Though it may not officially start until Memorial Day, we're getting in the mood for summer. This certainly shows in boxes this week, which include seasonal treasures from local spinach to cantaloupe to nectarines. Get a fresh start to the season and the holiday with delicious produce and flavorful recipes.
A special May flower will be included in some of this week’s boxes, but not one you might expect: baby artichokes. That’s right, artichokes are flower buds that develop into purple-blue blossoms when allowed to mature (for more fun artichoke facts, check out this post).
They may seem a little spiny and tough, but like a New England summer, artichokes just need a little patience to be fully enjoyed. Cut off the stem and spiny outer leaves to enjoy the flavorful heart. We recommend this recipe for Roasted Baby Artichokes with Lemon Aioli to highlight their unique, delicious qualities.
Mint is a perfect herb for warmer weather, with its cooling properties and refreshing kick. All plants in the mint family have a characteristic square stem, and tend to be perennial plants. Mint in this week’s boxes will be fresh from Happy Valley Organics in Hadley, MA.
To keep your mint full of fresh flavor, trim the stems and place them in a tall jar with about an inch of water in the bottom. For a tangy, gently spicy and sweet way to enjoy the flavors of the season, try a Cantaloupe Salad with Lime, Mint and Ginger.
If you’re hosting a Memorial Day party next weekend, get in the summertime spirit with some unique recipes. Combine green bell peppers, cucumbers, tomato, and bread to make a summery Panzanella salad. It makes a great complement to whatever is hot off the grill. Top off your cook-out meal with a warm Nectarine Cobbler (don't forget a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream!).
See below for a complete list of this week's local produce.
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Dwight Miller and Son Orchards Deep Root Organic Coop Nature's Circle |
Red Fire Farm Long Wind Farm |
All of the fruits and vegetables we deliver are grown without synthetic pesticides and are USDA certified organic. Interested in receiving produce that's both organic and locally sourced all year round? Check out our Local Dogma Box.
Similar to a CSA or farm share, our Local Dogma Box is filled with the best organic produce from local and regional farms and brought right to your door each week. It's the easiest way to eat like a locavore!