Are you concerned about climate change but feel like there is nothing you can do about it? Think again….if everyone just ate local seasonal foods it would make a significant positive impact. Food transport, packaging and processing make up a whopping 6% of CO2e emissions from rich countries. Never eat air freighted goods, for the climate it is a disaster. The CO2e emissions of transporting one ton of food for one mile is roughly 25g by train, 48g by boat and 1527g by plane. Think about that the next time you pick up your CSA basket or shop at a local farmers market.
What is seasonal food? Its produce that is purchased and consumed around the time that it is harvested. Seasonal food is fresher, tastier and more nutritious than food consumed out of season. When produce is allowed to ripen naturally on their parent plant, studies have shown it contain more nutrients.
Need more reasons to buy local food? It helps support local farms and maintains farmland and open space in your community. It supports the local economy because money you spend on products from local farmers and growers stays in the community and is reinvested with other local businesses. You also know where your food is coming from and who grew it.
Here is what you can expect this week:
Garden Peas Also called sweet peas or English peas. The pod is not edible so you will need to shell them first. They don’t have to be a side dish, you can add them to everything you are cooking this spring. Fresh pasta with peas, pea chowder, green pea dip, stir fry on rice, salad with peas……you get the picture.
Garlic Scapes – Because there are so many ways to enjoy garlic scapes, we added them in your basket again this week. One of our past members shared her pickling recipe. We have done a few batches in the past and really love having them on our epic charcuterie board during the winter holiday season. If you are feeling ambitious and want to order extra, visit our online store. We will add them to your CSA basket.
Head Lettuce Lettuce is so much more than salad. Here are a few other ways to eat it: Juice, throw it into your next juice blend or smoothie. Large leaves can be used for lettuce wraps. Topped like a cracker by spreading your favourite dip or protein like chicken or tuna (makes a healthy snack) Layered into spring rolls. Chopped as part of a tasty rice or noodle bowl.
Wild Mulberries Can be eaten fresh, used for sauces, jams, desserts or dried. They are foraged wild berries and very sweet. Considered a “super food” that provides protein and antioxidants. Its the inspiration for the famous mulberry pie. They must be used right away as they don’t keep very long.
Summer Squash – Tender, glossy, editable skins and so many ways to prepare! Try a summer squash casserole perfect for a BBQ or potluck. Layer sautéed squash with peppers and onions. Pour a mixture of sour cream, beaten eggs, salt and pepper with grated old cheddar, chives and thyme over the squash. Bake and serve.
Beet with Fresh Greens – Best way to prepare is roasting them, it brings out their sweetness. Don’t forget to cut off the greens right away and use them in your salads, sauté with chopped onions and bacon as a side dish or throw them in your smoothies.
Winter Savoury A strong herb that combines well with vegetables and rich meats. It has a sharp peppery flavour with a pine undertone. It dries well by hanging up side down and storing in jars for winter cooking. Savoury can stimulate appetite and aid in digestion.
Enjoy
