Howdy folks and welcome to harvest week 16. For those of you with kiddos we hope the start of a new school year is off to a good start. September, how the heck are we already here?!
We’ve got another toasty week out on the farm and we’re hoping that after this next wave of hot weather that we’ll officially be in the clear and trending cooler. Fingers crossed. With the heat means more summer veggies so this week’s haul is pretty spot on for peak summer harvest. We hope you enjoy the bounty and another week of farm fresh eating.
Your farmers,
Andrea, Taylor, Pepper, Maize and our awesome crew
Harvest 16
Arugula— one of the healthiest leafy greens containing a ton of antioxidants, minerals and anti-inflammatory properties.
Salad Mix—These leafy greens are a rich source of vitamins A, K and folate. Also a good anti- inflammatory leafy green.
Cilantro—Cilantro is one of the most potent and detoxifying herbs for our bodies. It helps remove heavy metals from our bodies and has antibacterial properties along with being one of the most adrenal supporting herbs out there.
Scallions—Great for overall immune health. Scallions are a good source of vitamin C and a flavonoid called quercetin. Both can strengthen your immune system and help it fight illnesses.
Potatoes—Fun fact—potato plants draw some of the highest concentration of macro and trace minerals from the earth. They are high in potassium and rich in vitamin B6, as well as a fantastic source of amino acids, especially lysine in its bioactive form. Potatoes also contain tyrosine, a chemical needed to produce thyroid hormones. So cool! Eat more potatoes folks!
Bell Peppers—Bell peppers are very high in vitamin C, with a single one providing up to 169% of the recommended daily value. Other vitamins and minerals in bell peppers include vitamin K1, vitamin E, vitamin A, folate, and potassium.
Eggplant—Contains moderate levels of vitamins A and C, which help protect your cells against damage. It's also high in natural plant chemicals called polyphenols, which may help cells do a better job of processing sugar and keeping your blood sugar in balance.
Shisito Peppers— (these are mild not hot) Besides Vitamin C, shishito peppers have a high amount of Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E. These contribute to improving the immune system as well as the body's nervous system. Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E also prevent the cells and tissues from getting damaged. This keeps immunity levels up at all times.
Cherry Tomatoes—Tomatoes are the major dietary source of the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
Jalapeño Peppers—jalapeños are rich in vitamins A and C and potassium. They also have carotene -- an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from disease– as well as folate, vitamin K, and B vitamins.
Cantaloupe—Cantaloupe is an amazing fruit that has over 19 vitamins and minerals that help to boost the immune system, detoxify the organs, and deeply hydrate and alkalinize the body.
Recipe Suggestions
Lamb Eggplant & Tomato Stew (this is fabulous!)
Blistered Shishito Peppers With Roasted Garlic Aioli (simple and delicious!)
Chili Lime Melon Salad (fantastic!)
Lamb, Chickpea & Eggplant Casserole (this is fantastic and very easy despite a longer ingredient list. Try it!!)
Spicy Eggplant Pickle (this is like CANDY!! Seriously the best appetizer. We even make enough to can or freeze for the winter holidays. try this!!)
Ratatouille Summer Quiche (fabulous!)
Pasta with Roasted Eggplant & Tomato Sauce (this sauce would be great as a pizza base too!)
Sheet Pan Blackened Salmon with Potatoes, Broccoli & Creamy Cilantro Sauce (my kids love this!)
Hazelnut Crusted Eggplant Parmesan (fabulous and easy!)