July 7th Newsletter

Dear CSA Crew,


We have officially begun cherry harvest 2013! Now the chaos really begins. . . The crop looks pretty good, the equipment is (almost!) put together and tuned up, the customers are calling and we are excited . We are lucky to have a fabulous crew and are looking forward to a safe and successful harvest. As a season kick-off, expect to taste your first Michigan dark sweet cherry of the year this week! Here is the full line-up:

Our friend, Stephanie, picking cherries!

• Cherries
• Strawberries
• Garlic Scape
• Radishes
• Broccoli
• White Turnip
• Lettuce/Mixed Greens
• Sugar Snap Peas

Not sure what to do with that funky looking garlic scape? Try baking it with olive oil and salt for a unique appetizer or side. Here is another simple recipe using broccoli:

Broccoli Italiano 

1 pound cauliflower or broccoli florets, cur into marble size pieces

1 Tbsp olive oil

2 tsp red wine vinegar

Pinch of salt

1 oz aged Provolone, thinly shaved

Red pepper flakes

Fill a skillet with ½ “ water.  Cover and set over high heat.  Bring to a boil.  Add the cauliflower or broccoli.  Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes, or until

crisp tender.  Drain.

Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the oil, vinegar and salt.  Add the drained vegetables.  Toss to combine.  Serve on appetizer plates topped with cheese and red pepper flakes to taste.

Makes 8 servings

We want to give you the opportunity to not only buy a quart or two of extra fruit, but buy fruit in bulk at lower prices. Company coming to town? You know they can make a bin of cherries disappear. . .

Beyond the Bin:

• Strawberry Flat (8 quarts)  24.00
• Strawberries (single quart)  3.50
• Cherry bin (20 lbs) 35.00
• Cherries (single quart)  5.00
• Snow Peas  2.00
• Rhubarb  2.00

Yes, we are pushing the strawberries right now. Our newest planting, rows so long that they have been nicknamed "strawberry fields forever" have been producing an extra sweet variety. We finally have a bit of rain in the forecast, something our cherry trees really need right now. While farmers may be elated with the wet weather, we know that your ruined beach plans may bring about some disapointment. Do not get too down, rainy days are perfect for staying in and cooking up some strawberry jam!