Farm Happenings at Schultz Valley Farms
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Transitioning to Fall and Delicious Delicata Squash

Posted on November 4th, 2023 by Lynne Schultz

Hello everyone,

The beauty of crisp fall days has been gracing our farm, and we hope this email finds you well. We have some updates and exciting news to share with you.

Josh has been hard at work, helping with the harvest of soybeans and corn. The fields have been a flurry of activity, and it's meant long days and nights. The harvest season is a demanding but crucial time for our farm, and we're grateful for the dedication Josh and our team put into it. Unfortunately, it also means that our schedules are packed, and we've been seeing very little of each other until the sun sets.

On a brighter note, Michael, Daniel, and Sadie have embarked on their basketball season, and our calendar is filling up again with the joyful sounds of practices and games. It's always an exciting time for the kids, and we love cheering them on.

While the veggie harvest is slowing down for the season, we're already planning and preparing for next year. I've been busy organizing and assessing what seeds and equipment we'll need for the upcoming growing season. It's a busy time on the administrative side of the farm, but it's essential to ensure a bountiful harvest in the future.

Although the daily veggie harvesting is tapering off, there are still plenty of vegetables in the fields, giving us the opportunity to enjoy a slightly more relaxed pace. This week, I took a lovely fall drive to pick up chicken and duck from the processors. As a result, we have a wonderful selection of meat for you to choose from.

The veggie lineup is once again full of vibrant options, and we're introducing some new items. Today, let's shine a spotlight on Delicata squash. This flavorful squash is a true delight, and we'd like to share more about it.

About Delicata Squash: Delicata squash is a cream-colored, cylindrical-shaped squash with green stripes. Its flesh is sweet and creamy, making it a fantastic choice for roasting and enjoying as a side dish, in soups, or as a base for stuffed preparations.

Preparation and Storage: To prepare Delicata squash, wash it, cut it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. The skin is edible, so there's no need to peel it. You can roast Delicata squash by slicing it into half-inch rings, tossing them in olive oil, and seasoning with salt and pepper.

For storage, keep Delicata squash in a cool, dark place. It should last for several weeks when stored properly.

Delicata Squash Recipes: Here are five delightful recipes to make the most of this delicious squash:

  1. Roasted Delicata Squash Rings: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until caramelized and tender.
  2. Stuffed Delicata Squash: Fill the squash halves with a mixture of grains, vegetables, and herbs, and bake to perfection.
  3. Delicata Squash Soup: Create a creamy soup with roasted Delicata squash, onions, and warming spices.
  4. Delicata Squash and Kale Salad: Slice the roasted squash and toss it with kale, dried cranberries, and a zesty vinaigrette.
  5. Delicata Squash Fries: Cut the squash into thin strips, season, and bake for a healthier alternative to fries.

As we savor the changing seasons and prepare for the cozy months ahead, we look forward to sharing the autumn harvest with you. Thank you for being part of our CSA, and we hope you have a fantastic week.

Warm regards,

The Schultz Family ??