I wish I could say “fall is in the air” but with temperatures nearing the triple digits, we are definitely still in the summer mode. Garden produce this year has had its ups and downs; first a late spring and dry conditions kept gardens from growing and producing. The late July rains gave gardens the boost they needed. I’m pulling together resources for an educational program titled, “Seasonal and Simple” and I hope you will mark the date on your calendar and plan to join me.
Each fruit or vegetable grown in the home garden peaks at a certain time and the benefits of harvesting and eating that produce when at its peak are many. The color, flavor, texture and nutritional value increase as produce reaches its peak. By choosing fruits and vegetables in season you get all the benefits – food that tastes good, is good for you and is reasonably priced.
The past couple of months I have enjoyed setting up a booth at the Summer Street Stroll and providing some samples of seasonal recipes. In July, visitors to my booth sampled “Simple grated beets,” and “Squash Medley” was well liked at my last demonstration. I based my recipe selection on what was available on a given day at the farmer’s market.
I will be presenting “Seasonal and Simple” two times; first on Tuesday, September 10th at noon at the Great Bend Activity Center. The same information will be presented Thursday, September 12th, at 1 p.m. at the Great Bend Senior Center. My goal is to have a sample menu for each of the four seasons that can provide the framework that helps put delicious food on the table any time of year. I will be paying a visit to farmer’s market and plan the dishes we sample accordingly.
Whether you get your produce at the farmer’s market, your own garden or the local grocery store, enjoy the goodness of fruits and vegetables. Both “Seasonal and Simple” programs are free and open to everyone. I hope you can join me.
Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science agent with K-State Research and Extension – Barton County. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu