSEROLE
Medium size head of cabbage, 2 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef 90/10, 1/2 lbs. cooked bacon coarsely chopped, 1 med white onion, 1/2 cup Italian flavored bread crumbs, 1/2 -3/4 cup white rice; cooked, 1-2 eggs, 1 family sized and 1 10 oz can of tomato soup, salt and pepper to taste, Preheat oven 375 degrees. Coarsely shred the cabbage in thick long pieces and set aside. Cook bacon in the oven, allow to cool, coarsely chop and set aside. Dice onion and set aside. Cook rice and allow to cool and set aside. For convenience, I used a boil in the bag type of rice. In a large bowl, add meat, bread crumbs, onion, bacon, rice, egg and salt and pepper. Start by only using one egg. If the mixture seems too dry, then add the second egg. In a 9X9 pan, place a layer of the shredded cabbage so that the bottom of the pan is completely covered. Add the meat mixture on top of the cabbage and press into the shape of the pan. Add another layer of cabbage to cover the meat mixture. Pour the family sized can of tomato soup over the top of the cabbage to cover completely. Reserve the smaller can to add additional soup while baking in the oven. Add salt and pepper over the top. Cover with aluminum foil. Place pan on top of a cookie sheet and put in a 375 preheated oven. Cook for approximately 1 hour 45 minutes -2 hours. Recipe from plattertalk.com

PORK & NAPA CABBAGE SOUP
1 teaspoon ghee or fat of choice, 1 small onion, diced, Kosher salt, 1 pound ground pork (ground chicken thighs, beef, and turkey also work), 6 large fresh shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and thinly sliced (dried and reconstituted ’shrooms work, too), 2 garlic cloves, minced, 6 cups bone broth or stock, 1 head Napa cabbage (2 pounds), cut crosswise into 1-inch segments (bok choy or Savoy cabbage are good alternatives), 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into coins, 1 large russet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes, Freshly ground black pepper, 3 scallions, thinly sliced
Heat the ghee in a large pot over medium heat. When the fat is shimmering, toss in the diced onion with a sprinkle of salt. Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 3 minutes). Add the ground pork and break it up with a spatula. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and another sprinkle of salt. Cook the pork and mushrooms until the meat is no longer pink and the shiitakes are tender (about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the broth and crank up the heat to high. Bring everything to a boil. Then, stir in the cabbage, carrots and potato, and bring the soup back to a boil. Don’t worry about cramming too many veggies into the pot—the cabbage will cook down! Lower the heat to medium or medium low to maintain a simmer, and partially cover the soup with a lid, leaving a crack so it doesn’t boil over. Simmer the soup, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are easily pierced with a fork (about 15 minutes). Peek under the lid to make sure that the soup isn’t boiling over or barely percolating, and adjust the heat up or down as needed. If you want to make this soup in a pressure cooker, sauté the ingredients in the pressure cooker as directed above. When you’re ready to simmer the soup, close and lock the lid; then, cook it under high pressure for 3-5 minutes. Release the pressure manually when the soup is finished cooking. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh scallions. If you’ve got leftovers, you can store ’em in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for several months. Try this soup for breakfast on a chilly morning, and you’ll never crave a soggy bowl of cereal again!
Recipe form NomNomPaleo.com

NAPA CABBAGE SALAD WITH PEANUTS AND CILANTRO
The Salad: 1/2 C skinned raw peanuts; 1 tsp peanut oil; 1 large carrot; 4 cups thinly sliced Napa cabbage; 2 cups slivered lettuce leaves; 3 thin scallions, including some of the greens, finely sliced diagonally; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 2 tablespoons chopped mint leaves; 2 tablespoons torn basil leaves, preferably Thai basil

The Dressing: 1/2 jalapeno Chile, finely diced; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 cup roasted peanut oil
Heat the peanuts in the oil over medium-low heat, shaking the pan occasionally, until lightly browned after a few minutes. Blot with paper towels and set aside. Peel the carrot with a vegetable peeler and discard the skins. Then, with the vegetable peeler, continue removing long strips of the carrot until you’ve reached the core. Combine the cabbage, lettuce, and carrot with everything except the nuts. Whisk the dressing ingredients together and toss with the greens. Add the peanuts just before serving. Serves 4-6 Recipe from Local Flavors.

