Winter Share Twelve May 2nd 2024

Important information:

• This is the final winter share. Still room for a few more summer shares!
• Please take a few minutes to look around for any stray boxes that might have collected in the garage, porch, car trunk or patio; thank -you!
• We’ll be sending out summer share information with start dates in a few weeks.

Farm News from Jane
Springtime planting has officially begun in the well-prepared fields last Friday. Although it was the first time out in the field getting everything working in harmony, including the farmers usually takes some time, with just a few quick minor adjustments it went really well. Farmer Ben had done a lot of preparation ahead. The bunching onions seedling (scallions), red beets, fennel, bok choy and Napa cabbage and Swiss chard were easily pulled from their cozy cells and the ground was soft with just the right amount of moisture. We needed a few extra layers for warmth because it was a cool morning. But the sun came out and the breeze stayed gentle. But back in the high tunnel; where has all the spinach gone? There is just one small bed of spinach remaining. In its place are now tomatoes along with all the lettuces, fennel, kale, Napa cabbage in the high tunnel. The rest of the other winter crops of Swiss chard celery will also soon be gone. The swift transition always astounds me. It seemed like just a short time ago we were shoveling snow! The garlic is growing nicely and has been cultivated twice. Cover crops that overwintered were the beds prepared for spring plantings and the late beds that were not sown are now tilled and are in the process of being sown. Those are the beds that will be for the late summer Brassica family vegetables; all the cabbages, broccoli, cauliflowers, Brussel sprouts, kales and collards. So much is pre-determined by rotation, always hoping that the weather will be in agreement. Some years if the fields are too wet the rotation has to change. And did you know because our farm is framed by woods on three sides that part of the determination where seedlings are planted is of the angle of the sun? Early crops need more northern exposure and later crops need more southern exposure. The trees cast long shadows on the edges of the field so plants don’t receive the necessary amount of full sun to mature properly. It really makes a difference! We did have some early spears of asparagus pushing through but of course those twenty-degree mornings froze them. They were mown off for new growth. Asparagus; I always look forward to it but this year I feel like it will be ready before I am! Time stops for no man, or woman. Lots to look forward to; lots of delicious and nutritious colorful, crunchy and sweet vegetables in the weeks and months to come! The circle of life brings new colors and flavors unique to our terroir. Terroir is the combination of factors in a natural environment in which a crop is produced; soil, climate, and sunlight. Every environment will produce different flavors and qualities; France, Italy or even her in Alden/Darien. Our farm terroir is special and unique. And the produce we grow is just as nutritious and delicious! Thanks to all for joining us for a winter share. We hoped you enjoyed all the winter weeks of cooking and eating healthy! Many blessings, Jane

Produce:   Colorful carrots   red Potatoes   Chioggia beets
Daikon radishes   Celery   Swiss chard   Spinach   Leeks

Produce tips:
– The spinach that we picked is sized from small last shoots to large leaves. We picked as much of the plant as possible, not wanting to waste any of it before we removed the plants from the beds. Enjoy!
– The leeks that wintered over from autumn are a bit softer than in the fall. They have begun growing again and will produce a seed stalk before long. We’ve harvested all the ones of quality. You will also find them to be a bit sweeter. Try them in eggs or quiche to really enjoy their bright spring flavor.
I baked red potatoes for supper last evening; they were so creamy and sweet. It’s so nice to have those root and biennial crops that as they are preparing to grow again produce more sugars and flavor!
– Swiss chard; although this was the last harvest from the high tunnel, the first spring planting on Friday will be ready in another six weeks or so.
– Celery Did you know that researchers have linked intake of lutein, a carotenoid abundant in celery to reduced risk of many types of cancer.

Recipes
LEEKS AU GRATIN

1 lb. leeks; 2-1/2 T butter; 1 T flour; 6 T milk, 1/2 T white wine; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
Cut white and tender portion of green leek leaves lengthwise and then into 1- inch pieces. Boil until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain; place in a buttered casserole. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 T butter; stir in flour. Whisk in milk and wine. Stir and cook until thickened, 3-5 minutes. Add nutmeg, salt and pepper; pour over leeks. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 400 degrees 15-20 minutes or until bubbly. Dot with remaining butter and brown under broiler, 3-5 minutes. 8 servings.

