[CSA Update] Welcome to week 9

This basket marks the halfway point through our 2023 CSA! Thank you for eating locally grown and for preparing your own meals from scratch! Grab your favorite snack from your last basket, and let's dive into what is coming your way.

The weather has taken us on a rollercoaster ride, and the fields are fighting through the cold, drought, heat, and rain to bring us their fruits (and vegetables). We are not done yet!

Being a small farm in Connecticut, one field isn't used for one crop per year. I plant multiple varieties and types of crops in the field that harvest at different times that don't compete with each other. I also rotate crops that are harvested early and as long as there is time to seed in another crop in time for the farm share harvest that field will get another chance to harvest.

When it comes to meal planning, having a diverse selection of crops can really make a difference. For example, potatoes are a versatile and filling option that can be mashed, roasted, or fried. Fennel adds a unique anise-like flavor to dishes and can be roasted, grilled, or used raw in salads. Swiss chard is a nutrient-rich leafy green that can be sautéed, roasted, or used raw in smoothies.

Tomatoes are a staple in many dishes and offer a sweet and acidic flavor that can be used in sauces, salads, and sandwiches. Lastly, peaches offer a sweet and juicy addition to desserts, salads, and even savory dishes like peach salsa. Because I plant a wide variety of crops to enable you to build great meals for your table, meal planning becomes not only easier but also more exciting and delicious.

I can grow all of these different crops, and I don't want it to go to waste. That's where the share sizes and your creativity kick in. I can make a pile of green beans look appetizing, but do you need a bushel of green beans?

By customizing your share you give me the feedback to only pick so much from each field and that increases our sustainability. Your fridge is more efficient because every time you open it up for inspiration you see items that you are excited to chop, slice, and tear, and present on your table. I'd love to hear your tips on maintaining a sustainable and enjoyable routine of using all of your basket, while we all have half the summer to look forward to.

Thank you for letting me grow food for you and being part of our farm-share community. I invite you to reach out with questions, suggestions, and feedback on how 2023 is going.