Greetings from the farm!
I hope everyone is having a fantastic week. We're hard at work here, ticking off items from our to-do list. The recent focus has been on baling hay, which has kept the tractors and Josh busy throughout the week. Hopefully, Josh will wrap up the first cutting of hay this weekend. We still have a lot of planting to do, and we're eager to get everything in the ground before the anticipated rainfall. It's been three weeks without rain, so we're crossing our fingers for some much-needed precipitation. Currently, we're running our irrigation for at least 12 hours daily. Interestingly, due to our ability to irrigate, we've ended up moving many of our planned veggies from the hilltop to the bottom. The irrigation success has even sparked Josh's interest in renovating our pond for summer irrigation purposes. However, for now, we're hoping for rain this week and avoiding any need to panic.
Strawberry U-Pick: We're thrilled to announce that our Strawberry U-Pick event will take place again this Saturday evening from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. To make it even more enjoyable, feel free to bring a friend along this time. Please note that due to uncertainties regarding strawberry availability in the fields, we won't be including strawberries in this week's CSA shares. For your comfort and safety, remember to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Additionally, we kindly request that you leave your pets at home to ensure food safety.
We're excited to introduce some fresh additions to our vegetable lineup this week, featuring early summer delights. Zucchini, summer squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, and garlic scapes are making their debut. Speaking of garlic scapes, they are the flavorful blossoms of garlic and can be used in salad dressings, stir-fries, and marinades, offering a delightful culinary experience. Feel free to unleash your creativity and explore the endless possibilities!
This week marks the end of the asparagus season, making it the perfect time to celebrate this delectable vegetable. Asparagus, a spring gem belonging to the lily family, has long, slender stalks and a unique flavor that has won the hearts of many. Moreover, asparagus is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
To fully savor asparagus, we recommend trying out these cooking methods and recipes:
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus spears with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast in the oven until tender and slightly crispy.
- Grilled Asparagus: Brush asparagus with olive oil and seasonings, then grill over medium heat until charred and tender, adding a delightful smoky flavor.
- Steamed Asparagus: Steam asparagus spears until bright green and tender, preserving their nutrients and natural freshness.
- Asparagus Salad: Blanch asparagus briefly, then toss with your favorite salad greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing salad.
- Asparagus Stir-Fry: Cut asparagus into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with bell peppers, mushrooms, and carrots. Add your choice of protein and seasonings for a quick and nutritious meal.
- Asparagus Soup: Simmer asparagus with onions, garlic, vegetable broth, and herbs until tender. Blend until smooth for a creamy and flavorful soup.
- Asparagus Pasta: Cook your preferred pasta and toss it with blanched asparagus spears, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple yet satisfying dish.
- Asparagus Omelette: Enhance your omelette with cooked asparagus spears, along with cheese, mushrooms, and herbs. It adds a delicious and nutritious touch to your breakfast or brunch.
Before cooking, remember to trim off the tough ends of the asparagus. Snap them off or use a knife to remove the woody portion.
Asparagus is at its best when it's fresh and in season, typically during springtime. When purchasing, look for bright green spears with closed and firm tips. Store asparagus in the refrigerator and use it within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.
Embrace the versatility of asparagus and let your taste buds explore its delightful flavors and health benefits.
We appreciate your understanding and support. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
The Schultz Family