BRAISED SWISS CHARD WITH LEEKS
3 T olive oil; 2 lbs. leeks, sliced; salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lb. Swiss chard, chopped
Heat oil in large pan over medium heat, add leeks. If using chard stalks, add them, too. Season with salt and pepper. Cover, reduce heat and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Add chard leaves; cover. Simmer until wilted, about 5 minutes. Serve at once. 4 servings.

LEEK AND POTATO SOUP
3 c sliced leeks; 3 c diced peeled potatoes; 2 qts water; 1 Tbsp salt; 1/4 c heavy cream or 3 Tbsp butter, softened; 2 Tbsp fresh minced chives or parsley
Simmer leeks and potatoes in water with salt, partially covered 40-50 minutes, or until tender. Mash vegetables with fork or put through food mill. Set pot off heat and stir in cream or butter. Serve in bowls and sprinkle with herbs. Makes 8 servings

COCK-A-LEEKIE SOUP
1 1/2-pound whole chicken, rinsed and quartered; 1 quart chicken stock; 1 bay leaf; 5 peppercorns; 2 whole cloves; 2 1/2 cups chopped leeks; 1/2 cup chopped carrots; 1/4 cup pearl barley; 2 tbsp chopped parsley; 1/4 cup chopped prunes (optional); salt and pepper
Place chicken in large pot with 1 quart water; add stock, bay leaf, peppercorns, and cloves. Bring to low boil, skimming as needed. Reduce to low simmer and cook about 1 1/2 hours, skimming as needed. Remove chicken; let cool. Remove any fat floating on stock, then strain through a very fine mesh colander lined with cheesecloth. Clean out soup pot and return stock to it. Add leeks and carrots, bring to boil, and add barley. Simmer until barley is cooked, about 35 minutes. Meanwhile, remove skin and bones from chicken; shred the meat. When barley is cooked, stir in chicken, parsley, and prunes, if using. Heat through. Season to taste. Makes 3-4 servings. Recipe from MACSAC

LEEK, MUSHROOM AND LEMON RISOTTO
8 ounces trimmed leeks; 8 ounces mushrooms; 2 tbsp olive oil 3 garlic cloves, crushed; 6 tbsp butter; 1 large onion, roughly chopped scant 1 3/4 cups rice; 5 cups hot vegetable stock; grated zest and juice of l lemon; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup mixed chopped fresh chives and flat-leaf parsley; salt and freshly ground black pepper; lemon wedges and sprigs of flat-leaf parsley, to serve
Wash the leeks well. Slice in half lengthwise and roughly chop. Wipe the mushrooms with paper towels and roughly chop. Heat the oil in a large saucepan and cook the garlic for 1 minute. Add the leeks, mushrooms and plenty of seasoning and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until softened and browned. Remove from the pan and set aside. Add 2 tablespoons of the butter to the pan and cook the onion over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute. Add a ladleful of stock to the pan and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid is absorbed. Stir in more liquid as each ladleful is absorbed; this should take 20-25 minutes. The risotto will turn thick and creamy, and the rice should be tender but not sticky. Just before serving, stir in the leeks, mushrooms, remaining butter, grated lemon zest and 3 tablespoons of the juice, half the Parmesan and the herbs. Adjust the seasoning and serve, sprinkled with the remaining Parmesan and herbs. Serve with lemon wedges and sprigs of flat -leaf parsley. Serves 4

BAKED EGGS WITH CREAMY LEEKS
1 tablespoon butter, plus extra for greasing; 8 ounces leeks, thinly sliced; 5-6 tablespoons whipping cream; freshly grated nutmeg; 4 eggs; salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Generously butter the bottoms and sides of four ramekins or individual soufflé dishes. Melt the butter in a small frying pan and cook the leeks over medium heat, stirring frequently, until softened but not browned. Add 3 tablespoons of the cream and cook gently for about 5 minutes, until the leeks are very soft and the cream has thickened a little. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Arrange the ramekins in a small roasting pan and divide the leeks among them. Break an egg into each, spoon 1-2 teaspoons of the remaining cream over each egg and season lightly. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the side of the ramekins or soufflé dishes. Bake for about 10 minutes, until the whites are set and the yolks are still soft, or a little longer if you prefer them more well done. Serves 4

EASY VICHYSSOISE
3 medium white potatoes. peeled and sliced; 4 medium leeks, sliced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup light cream or half-and-half; 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Combine potatoes, leeks, and chicken broth in large saucepan. Cover. Simmer until tender. Process in blender until smooth. Cool. Add ‘salt and cream. Stir and serve, sprinkled with chopped chives. Serves 4. Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.

