Westfield Area CSA Blog

Circle Brook Farm

Farm News – June 26, 2023

Hi Folks! So, now after a dry spring, it’s looking like it’s going to rain every day for the rest of the summer! Don’t get me wrong – we still need some precipitation to replenish the soil moisture and the first few storm brought us only about an inch and a quarter, which only wet the top 4 inches of the soil. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing though, and these types of storms often come with damaging winds and hail (a four-letter word here on the farm). The rain gauge is marking 2” currently – today’s total thus far, from a storm that began 3 hours ago and is predicted to continue for three more. It’s going to be a muddy mess out in the fields as we try to harvest this week! (more…)

Lettuce

Lettuce

It is true, eating all that salad is good for you!  While the nutritional value of lettuce varies with the variety, the following excerpt from the University of Illinois website sets the record straight:  Lettuce in general provides small amounts of dietary fiber, some carbohydrates, a little protein and a trace of fat. Its most important nutrients are vitamin A and potassium.   (more…)

Spring Garden Soup

Spring Garden Soup

Another great soup recipe from The Victory Garden Cookbook by Marian Morash.  It serves 4-6.  Use 2 leeks (white and light green parts only) in lieu of scallions.  For herbs, parsley, thyme, or tarragon is recommended. (more…)

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled Veggies

In this sweltering heat, if the thought of standing over your stove sautéing, steaming or baking any of your veggies makes you want to head to the nearest fast food or take-out counter, consider grilling at least some of your vegetables.  In the time it takes to grill some hot dogs or a steak, you can have wonderful, tasty treats. (more…)

Circle Brook Farm

Farm News – June 19, 2023

Hello Folks!  So, we received about 1.2 inches of rain from three separate storms over the past week. Not as much as we would have liked, but enough that we could take a break from moving the sprinklers around constantly and prepare some more ground for planting. We are heading into scattered thunderstorm territory, hopefully some of these will scatter some precipitation on us. (more…)

Spring Garlic

“Spring” Garlic and Onions

You probably already know that the best way to store onions and garlic is in a cool, dark place that’s dry and has good air flow. But did you know that rule actually only applies to cured onions and garlic – the kind generally found at the supermarket? “Spring” or “fresh” onions and garlic, however, are an exception to that rule. This article on thekitchn.com has all the details! (more…)