CSA member feature: Meghan

Why did join the Owl's Nest Farm CSA?

Although I had considered purchasing a share on my own, about 10 friends pooled their resources and gave my a share for my birthday. It was definitely the gift that kept on giving.

What was your favorite fruit, veggie, and/or herb from CSA this year? Anything that could be pickled and the tomatoes of every color.

Tell us about any new veggies you tried in 2016. I had only had garlic scapes raw before and they are a bit in-your-face pungent, but I added them to homemade pizza last year and they were awesome that way.

What tips do you have for folks who might be trying a CSA for the first time?

Reading the weekly emails from Owl's Nest are helpful for planning as they usually included a preview as to the what was in the share each week. Also - pickling is easier than you think! I started out following these instructions from The Kitchn on How to Quick Pickle Any Vegetable and its super-easy once you've done it a few times. Although quick pickles are better 24 hours after you've made them, pickled red onions can come together in under 20 minutes and are an amazing addition to any tacos, burritos, or nachos you might be making.

Please share your favorite recipe(s).

Mom's Green Beans and Potatoes (slightly modified) These are tangy and savory and delicious! I have fond memories of snapping the ends off of pounds and pounds of green beans and then consuming huge bowls of this as a kid. My mom still starts off the dish by cooking a few slices of chopped bacon, but I think its just as good without.

  • 3 tablespoons of butter or olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds fresh green beans, ends snapped off
  • 8-10 small red potatoes, sliced in half
  • 2 cups water or broth, adding more if needed
  • 1/4-1/2 cup white or apple cider vinegar
  • 1-2 tablespoons of sugar
  • salt and pepper to taste, but the potatoes really soak up the salt, so be generous

  • Note: you may need to add more water when you add the potatoes so that they are covered in the pot. I add more sugar and vinegar if it needs it.

  • Sauté the butter and onions over medium heat for approximately 5 minutes in a large pot; add the garlic and sauté for another minute

  • Add in the green beans, water, and half the vinegar; simmer over low heat for 30 minutes
  • Add in the potatoes, sugar, and remaining vinegar; simmer for another 30-45 minutes or until the potatoes are done.
  • Enjoy!