RUSSIAN CABBAGE BORSCHT
1+1/2 c. thinly sliced potato, 1 c. thinly sliced beets, 4 c. water, 1-2 T butter 11/2c chopped onion, 1 scant tsp. caraway seeds, 11/2 t sp. salt (or more to taste), 1 stalk celery, chopped, 1 medium-sizes carrot, sliced, 3-4 cups shredded cabbage, freshly ground pepper, 1 t. dill (plus extra for garnish), 1-2 T cider vinegar, 1-2 T brown sugar or maple syrup, 1 c tomato puree Toppings: sour cream or yogurt and extra dill
Place potatoes, beets, and water in a medium-sized saucepan. Cover and cook over medium heat until tender (20-30 minutes). Meanwhile melt the butter in a kettle or Dutch oven. Add onion, caraway seeds, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the onions are translucent. (8-10 minutes).
Add celery, carrots, and cabbage plus 2 cups of the cooking water from the potatoes and beets. Cover and cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender (another 8-10 minutes). Add the remaining ingredients (including all the potato and beet water), cover, and simmer for at least 15 more minutes. Taste to correct seasonings, and serve hot, topped with sour cream or yogurt and a light dusting of dill.
Recipe for the New Moosewood Cookbook

BEET CARPACCIO

For salad: 1 lb. beets (preferably Chioggia), trimmed and peeled, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup roasted pistachio nutmeats, 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup greens

For dressing: 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon, 1 teaspoon superfine sugar, 1/3 cup olive oil, salt and white pepper

Thinly slice the beets with a mandolined slicer.  Place the slices into a bowl and toss with 1/4 cup lemon juice.  Set aside. (The lemon juice will help preserve the color of the beets when you cook them, so let them sit at least 10 minutes while you prep everything else.) Make the dressing: Mix together vinegar, sour cream, tarragon, and sugar with a wire whisk until well-blended.  Slowly add the olive oil, while whisking constantly.  (This creates an emulsion).  Add salt and white pepper to taste.  Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Bring water to a boil in a large pot that has a steamer tray.  If you like, add salt and a splash of lemon juice to the water.  Once boiling, place beet slices on the streamer tray (it’s alright if they overlap slightly).  Cover and steam for 5-6 minutes, or until tender yet firm.  Briefly shock the beets in an ice bath, then drain.  Layer the beets and onions on four small plates.  Sprinkle with pistachios and feta cheese crumbles.  Make sure the dressing is well-stirred, then lightly drizzle over the salad. Top with microgreens. Recipe from Restaurant Widow; Serves 4

 

HOT BEET & CARROT SLAW
2 T butter, 1 large clove garlic, 2 beets; fist sized; grated, 1 medium carrot; grated, ¾ C orange juice, salt and pepper
Sauté garlic in butter for 2 minutes. Add the rest of the ingredients and cook 5-8 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

PEPPER PASTA
3 large bell peppers; 3 lbs. chicken breast cut in 2-inch pieces; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/4 c vegetable oil; 6 green onions, chopped; 4 cloves fresh garlic, pressed; 1 lb. hot, cooked fettuccine; 1/4 c bottled teriyaki sauce; 1/4 c soy sauce
Cut red, orange and yellow bell peppers into strips. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Saute green onions and garlic 1 minute to soften. Add chicken. Stir-fry 5 minutes. Add bell peppers; saute 3 minutes. Add teriyaki sauce and soy sauce; cover, reduce heat to low, and steam 2-3 minutes, until peppers are just tender. Pour mixture over pasta in serving dish. Season with black pepper. Serve hot. Makes 9 servings

ROASTED RED PEPPER SAUCE
4 sweet red peppers; 2 cloves garlic; 1-2 Tbsp olive oil
Wash and dry peppers. Grill over charcoal fire until skin blackens and blisters. Or, use tongs and hold over gas flame. Wrap in kitchen towel and allow cooling to touch, at least 10 minutes. Peel off charred skin, remove stem and seed. Put peppers in food processor or blender; add garlic and 1 Tbsp olive oil. Puree. Add more garlic or oil to taste. Good as dip or meat condiment. Makes about 3/4 cup