POACHED SEAFOOD WITH LEEKS
2 medium fish fillets or 2 small whole fish; Juice and grated peel of 1 lemon; 4-6 sprigs parsley, chopped; 6 tablespoons butter or margarine; 2 leeks, leaves separated Place fish in shallow buttered pan. Sprinkle with lemon peel and parsley. Add lemon juice and dot with butter. Cover all with separated leek leaves. Seal pan with aluminum foil. Bake in preheated 3250 F. oven for 25 to 35 minutes.
Serves 2. Recipe from The Fruit and Vegetable Stand.

BRAISED SWISS CHARD WITH LEEKS
3 T olive oil; 2 lbs. leeks, sliced; salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lb. Swiss chard, chopped
Heat oil in large pan over medium heat, add leeks. If using chard stalks, add them, too. Season with salt and pepper. Cover, reduce heat and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Add chard leaves; cover. Simmer until wilted, about 5 minutes. Serve at once. 4 servings.

SWISS CHARD QUICHE
1 lb. Swiss chard or spinach, cook and drain thoroughly; 4 eggs, beaten; 1 cup milk; 1 cup Swiss cheese shredded; 1 cup bread cubed; 1/2 cup sliced green onions; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated. Combine all ingredients with cooked greens. Pour into 2-qt. baking dish. Cover and bake in 375⁰ oven until set, 25-30 min.

SWISS CHARD BREAKFAST BURRITOS
Approximately 3 C cooked and seasoned Swiss chard*; 2 C milk; 1T flour; 6-8 flour tortillas; 1 tsp mustard powder; 2-3 cups shredded cheese (like cheddar or Swiss), divided; salsa; sour cream; 4 eggs, beaten
Oil a 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Divide cooked chard down center of tortillas. Sprinkle each pile of chard with 3 tablespoons cheese. Roll up tortillas and place seam side down in prepared pan. Mix eggs, milk, flour, and mustard powder. Pour over tortillas. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let burritos come to room temperature. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bake until eggs are set, about 45 minutes. Sprinkle remaining cheese of). Top and cover for last 5 minutes of baking. Serve with salsa and sour cream. This recipe can be adapted to use a variety of seasonal vegetables. Makes 4-6 servings.
*It’s best to start by sautéing some onions and garlic; then add Swiss chard, cook it, and season it with salt, peppers, and fresh herbs (dill is delicious).

ASIAN-STYLE CHARD
1 bunch Swiss chard, cleaned; 1 tablespoon peanut oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic scapes; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; freshly ground black pepper
Cut off and discard thick stem ends of chard. Cut out ribs; chop ribs into 2-inch pieces; set aside in a pile. Stack the leaves in small piles; coarsely chop them. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high flame. Add ribs; toss and cook 1 1/2 minutes. Add leaves and garlic; continue to cook, tossing often, until chard begins to wilt, 2-3 minutes. Stir in soy sauce; cook until chard is tender, 1-3 minutes longer. Add pepper to taste. Serve immediately. Makes 2-4 servings. Recipe from MACSAC

TANGERINE & ROASTED BEET SALAD WITH FETA AND PISTACHIOS
2 medium beets, trimmed, 4 C chopped beet greens or Swiss chard, 8 Pixie tangerines or Clementines, 1 T sherry vinegar, ¼ t kosher salt, divided, ground pepper to taste, 6 t extra virgin olive oil divided, ¼ C crumbled feta cheese, ¼ C coarsely chopped toasted unsalted pistachios
Preheat oven to 375^0. Scrub beets well, wrap in foil while still wet and place in a small baking pan. Bake until the tip of a knife slips into a beet easily, 1 to 1+1/4 hours. Let cool, still wrapped, for 15 minutes. Unwrap and let cool for 10 minutes more. Use a paper towel to rub the skins off. Trim off the ends. Slice the beets into wedges or slices. Rinse and drain the beet greens (or chard), leaving a little water still clinging to them; set aside. Grate ½ t zest from 1 tangerine (or clementine), Slice the ends off all the fruit, then slice off the peel and white pith, following the curve of the fruit. Cut the fruit into segments or slices and set aside. Combine the zest with vinegar, mustard, ¼ t salt and a generous grind of pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk in 4 t oil. Add the sliced beets and toss to coat; let stand for 15 minutes. Heat the remaining 2 t oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the greens and remaining ¼ t salt; cook, gently stirring, until just wilted, 2-3 minutes. Divide the greens among 4 salad plates. Top with the beets, fruit, feta and pistachios. Drizzle with any remaining dressing. Serves 4; Recipe from Eating Well magazine

