Week 15 of the CSA: A Perfect Blend of Summer and Fall Crops
As we transition from the hot days of summer into the crispness of fall, this week's CSA box is filled with a delightful variety of produce. From the last of the summer favorites to the first of the winter storage crops, you’re in for a treat. Here’s an in-depth look at the amazing items you'll be enjoying this week.
Acorn Squash: Sweet and Ready to Enjoy
A newcomer to this week's box is acorn squash. Known for its natural sweetness, this squash doesn’t need to be cured and is ready to eat right away. Whether you roast it, mash it, or bake it, the acorn squash will not disappoint. And if you're not ready to dive into it just yet, don't worry—it will store well on your kitchen counter for at least a month.
The Final Week of Sweet Corn
Sadly, this will likely be the last batch of sweet corn for the season. This is the last picking, and as Jack mentioned last week, late-season corn can sometimes be wormy. Although we could have left the corn in the field, we didn’t want you to miss out on one final, delicious serving. If you spot any worms, simply cut off the affected tips, and you’ll still have some of the sweetest corn of the year to enjoy.
Storage Winter Carrots: A Seasonal Favorite
We're thrilled to bring you the first storage winter carrots of the season! These carrots are highly anticipated, and they’re here to stay for the rest of the CSA season. They’re perfect for snacking, salads, or even breakfast. In fact, Karen has shared a special recipe for a carrot cake baked oatmeal, giving you another reason to love carrots!
Potatoes: A Late But Successful Harvest
This week’s yellow potatoes are a standout. Despite a tough growing season due to heavy rains that delayed planting, they’ve turned out beautifully. You’ll find them perfect for roasting, mashing, or adding to your favorite dishes.
Red Beets: Fresh and Versatile
Freshly harvested red beets from our fall planting are also included in your box. Beets are incredibly versatile—you can roast them, add them to salads, smoothies, or even combine them with other roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal. Prep a large batch, and they’ll keep well in your fridge, making them easy to add to meals throughout the week.
Zucchini: Almost the End of the Season
Although zucchini season is winding down, we’ve managed to include a few more in this week's box. You’re probably already familiar with its many uses—whether grilled, sautéed, or baked into bread, zucchini is always a versatile option.
Cherry Tomatoes: Holding on Through the Season
The cherry tomatoes are still thriving, and we’ll have plenty of these sweet gems until we experience the first hard frost. Add them to salads, pasta, or just snack on them—they're the perfect burst of late-summer flavor.
Tomato Variety: Paste, Heirlooms, and Red Slicers
Your box is also packed with all three types of tomatoes—paste, heirlooms, and red slicers. The paste tomatoes are perfect for sauces, as they cook down quickly and easily. Heirloom tomatoes continue to arrive slightly underripe to avoid bruising in your box. Leave them on your counter, preferably in a paper bag, and they’ll ripen perfectly. The red slicers from the hoop houses are also looking pristine. Whether you use them in sandwiches, eggs, or salads, they're sure to impress.
Bunching Greens: Bok Choy, Kale, and Chard
Cooler weather means it’s time for heartier greens, and this week we have an amazing selection for you:
Baby Bok Choy: Perfect for stir-frying or simply sautéing, these tender greens cook quickly and add a delicious crunch to any meal.
Lacinato Kale: This year’s crop has been especially bountiful, making it one of the best kale seasons we’ve had. Kale salads, pasta dishes, and smoothies are just a few ways to enjoy it.
Swiss Chard: The chard bunches this week are beautiful and full. Try sautéing it with a poached egg for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Herbs and Arugula: A Fresh Fall Flavor
For herbs, we’re offering cilantro from our fall planting. To keep it fresh for longer, place it in a glass of water with a plastic bag over the top and store it in the fridge.
Finally, we have arugula—big, beautiful bunches that are perfect for adding a peppery bite to salads, pizzas, and more. This is the prime season for fresh arugula, so make sure to savor it.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Best of Both Seasons
This week's CSA box offers a diverse selection of both summer and fall crops. From sweet corn and cherry tomatoes to hearty beets and kale, there’s something for everyone. We hope you enjoy these fresh, local ingredients and find creative ways to incorporate them into your meals. Have a great week, and as always, enjoy your CSA box!