STEAMED NAPA CABBAGE WITH GREEN PEPPER
One 2-lb. Napa cabbage, thinly sliced; 1/20 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup cider vinegar; 1 tbsp. dark brown sugar; 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper; 1/4tsp. salt; 1 green pepper, seeded, deribbed and thinly sliced
Combine the vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, red pepper, salt and 1/4 cup of water in a small saucepan. Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat, and cook it rapidly to reduce it by half – four to five minutes. Remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside. Pour enough water into a large pot to fill it about 1 inch deep. Set a vegetable steamer in the pot and bring the water to a boil. Put the sliced cabbage and green pepper in the steamer, cover the pot tightly, and steam the vegetables until the cabbage is just barely wilted €about three minutes. Transfer the vegetables to a serving bowl and pour the sauce through a strainer onto them. Toss the vegetables well to distribute the dressing evenly, and let them stand for five minutes before serving. Serves 6

FRIED PEPPERS WITH EGGS
1 large green pepper; 1 tbsp salad oil; 1/4 tsp salt; pinch of garlic salt; pinch of pepper; 1 egg; pinch of salt; 1 tbsp water
Wash pepper, cut off stem ends and remove seeds. Cut in strips. Add peppers to heated oil in skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring with a fork, until they are heated. Do not let peppers brown. Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt, garlic salt and pepper. Lower heat; cover and cook 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Uncover, increase heat to medium and cook to desired tenderness. For best flavor, do not overcook. Beat eggs, pinch of salt and water together slightly. Pour over peppers in skillet; do not stir mixture until eggs start to set; then, with fork or spatula, move mixture to allow all liquid to set. Do not let eggs overcook. Turn onto warm platter.

SLOW-ROASTED BELL PEPPERS
5 yellow, orange, or red bell peppers, halved, seeds and ribs removed, 6 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for serving, Juice of 1 lemon, 1 Tbsp. fig jam, 1 Tbsp. white balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar, Kosher salt, 2 Tbsp. oregano leaves
Heat broiler. Toss peppers with 2 Tbsp. oil on a rimmed baking sheet to coat and arrange cut side down. Broil, rotating baking sheet halfway through, until skin is blackened, 12–14 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 200° and continue to roast peppers until very soft but not mushy, about 1 hour. Let cool slightly, then scrape off and discard skins. Cut peppers lengthwise into ½”-wide strips. Whisk lemon juice, jam, vinegar, and 4 Tbsp. oil in a medium bowl. If fig jam is very coarse, use a fork to mash into smaller pieces; season dressing with salt. Mix in peppers; taste and season well with salt. Toss to coat. Just before serving, mix in oregano and drizzle generously with more oil.
Do ahead tip: Peppers (without oregano) can be made 2 days ahead. Cover; chill. Recipe from Bon Appetit

TERIYAKI BEEF STUFFED PEPPERS
½ cup uncooked white rice, ½ cup beef, 2 large red bell peppers, ½ lb. lean (at least 80%) ground beef, 2 green onions, thinly sliced on the bias, white and green parts separated, ½ cup shredded carrots, 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar, 2 T soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Chile garlic sauce, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (2 oz)
Heat oven to 425°F. Spray 8-inch square (2-quart) baking dish with cooking spray. In medium bowl, mix rice and broth. Cut each bell pepper in half vertically. Remove seeds and membranes; place cut side up in baking dish. In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef, green onion whites and shredded carrots over medium heat 8 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is deep brown and vegetables soften. Stir in brown sugar, soy sauce, Chile garlic sauce and ginger; cook 1 to 2 minutes longer or until sauce is absorbed. Stir beef mixture into rice mixture. Stir in cheese. Divide beef mixture evenly among bell peppers in baking dish. Cover tightly with foil. Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until bell peppers and rice are tender; top with green onion greens.
Recipe from Bettycrocker.com

EASY EGGPLANT CHEESE CASSEROLE
olive oil; 2 small eggplants (about 1 pound total), sliced into 1/3-inch-thick rounds; salt and pepper; 1 onion, sliced into rounds; 1 red or green pepper, cut into strips; 2 cups tomato sauce or chopped fresh tomatoes; 3-4 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1 cup grated mozzarella and/or Parmesan
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in nonstick skillet; add eggplant and cook (in batches if necessary) on both sides until barely tender. lay eggplant in a baking dish and season well with salt and pepper. Saute onions and pepper strips until barely tender in a bit more oil. (Alternatively, you may brush vegetables with oil and grill them.) Layer onions and peppers over eggplant. Season with salt and pepper. Cover with tomato sauce (or tomatoes) and basil. Top with cheese. Bake at 375 degrees,45 minutes. This can easily be increased to feed a crowd. Summer squash can be substituted or used with eggplant. Serve with a big salad, fresh bread, and goat cheese. Makes 4 servings.

GRILLED EGGPLANT
4 eggplants (l lb. each), with peel, cut lengthwise into 1-inch-thick slices; 2 tsp kosher salt, divided; 4 Tbsp extra virgin Olive oil; 1/4-1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Layer several paper towels on baking sheet. Place half of eggplant on top in single layer. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the salt and cover with paper towels. Arrange second layer of eggplant, sprinkle with remaining salt, and cover with paper towels. Let eggplant stand 30 minutes, then rinse each piece and blot dry. (This helps extract excess water, reducing bitterness and preventing eggplant from absorbing excess oil during cooking.) Brush both sides of an eggplant slice with oil to coat and transfer to large bowl. Repeat with remaining oil and eggplant slices. Season with pepper. Heat grill to medium. Grill eggplant, with cover closed, 16 to 20 minutes, turning once, until browned and tender. Refrigerate leftovers in airtight container for a day or two.

ONE-DISH BABA GHANOUJ
2 c finely chopped Grilled Eggplant (about 4 large slices); 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro; 1 Tbsp white wine vinegar; 1 Tbsp tahini paste; 2 cloves garlic, smashed to a paste with a pinch of kosher salt; 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil; ‘/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/4 tsp red-pepper flakes; 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Mix all ingredients in medium bowl. Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes or longer to blend flavors. Serve as a dip with pita crisps and bell peppers or pair with soft goat cheese as a spread for crostini.

EGGPLANT CAPONATA
3/4 pounds eggplant, cut into 3/4-inch cubes; 1/3 cup olive oil, divided; salt and pepper; 1 1/2 cups diced red onions; 3/4 pounds tomatoes, seeded and chopped; 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and chopped; 1 1/2 tbsp capers; 1 cup thinly sliced bok choy stems; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; tsp sugar
Heat oven to 500 degrees. Toss eggplant cubes with 1/3 cup olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread in a single layer on large baking tray and roast 10 minutes. Continue roasting until eggplant browns, another 10-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Heat remaining oil in large skillet and sauté onions 10 minutes. Add tomatoes, olives, and capers. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook about 15 minutes. Add eggplant and bok choy to pan and continue cooking, covered, for about 8 minutes. Remove cover, turn heat up to high, and stir in vinegar and sugar. Cook until vinegar evaporates and all flavors meld, about 3 more minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot or cold, with bread, pasta, etc. Makes 4 servings.
Recipe from Christine Mulvey

ROASTED EGGPLANT & FETA DIP Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
½ pound eggplant; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/8 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup finely chopped leeks; ½ small bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil; 1 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Pinch of sugar (optional)
Position oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source; preheat broiler. Line a baking pan with foil. Place eggplant in the pan and poke a few holes all over it to vent steam. Broil the eggplant, turning with tongs every 5 minutes, until the skin is charred and a knife inserted into the dense flesh near the stem goes in easily, 14 to 18 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board until cool enough to handle. Put lemon juice in a medium bowl. Cut the eggplant in half lengthwise and scrape the flesh into the bowl, tossing with the lemon juice to help prevent discoloring. Add oil and stir with a fork until the oil is absorbed. (It should be little chunky.) Stir in feta, onion, bell pepper, Chile pepper (if using), basil, parsley, cayenne and salt. Taste and add sugar if needed. Makes 6 servings, about 1/4 cup each.

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

CREAMY BROCCOLI AND LEEK BISQUE
1 T. oil; 4 leeks thinly sliced; 3 garlic cloves, chopped; 4cps broth plus 2cps; 2 # potatoes; 1 lb. broccoli; l tsp sugar; 1/3 C parsley; 1/4tsp nutmeg 1 cp milk; 1 T lemon juice; 1/2tsp hot pepper sauce; salt and pepper
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.

CAULIFLOWER WITH WHITE SAUCE OR CHEESE SAUCE
For an easy cream sauce whisk one cup of milk in a 2-cup measuring cup with 2 T. flour until well blended add 1 T. butter, 1/4 tsp. salt and 1/8 tsp. of pepper.
Microwave on high for 1 min. Stir well. Wave for another minute and stir again. Continue at 30 sec. intervals stirring well after each time until thickened. If cheese sauce is desired add 1/4 cup favorite cheese and heat and stir until well blended.