HEIRLOOM CARROT SALAD WITH SWEET ORANGE AND THYME VINAIGRETTE
6 Tbs. olive oil, ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar, ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 2 Tbs. fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish, 1 Tbs. finely chopped shallot, 1 tsp. honey, 1 ½ lbs. heirloom carrots, 1/3 cup pine nuts, 1/3 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
Whisk together oil, vinegar, orange juice, thyme, shallot, and honey in large bowl. Hold each carrot over bowl containing vinaigrette and, using a vegetable peeler or spiral slicer, peel long, thin strips into bowl. Toss to mix.
Toast pine nuts in skillet over low heat 2 to 3 minutes, stirring and tossing frequently to prevent burning. Add pine nuts to carrots, and toss to mix. Sprinkle with parsley, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Recipe from Vegatariantimes.com

HERB-ROASTED TRI-COLORED CARROTS
2 lbs. carrots, trimmed, peeled, and cut on the diagonal into 1/2-inch pieces (I used tri-colored carrots but you can use all orange), 2 T olive oil, 2 to 3 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped, 1 tsp fresh thyme, 1 tsp salt, or to taste, 1 tsp pepper, or to taste, 2 to 3 tsp fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped, 2 tsp lemon juice, optional
Preheat oven to 450F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Add the carrots to the baking sheet, evenly drizzle with olive oil, and evenly sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and toss with your hands to evenly coat. Arrange the carrots in a flat layer with space between the pieces if possible and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes or until carrots are lightly caramelized around the edges and fork-tender. Baking times will vary based on the size of carrots and personal preference for doneness.
Stir and flip halfway through baking to ensure all sides cook evenly. Evenly sprinkle with parsley, evenly drizzle with optional lemon juice (brightens up the dish), and serve immediately.

BALSAMIC HONEY GLAZED RAINBOW CARROTS
1 lb. rainbow carrots, cut in half and sliced, 3 T extra virgin olive oil, 2 T balsamic vinegar
1 T honey, ⅛ tsp sea salt, ⅛ tsp. black pepper, Coarse salt for sprinkling, Parsley, diced, for garnish
Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a baking dish and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl until fully combined. Toss the carrots and the honey mixture together in a large bowl until evenly coated. Place coated carrots in to the prepared baking dish. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until carrots are tender (but not mushy!) Cool for 5 minutes. Top with a sprinkling of coarse salt and parsley to serve. Recipe from https://www.aberdeenskitchen.com/

ROASTED RAINBOW CARROTS WITH MAPLE GLAZE
2 lbs. whole rainbow carrots, 2 T olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste, 2 T unsalted butter, melted, 4 T good maple syrup – plus more for drizzling at the end
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Wash carrots thoroughly, especially between around the stem. Peel carrots, leaving part of the tops (the green part) on, if desired. Note: I like to roast them whole, so they get a slight crunch in the center. But if your carrots are too thick, split them in half lengthwise.

Arrange carrots on a large sheet pan, without overcrowding, about 1 to 2 inches apart. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper evenly. Roast for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through, until almost fork tender. Remove from the oven. Toss carrots with maple syrup and melted butter. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 8-10 minutes until caramelized, watching it so that the maple glaze doesn’t burn.
Recipe from https://cookingformysoul.com/

FRIED BEETS AND CARROTS
2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons cumin seeds; 2 medium beets, quartered, sliced 1/4-inch thick; 2 medium carrots, sliced 1/4-inch thick; tamari sauce; greens
Heat olive oil in skillet. Add cumin; cook about 1 minute. Add beets and carrots; fry until tender. Remove from heat, sprinkle on a little tamari, and serve. Variation: If using young beets save the tops. When the beets and carrots are tender, add chopped greens, cover, and cook until soft. Toss mixture, sprinkle with tamari, and serve. Makes 2-4 servings. Recipe from Linda Derrickson, Sunporch Cafe

RADISH, CARROT AND APRICOT RELISH
1/4 cup vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1/8 tsp salt; 2/3 cup shredded radishes; 1/4 cup shredded carrot; 3 dried apricots, cut in strips
Combine vinegar, honey and salt, bring to boil and pour over remaining ingredients. Cover and let marinate in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

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.

