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August Update: Back to School, Soccer Season, and Delicious Apples & Tomatoes!

Posted on August 2nd, 2023 by Lynne Schultz

Dear friends and farm community,

August has arrived, and with it comes the excitement of the upcoming school year. Balancing the farm's busy days and getting the kids back on a school schedule can be quite a juggling act, especially when it comes to bedtime hours! But we're ready for the adventure that awaits us this month.

Soccer season is now in full swing, and both Josh and I are thrilled to be coaching our young athletes. It's a joy to see them grow and develop their skills on the field.

As we bid farewell to summer, we welcome the first signs of autumn with the arrival of crisp and delicious Ginger Gold apples. These golden beauties are a true delight and perfect for snacking, baking, and making applesauce. They're known for their sweet and slightly tangy flavor, making them a versatile addition to your culinary creations. Whether you enjoy them fresh, bake them into pies, or slice them onto your morning oatmeal, Ginger Gold apples are sure to impress.

Speaking of abundance, our tomato and pepper harvest is in full swing this August. There's nothing quite like the juicy sweetness of vine-ripened tomatoes and the vibrant colors of bell peppers. This week, we want to highlight the wonderful world of cherry tomatoes. These little bursts of flavor pack a big punch and can be used in various ways to enhance your meals.

To make the most of your cherry tomatoes, store them at room temperature for optimal taste and texture. Avoid refrigeration as it can affect their flavor and cause them to become mealy.

Now, let's get creative with some delicious cherry tomato recipes:

  1. Cherry Tomato Bruschetta: Toast slices of baguette, and top them with a mixture of halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
  2. Caprese Salad Skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a delightful appetizer or snack.
  3. Cherry Tomato Pasta: Sauté cherry tomatoes with garlic and olive oil, then toss them with your favorite pasta and finish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
  4. Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes: Hollow out cherry tomatoes and fill them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and chopped vegetables for an elegant appetizer.
  5. Roasted Cherry Tomato Salsa: Roast cherry tomatoes with onions, garlic, and jalapeños until caramelized, then blend them into a smoky and flavorful salsa.

We hope these ideas inspire you to explore the wonderful world of cherry tomatoes and make the most of this bountiful season.

Wishing you a smooth transition back to school, a fun-filled soccer season, and delightful meals with our farm-fresh produce.

Best regards,

The Schultz Family