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
2 large cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 large head cauliflower, separated into florets; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped Combine garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper in a casserole dish. Add cauliflower, and toss to coat well. Bake 25 minutes at 425 degrees, stirring halfway through. Sprinkle top with Parmesan and parsley, and broil 35 minutes, until golden brown. Makes 6 servings

SPICY POTATO AND CAULIFLOWER
8 ounces potatoes; 5 tablespoons peanut oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 fresh red Chile, seeded and finely chopped; 1 medium cauliflower, broken up into small florets; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 2 garlic cloves, cut into shreds; 1-2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped; salt
Cook the potatoes in their skins in boiling salted water for about 20 minutes, until just tender. Drain and let cool. When cool enough to handle, peel and cut into I-inch cubes. Heat 3 tablespoons of the oil in a frying pan or wok. When hot, add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper and Chile. Let the spices sizzle for a few seconds. Add the cauliflower and about 1/4 cup water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 6-8 minutes. Add the potatoes and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, then remove from the heat. Heat the remaining oil in a small frying pan. When hot, add the cumin seeds and garlic and cook until lightly browned. Pour the mixture over the vegetables. Sprinkle with the chopped cilantro and serve at once. Serves 2

CURRIED RICE SALAD
1 1/2 cups long-grain or basmati rice; 2 ½ tsp salt; 2 tbsp peanut oil; 1/2 small head cauliflower, cut into small florets (about 2 cups); 1 tbsp curry powder; 1/2 cup currants; 1/2 cup water; 1/2 cup raw cashews, toasted and chopped; 3 tbsp finely chopped chives or green onion tops; 1/2 tsp black pepper
In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to boil. Meanwhile, heat a medium skillet over medium heat until hot, about 3 minutes. Add the rice and toast, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes. Add 11/2 teaspoons of the salt to the boiling water and stir in the toasted rice. Return to a boil and cook, uncovered, until the rice is tender but not soft, 8 to 10 minutes for long-grain rice or about 15 minutes for basmati. Meanwhile, line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Drain the rice in a strainer, and then spread it on the prepared baking sheet. Let cool while preparing the salad ingredients. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, warm the oil. Add the cauliflower, curry powder, and 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. Add the currants and 1 cup water. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the water evaporates and the cauliflower is tender, about 3 minutes. Transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl. Add the rice, cashews, chives, pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt and toss to combine thoroughly. Let stand for 20 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve at room temperature. Serves 6 to 8

CAULIFLOWER AND CARROTS
1-2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cups small cauliflorettes; 3 medium carrots, in thin 1 ½ strips; ½ tsp salt; 2 large cloves garlic; minced; 1-3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; black pepper; basil, optional
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet. Add cauliflower, carrots and salt, and sauté over medium heat until tender 8-10 minutes. Stir in garlic during the last few minutes of cooking. Transfer to a bowl; add vinegar, pepper and basil if desired. Serve warm, cold or at room temperature. About 6 servings.
Recipe from The Moosewood Cookbook

CAULIFLOWER SALAD
3 c. shredded lettuce; 1 c. grated raw cauliflower; l/2 c. grated carrot; 3 tbsps. sweet pickle relish; 1/4 c. vinegar; 1/4 c. salad oil; 3 tbsps. Sugar; 1/2 tsp. onion salt; 1/8 tsp. pepper; 1/8 tsp. paprika
Combine lettuce, cauliflower, carrot and pickle relish in salad bowl.  Shake together the remaining ingredients. Pour over salad and toss. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from America’s Best Vegetable Recipes.

CAULIFLOWER-OLIVE SALAD
1/2 c. olive oil; 1/4 c. lemon juice or white wine vinegar; 1/2 tsp. salt; Dash freshly ground pepper; 2 Bermuda onions, thinly sliced and separated in rings; 1/2 small head cauliflower, sliced (about 3 c.); 1/2 c. sliced stuffed olives; 1/2 c. crumbled blue cheese; 1 medium head lettuce, torn in bite-size pieces
Combine oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Add onions, cauliflower and olives to mixture; marinate at least 30 minutes. Sprinkle cheese over lettuce in salad bowl. Add marinated mixture and toss gently. Makes 6 servings. Recipe from America’s Best Vegetable Recipes.

