Sweet Summer Harvest
Cabbage, Cucumbers, Tomatoes… Oh My!
In July, the farm is brimming with an array of summertime favorites. From crunchy cabbage to vibrant tomatoes, our fields (and farmstand) are bursting with fresh produce. Whether you’re a seasoned veggie lover or new to the farm, we’re here to share some fascinating insights, handy tips, and mouthwatering recipes to help you make the most of this season’s harvest!
Cabbage
Cabbage isn’t just for slaw—it’s a star in kraut, salads, and more, thanks to its amazing potential in lacto-fermentation! Lacto-What?! This natural preservation method not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutritional benefits like improved digestion and nutrient absorption. Curious? Learn more about Why We Love Lacto Fermentation!
Recipes: Discover our popular post on Using & Storing Cabbage for expert advice, and try our Simple Summer Coleslaw at your next BBQ for a refreshing twist on this classic side dish.
Preserving Tips:
Cucumbers
Cool and crisp, cucumbers are perfect for refreshing summer salads, soups, snacks, and quick pickles. Their versatility makes them a favorite for hot days and preserving summer flavors.
Recipes: Indulge in our Chilled Cucumber Soup or Tomato Gazpacho for a cooling treat.
Preserving Tips:
- Dill Pickles (Love and Lemons)
Summer Squash & Zucchini
These summer staples are not only delicious in savory dishes but also surprisingly tasty in sweets like Zucchini Cake. Get creative with these abundant veggies, whether you’re baking, grilling, or preserving!
Got some extras that were left on the vine too long or aren’t primed for serving? No problem! Take a page from our summer campers and make your own pint-sized canoe out of zucchinis (zu-canoes!) and try sailing them down the river!
Recipes: Try our crowd-pleasing Zucchini and Summer Squash with Crispy Cornmeal Coating.
Preserving Tips:
- Freeze for baking use: Wash, grate in a food processor, squeeze out some of the excess moisture, then freeze.
- Freeze for cooking: Wash, slice, season with herbs and salt, then grill or broil for 5 minutes on each side. Remove from heat and let cool. Pack into a zip top freezer bag, squeeze out the excess moisture, then seal the bag, label and date it, and freeze.
- Elise’s Zesty Zuke Relish
Tomatoes
Slicer tomatoes are now at the farmstand, with heirlooms coming later in the season. From sauces to soups, their juicy goodness is perfect for preserving summer flavors well into the cooler months.
Recipes: Roasted Tomato Sauce and Alison’s Tomato Coconut Soup are just a taste of what you can create with our tomatoes.
Preserving Tips: Explore freezing techniques and learn how to remove tomato skins for perfect preservation.
At Cedar Circle Farm, we’re committed to bringing you the freshest, most flavorful organic produce of the season. Visit our farmstand and greenhouses to savor the essence of summer, and explore the possibilities of farm-fresh goodness in every bite!
