Well, almost. About a week ago I got the email I've been waiting for
since November - the one announcing that the new share season at The
Garden of Ideas will start in another month or so. Not only have I
missed eating all that fresh and tasty bounty, but the visits to the
farm as well. Ilsa and Joe are so welcoming, always there with a smile
or tidbit of information on how to best prepare whatever is on the board
for the week. Whenever I have the time, I will take a stroll through
the gardens to see what is growing, read some poetry and check out what
new sculptures have been installed. The place is a feast not just for
the taste buds, but for all of my senses.
I came to look forward to the challenge of my Thursday pick up. What would be in the fridge at the farm stand? Will I know what to do with it? Will my family eat it? When the season was over, I didn't quite know what to do with myself. I had to actually go to the store and buy stuff. I did still experiment a little over the winter, making one night a week "vegetarian night".
But I missed the adventure of trying garlic scapes, cucuzza, all types of microgreens and ground cherries - just to name a few of the types of produce that were new to me last year and favorites now. I've been collecting recipes in anticipation and have learned a few things about participating in a garden share:
1) Keep an open mind - the garden offers the opportunity to switch out what you don't want. Had I done that every time I was presented with something new, I never would have tried a bunch of things that are now staples.
2) Be realistic - Cauliflower, it just ain't gonna happen. Much as I tried last season, with soup and grilled and covered in cheese, my family was having none of it.
3) Have a steady supply of olive oil and garlic on hand. Most veggies can be prepared with these two ingredients and taste just wonderful - the beauty of fresh picked is that you really don't have to do much.
4) When available, buy the best quality you can. The taste really is better!!!