BROILED CAULIFLOWER IN GARLIC BUTTER
1 large head cauliflower; 1/4-pound butter, softened; 2-3 large cloves garlic, finely chopped; 6-8 sprigs f1at leaf parsley, finely chopped; Freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Remove all leaves from cauliflower. Break into large florets. Blanch in boiling water until slightly soft. Drain. Mix butter with garlic, parsley, and pepper. Place blanched cauliflower florets in baking dish. Spread butter mixture over florets. Sprinkle bread crumbs and cheese over entire surface. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes until top becomes crisp. Serves 4. Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.

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.

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

MOROCCAN GRATED CARROT AND BEET SALAD RECIPE

2 cups of grated carrots (from about 3 carrots), 1 cup of grated fresh beets (from about 1 medium sized peeled beet), 1/2 cup golden raisins, 1/2 teaspoon paprika (sweet, not hot), 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, small pinch of salt, small pinch of cayenne, 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 2 teaspoons honey, 2 Tbsp sliced fresh mint leaves
Place the grated carrots in a medium sized serving bowl. Place the grated beets into a sieve and briefly rinse with cold water. This will rinse away a little of the excess beet juice that may otherwise color the whole salad beet red.  Pat dry with a paper towel. Then add to the bowl with the carrots.  Add the raisins.  Stir to gently combine. In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne. Then add the lemon juice and honey and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over the carrots and beets, then gently fold until the carrots and beets are lightly coated.  Let sit for an hour before serving, either chilled or at room temperature, for the dressing to seep into the carrots and beets. Right before serving, stir in a couple tablespoons of sliced fresh mint leaves. Garnish with fresh mint. Recipe from simplyrecipes.com

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

CHUNKY SPICED APPLESAUCE
10 cups cubed, peeled apples (about 3 pounds); 1/2 lemon; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/3 cup water; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
Place apple in a large bowl; cover with cold water. Squeeze juice from lemon half into bowl; place lemon half in bowl. Set aside. Combine cranberries and remaining ingredients in a Dutch oven; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Cook 3 minutes or until cranberries pop. Drain apple; discard lemon. Add apple to pan. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes or until apple is soft Uncover, bring to a boil, and cook 15 minutes. Mash apple mixture with a potato masher. Pour into serving dish; cover and chill at least 2 hours. Yield 7 cups; serving size about 1/2 cup. Makes 12 servings

GERMAN-STYLE APPLES AND CABBAGE
4 packed cups thinly sliced red or green cabbage, (3/4-1 pound); 3 cups peeled, sliced tart apples; 1 cup sliced red onion; 1/2 cup apple cider or beer; 1/4 cup cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; coarsely ground black pepper to taste
Place cabbage, apples, red onion, and cider or beer in heavy saucepan or skillet. Cover and cook over medium heat until vegetables become slightly tender, about 8 minutes. Add remaining ingredients; cook another 7-8 minutes. Add more cider if necessary to keep vegetables from sticking. Serve with ring bologna, bratwurst, kielbasa, or sauteed mushrooms. Makes 6 servings Recipe from MACSAC

APPLE COBBLER
1 c sugar; 2 Tbsp flour; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 6 c peeled, sliced apples
For topping: 1 c flour; 1 c sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 egg; 4 Tbsp butter, softened
In large saucepan, combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg and apples. Stir gently to coat with sugar mixture. Cook over medium heat 7 minutes, or until just slightly softened. Spoon into buttered 7 I 1/2- by 11 3/4-inch baking dish. Prepare topping: Stir together flour, sugar, salt, egg and butter until crumbly. Distribute over fruit. Bake at 350 degrees 45 minutes, or until fruit is tender and topping is lightly browned. Makes 8-10 servings Recipe from Farm-Fresh Recipes.

GERMAN APPLE CAKE
3 eggs; 1 c vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla; 2 c sugar; 2 c flour; 2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 4 c thinly sliced, peeled apples (about 4 large); 1 c walnuts, chopped
Grease and flour a 9- by 13-inch baking pan. Beat eggs, oil and vanilla until foamy. Add sugar, flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt; blend well. Stir in apples and nuts. Pour batter into pan. Bake at 300 degrees 1 hour, or until crusty on top. Toothpick inserted in center should come out clean. Note: Excellent with cream cheese frosting. Freezes well. Makes 12 servings Recipe from Farm-Fresh Recipes