And just like that, it feels like fall around here! We were blessed with some good rain last night, a thunderstorm with NO HAIL (thank god!) and some of the most epic sunsets of the year over the past week. This week’s csa haul reflects the changing of the season with the first of the fall broccoli and cabbage with an overlap of summer tomatoes, zucchini and cucumbers. It’s a great variety right now and I love this time of the year. I hope you all enjoy this week’s harvest.
Your farmers,
Andrea, Taylor, Pepper, Maize and our amazing crew
Harvest 17
Head Lettuce—Anti-infamatory and a rich source of vitamins A, K and folate.
Carrots—Rich in beta-carotene which your body converts into Vitamin A. This vitamin is important for vision, bone and immune function. Carrots are also high in antioxidants and important minerals for overall body health. Remove the greens on the carrots before storing them so they don’t go soft.
Broccoli—Broccoli contains many vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Research suggests that some of broccoli’s plant compounds are thought to help prevent cancer when eaten often. Broccoli’s benefits include helping reduce inflammation, keeping blood sugar stable, and strengthening the immune system.
Cabbage—this tasty brassica helps reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is the leading cause of disease and incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods is very beneficial.
Rainbow Chard—this dark leafy green is high in antioxidants and important vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, K and A and a healthy dose of magnesium (which many people are deficient in).
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.
Full Size 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.
Cherry Tomatoes— See above—
Cucumber— If you are feeling dehydrated eat a cucumber! Cucumbers are hydrating and contain more than 50 trace minerals. They contain chlorophyll in their skins that’s bonded to B vitamins and vitamins A and C. And cucumbers support digestion and hydration.
Zucchini/Summer Squash—Zucchini and summer squash are a highly alkaline food that is one of the mildest and easiest vegetables to digest. Zucchini is a great source of vitamin A, C, & B-complex as well as minerals such as iron, zinc, potassium, and manganese.
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
Detox Rainbow Chard, Cabbage & Carrot Slaw (this is SO good and perfect for leftovers!)
Broccoli Parmesan Pasta (easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love!)
Simple Beef & Broccoli Skillet (this is great!)
Cabbage Salad with Buttermilk Dressing(fabulous!)
Summer Tomato & Swiss Chard Pasta (easy and delicious)
Mild White Chicken & Zucchini Chili (our favorite family soup of the summer!)