BEET AND DAIKON SLAW
2 beets, peeled and cut into l/8-inch julienne (matchsticks); 1 6-inch daikon radish, peeled and cut into l/8-inch julienne; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; 2 tsp canola oil; 1 tsp unsalted rice vinegar; 1 tsp sea salt
Combine all ingredients in a non-reactive bowl, cover, and let stand at least 1/2 hour. Season to taste and serve. Recipe from Bill Maddex, member of Drumlin Community Farm

BEET, MUSHROOM AND POTATO CASSEROLE
2 tbsp oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 tbsp flour; 1 1/4 cups vegetable stock; 1 1/2 pounds cooked beets, peeled and chopped; 5 tbsp light cream; 2 tbsp creamed horseradish; 1 tsp hot mustard; 1 tbsp wine vinegar; 1 tsp caraway seeds; 2 tbsp butter; 1 shallot, chopped; 8 ounces mushrooms, trimmed and sliced; 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the potato border: 2 pounds potatoes, peeled; 2/3 cup milk; 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill; salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a 9-inch round baking dish. Heat the oil in a large saucepan, add the onion and cook until soft, without coloring. Stir in the flour, remove from the heat and gradually add the stock, stirring until well blended.  Return to the heat, stir and simmer to thicken, and then add the beets, cream, creamed horseradish, mustard, vinegar and caraway seeds. To make the potato border, bring the potatoes to a boil in salted water and cook for 20 minutes. Drain well and mash with the milk. Add the dill, if using, and season with salt and pepper. Spoon the potatoes into the prepared dish and make a well in the center. Spoon the beet mixture into the well and set aside. Melt the butter in a large nonstick frying pan and cook the shallot until soft, without browning. Add the mushrooms and cook over moderate heat until their juices begin to run. Increase the heat and boil off the moisture. When quite dry, season with salt and pepper and stir in most of the chopped parsley. Spread the mushrooms over the beet mixture, cover and bake for about 30 minutes. Serve at once, garnished with the reserved parsley. If you are planning ahead, this entire dish can be made in advance and heated when needed. Allow 50 minutes baking time from room temperature. Serves 4-6

THE ULTIMATE ROOT SOUP, BORSCHT
1/3 cup (1 ounce) dried porcini; 2 large leeks; 3 or 4 small russet potatoes, peeled; 1+1/4 pounds beets, peeled; 3 celery ribs; 1 carrot; finely chopped parsley or dill; 3 bay leaves; 7 garlic cloves, chopped; sea salt and freshly ground pepper; 1 large onion; 1 rutabaga, about 1/2 pound; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup fresh or canned diced tomatoes (in puree or water); 1 tbsp sugar; 3 tbsp white or red wine vinegar; 1/2 cup sour cream mixed with 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
Cover the mushrooms with 2 cups warm water and set them aside while you make a vegetable stock. Wash all the soup vegetables thoroughly since you’ll be using the trimmings. These include 4 inches of leeks past the white part of their roots, if available; potato peels; beet stems and peels; celery tips; carrot ends; and parsley stems. Put the trimmings in a pot with 2 bay leaves, 4 garlic cloves, and 2 teaspoons salt. Cover with 10 cups water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer while you chop the vegetables for the soup. Finely chop the white parts of the leeks. Finely dice the onion. Chop the celery into 1/2-inch pieces. Dice the carrot into 1/4-inch piece. Peel the rutabaga and dice into 1/2-inch pieces. Dice the peeled potatoes. Cut the peeled beets into julienne strips. Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven. Add the leeks, onion, celery, carrot, rutabaga, potatoes, cabbage and remaining garlic. Toss with 1 tablespoon salt, cover, and cook over medium heat until the vegetables have wilted, about 20 minutes. Add the beets, tomatoes, remaining bay leaf, and sugar. Chop the soaked mushrooms and add them, along with their soaking liquid, to the pot. Strain the stock, then add it (or 2 quarts water) and simmer until the beets are tender, about 25 minutes. Taste for salt and season with pepper. Stir in the vinegar. Serve hot or cold, with a spoonful of sour cream and horseradish in each bowl and a scattering of fresh green parsley or dill. Server 8-10.

