Although the calendar indicates it is the end of summer, Mother Nature in South Carolina is not paying attention. Yesterday it was 92º and today it will be the same, nevertheless, most farmers’ markets are closing down or will be in the next two weeks. This end of summer celebration, because I hate the hot weather, was perfect for dinner, after finishing up a hot summer day. Light, refreshing and colorful, if you are a vegetable fan, you will love this easy to prepare salad. Because the vinaigrette is so prominent in this recipe, using good, fresh ingredients is important and will make a difference. Keep in mind, the vinaigrette…
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EASY Freezing For My Summer Garden
As of today, my garden has rendered a great harvest, more than enough for my husband and I. I have been doing research and I am trying several methods to “preserve” my summer harvest. All fruits and vegetables have enzymes and bacteria that can destroy the nutrients, change the color and texture of the food. Blanching is a heat treatment that will destroy these enzymes. My first harvest I tried the blanch then freeze method. Although not difficult, it did take most of an evening to complete the process for all my squash and peppers. Do not allow the vegetables to sit on the counter more than 24 hours before…
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My Garden First Crop
My garden first crop was 2 yellow crooked neck squash and 1 zephyr squash. Both are delicious! Both varieties have the same texture and flavor. The Zephyr is the one with the green tip. According to “SpecialityProduce.com” Zephyr squash is a relatively new type of summer squash and botanically a part of Cucurbita pepo. A highly productive hybrid variety the Zephyr is a constricted neck type of squash, similar to that of yellow crook neck squash. It was bred specifically to have superior taste, quality and adaptability. Its fruit can be harvested at varying stages of maturity, with the medium size of five to seven inches being the most recommended…
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Garden Planted
It is after April 15 and the danger of frost has passed so I FINALLY PLANTED MY GARDEN. Crook neck yellow squash & goldy zucchini Of course, there is always a chance of a freak frost, but doubtful. As noted in a previous blog post http://joannsfoodbites.com/foodie-bites/top-5-prepping-for-your-herb-garden/ I have already prepped my planters. I had to change my game plan so, I have tried something new. I planted my two squash plants and one zucchini in an old wheelbarrow. The wheelbarrow has a huge gash in the bottom, to provide adequate drainage for my plants. I used a high quality potting soil and will watch them closely. I am also trying…