What’s In the Box 8/16/16

We have another super hot, dry week on tap.  Farmer Matt and the crew are spending a considerable amount of time irrigating the fields to keep our crops alive. We’re also in a push to get all of the fall crops seeded and transplanted.  It’s a busy time, as always!  We hope you’re all enjoying the shares…this week’s bounty includes a sweet treat!
Watermelon – We’re so excited that these are ready for this week’s share!
Storage: In the refrigerator. Uses: Raw  When to use: Within the week. 

Fresh, “New” Red Potatoes – These are freshly dug, beautiful new potatoes. You’ll notice that they cook much more quickly than potatoes you find in the store because they have a higher water content.  If you boil them, check their tenderness with a knife every few minutes to avoid over-cooking.  We noticed that some parts of the field had potatoes with some cosmetic skin blemishes (rough scab spots).  These can be removed by peeling in those spots.  But most of them look gorgeous, so no need to peel!
Storage: In a cool, DARK place.  Do not store in plastic bags.  Store in paper bags or loose. Uses: Cooked  When to use: Within 5 days.  These won’t store well – use them right away!

Tomatoes – Tomatoes galore!  We’re hitting the peak of the crop this week!
Storage: On the counter until they are a deep red.  At that point, eat them right away or if you must, put them in the refrigerator. Uses:Raw/Cooked  When to use: Right away when deep red.

Cabbage – Wonderful for coleslaws to beat the heat this week…
Storage: In an airtight (plastic) bag in the refrigerator. Uses: Raw or Cooked When to use: Within 5 days. 

Sweet Bell Peppers – The first of the pepper harvest!  I love these in a stir-fry.  Or you can just slice them up on a veggie platter!  Juicy and refreshing on a hot day.
Storage: In an airtight (plastic) bag in the refrigerator. Uses: Raw or Cooked When to use: Within 5 days. 

Zucchini – The new planting is in!  I’ve been throwing these in everything…including chicken soup.  Delish!
Storage: In an airtight (plastic) bag in the refrigerator. Uses: Raw or Cooked, Baked When to use: Within 5 days. 

FRUIT SHARE – 1 mixed bag of Apples & Peaches