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

PARSLEY POTATO CARROT HASH
2 tablespoons olive oil; 1-2 tablespoons butter; 11/2 pounds potatoes, scrubbed and cut into small cubes; 1 large carrot (about ½#), scrubbed and cut into small cubes; salt and pepper; 1/4-1/3 cup finely chopped leeks or onion; 1/3-1/2 cup coarsely chopped parsley
Heat olive oil and butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium flame. Add potatoes and carrots, season generously with salt and pepper, and toss well. Cook undisturbed 4-5 minutes to brown on one side, then toss and brown again for 4-5 minutes. Lower heat, stir in leeks or onions, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until tender. Stir in parsley. Note: You could add chopped ham, chicken, or hard-cooked eggs to the mixture along with the parsley. Makes 4-6 servings. Recipe from MACSAC

CABOT CHEDDAR MASHED POTATOES
2 pounds potatoes; 1/2 cup butter, plus more as needed; 3/4 cup whole milk, heated; 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated; Nutmeg; Salt and freshly ground white pepper
Peel and dice the potatoes. Cover with cold, salted water in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until potatoes are just fork tender. Drain thoroughly, and place in a large bowl with the butter, milk, and cheese, and add nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash with an old-fashioned masher or handheld mixer, mixing thoroughly until desired consistency is reached. Additional butter and milk may be added to taste. Makes 4 servings

IRISH POTATO PUFF
2 tbsps. yellow corn meal; 4 c. diced peeled potatoes; 6 eggs, separated; 1 c. butter (2 sticks); 1 tsp. salt; 1/4 tsp. white pepper; 2 c. cooked buttered carrot sticks
Coat an 8-cup ring mold well with 2 tbsps. butter; sprinkle with corn meal, then tap out excess. Cook potatoes in lightly salted boiling water 10 minutes, or until tender. Drain well, then shake pan over low heat to dry; mash (you should have about 3 c.). Beat egg whites until firm. In another smaller bowl beat egg yolks until thick. Cream 1 c. butter in large bowl and beat in egg yolks, then potatoes, salt and pepper. Fold in egg whites. Spoon into mold; cover tightly with foil. Set mold on rack or trivet in kettle or steamer; pour in boiling water to half the depth of mold; cover tightly. Steam 45 minutes. Cool puff in mold 5 minutes. Remove foil. Loosen around edge of tube with a knife; turn out onto serving plate. Fill center with hot buttered carrot sticks. Makes 8 servings. Recipe from America’s Best Vegetable Recipes.

SPICY POTATO WEDGES WITH CHILI DIP

2 baking potatoes, about 8 ounces each; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 teaspoon ground allspice; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon paprika; salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the dip: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, crushed; 7-ounce can chopped tomatoes; 1 fresh red Chile, seeded and finely chopped; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, plus extra to garnish
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wash the potatoes. Cut them in half and then into 8 wedges. Place the potato wedges in a saucepan of cold water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes have softened slightly. Drain well and pat dry on paper towels. Mix the oil, garlic, allspice, coriander and paprika in a roasting pan. Season with salt and pepper. Add the potatoes and shake to coat thoroughly. Roast for 20 minutes, turning occasionally. Meanwhile, make the Chile dip. Heat the oil in a saucepan, add the onion and garlic and cook for 5-10 minutes, until soft and golden. Add the tomatoes with their juice and stir in the Chile and vinegar.  Cook gently for 10 minutes, until the mixture has reduced and thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the cilantro and serve hot, with the potato wedges. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and garnish with cilantro. Serves 2
Recipe from Vegetarian the best ever recipe collection.

HOT GERMAN POTATO SALAD

1 ½ lb. of potatoes, (about 4 medium), cut into halves, 3 slices of bacon, 1 medium onion, 1T. flour, 1T. sugar, 1 t. salt, ¼ t. celery seed, dash of pepper, ½ c. water, ¼ c. vinegar

Heat one-inch salted water (1/2 t. salt to 1 cup water) to boiling. Add potatoes. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and cook until tender, 20-25, minutes, drain and cool. Fry bacon in 8-inch skillet until crisp; drain on paper towels. Cook and stir onion in bacon fat until tender. Stir in flour, sugar, salt, celery seed and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is bubbly; remove from heat. Stir in water and vinegar. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute; remove from heat. Crumble bacon into hot mixture, then slice in warm potatoes. Cook, stirring gently to coat potato slices, until hot and bubbly. Serves 5-6; recipe from the Betty Crocker Cookbook. A family favorite of ours!

 

HARVEST POTATO SOUP
1/2C chopped onion, 1T butter, 4C chicken stock (or substitute bouillon), 3 C diced potatoes, 2 medium carrots; sliced, 1C celeriac, rutabaga or kohlrabi; cubed, 3 C shredded spinach, salt and pepper to taste
Saute onion in butter. Add remaining ingredients except spinach and cook over low heat 20 min or until vegetables are tender. Add spinach and heat thoroughly. *May substitute peas or green beans for spinach.

GRILLED CHIVE POTATOES

6 red-skinned potatoes, scrubbed; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 tablespoons chopped fresh chives; 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel; nonstick vegetable oil spray

Cook potatoes in large pot of boiling salted water until tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Drain. Cut potatoes in half; place cut side up on rimmed baking sheet. Press each gently with fork to flatten slightly. Stir butter, chives, and lemon peel in medium saucepan over medium heat until butter melts. Season with salt and pepper. Brush some chive butter over potatoes. Coat grill rack with nonstick spray. Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Grill potatoes, cut side down, until cut side is crisp and brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Rewarm remaining chive butter. Transfer potatoes, cut side up, to platter. Drizzle with warm chive butter. 4 Servings

POTATO CHOWDER SOUP
2 cups peeled and diced potatoes, 1/2 cup diced carrots, 1/2 cup diced celery, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup butter, 2 cups milk, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 (15 ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained, 2 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Place potatoes, carrots, celery, onion and salt in a large pot with water to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes. Meanwhile, combine butter, milk and flour in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until smooth and thick. Pour milk mixture into cooked vegetables. Stir in corn and cheese until cheese is melted. Serve. Recipe from allrecipes.com

CHEESY SPINACH
Mix: 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/3 cup brown rice, cooked; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley; 2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional); salt and pepper to taste
Mix separately: 1/2 large bunch of spinach, chopped and steamed; 1/3 cup cottage cheese; 1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1egg, plus 1 egg white; salt and pepper to taste; a pinch of cayenne pepper
Spread the ingredients from the first mixture in the bottom of a greased casserole. Spread the spinach mixture over them. Bake at 350 degrees until firm, 45-60 minutes. Makes 3-4 servings.
Recipe from Max, the cook at Red Caboose Day Care Center

SPINACH STRAWBERRY SALAD
1/2 c sugar; 1 T poppy seeds; 2 Tbsp sesame seeds; 1 1/2 tsp minced onions; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1/4 c cider vinegar; 1/4 c wine vinegar; 1/2 c canola oil; 2 Tbsp butter; 3/4 c slivered almonds; 1 lb. spinach, washed, dried and torn into bite-size pieces; 1-pint strawberries, sliced
Put sugar, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, onions, paprika, vinegars and oil in shaker jar. Shake to emulsify. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Add almonds; cook and stir until lightly toasted, 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Combine spinach, strawberries and almonds in serving bowl. Pour half of dressing over and toss. Add more dressing as desired. Serve at once. Makes 8 servings

FRESH GREENS PASTA PIE
3 ounces vermicelli; 1 tablespoon butter or margarine, softened; 1/6 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 1/2 eggs; 1 teaspoon cooking oil; 1/2 small onion, chopped; 1 cup chopped fresh spinach or other greens; 1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/6 cup milk; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; pinch ground nutmeg
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a large pie plate. Cook vermicelli according to package directions; drain. Stir butter and Parmesan cheese into hot vermicelli. Beat 2 of the eggs and stir well into pasta. Spoon mixture into pie plate, and use a spoon to shape vermicelli into a pie shell. Cover with aluminum foil and bake 10 minutes. Set aside. Heat oil in small skillet, add onion and sauté until tender. Beat the remaining 3 eggs and combine with spinach, mozzarella, milk, seasonings, and sautéed onions. Spoon spinach mixture into pasta shell. Cover pie with aluminum foil. Bake 35 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Makes 3 servings. Recipe from Crystal Lake Gardens

GREEN RICE
3 c. cooked rice (l c. uncooked); 1 c. chopped spinach; 2 eggs, well beaten; 1 c. milk; 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce; 1 1/4 tsp. salt; 2 tsp. grated onion; 1/4 c. butter or margarine 1/2 c. grated sharp cheese
Toss rice and spinach together with fork. Add eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt and onion. Toss gently to mix, using care not to mash rice. Pour into greased 2-qt. baking dish; dot with butter and sprinkle cheese on top.  Bake in slow oven (325°) 30 to 40 minutes. Makes 8 servings. Note: Add a few chopped blanched almonds, if you like. You can substitute 1/2 c. chopped parsley for half of the spinach.

SAUSAGE SOUP WITH SPINACH AND RICE
1 lb. hot Italian sausage; 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1 tbs. olive oil; 1 tsp. dried basil; 1 cup chopped onion; 3 cups fresh baby spinach, torn; 3 cloves garlic, crushed into 2-3 in. pieces; 9 cups chicken broth; 2 C cooked long-grain rice; 1/2 C diced tomatoes, with juice; salt and pepper to taste; 3 tbs. tomato paste; 1/4 C grated Parmesan cheese
Sauté sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until cooked, about 10 minutes. Remove from pot and discard drippings. Add olive oil to pot and heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Return sausage to pot. Add broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano and basil. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add spinach and rice and simmer until spinach is just wilted. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese. Servings: 6 Recipe from The Best 50 Garlic Recipes.

SPINACH PESTO DIP
10 ounces frozen spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup walnuts; 1 teaspoon basil; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; Dash of salt; 1 clove garlic, crushed; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup mayonnaise
Thaw spinach and drain. Blend all ingredients in blender. Cover; chill. Yields 2 cups.
Recipe from Especially Herbs.

SAVORY WALNUT CHICKEN SALAD
2 C shredded or chopped chicken; 1/4 cup finely diced celery; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 2 Tablespoons minced savory; 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
Combine all ingredients and serve with fruit on a lettuce-lined plate. Serves 2.

CELERY-FETA SALAD
6 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced; 1 small jar pimiento strips; 2 Tbsp fresh chopped thyme or oregano; 2 Tbsp vinaigrette-style salad dressing; Leaves of 1 small head leaf lettuce
Mix the feta with the celery, pimiento and chopped herbs. Sprinkle with the vinaigrette. Place lettuce leaves on four plates; top with feta and celery mixture. Recipe from Farm-Fresh Recipes. Makes 4 servings

BRILLIANT GREEN AND RED SOUP
1 large onion, chopped; 1 clove garlic, crushed; 4 stalks celery, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 6 c packed spinach leaves (about 2 bunches), stems removed; 4 c chicken broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; 4 tomatoes, diced; divided; Salt and pepper, to taste
Place onion, garlic, celery, and cumin in pot with olive oil over medium heat. Cook 5 minutes. Add spinach; stir well. Reduce heat to low; cover. Simmer until spinach is wilted, about 4 minutes. Add broth and oregano; simmer, covered, 20-25 minutes. Working in batches, puree mixture. Place mixture and 2 cups diced tomatoes in pot and heat through. Season with salt and pepper. Serve garnished with reserved diced tomatoes. Makes 6 servings Recipe from Farm-Fresh Recipes.

CELERY LEAF SALSA VERDE
1½ cups finely chopped parsley, ½ cup finely chopped celery leaves, 1 garlic clove, finely grated, ½ lemon, mild red pepper flakes, freshly ground black pepper
Combine parsley, celery leaves, and garlic in a medium bowl. Finely zest lemon into bowl, then squeeze in juice. Add red pepper flakes and mix in remaining ¾ cup oil; season with salt and black pepper. Let Salsa Verde sit 10 minutes for flavors to come together. Serve over fish or chicken.
Recipe from https://www.bonappetit.com