my first CSA & recipes

Another adventure I have been holding out on is participating in my first CSA.

Each week we get a "surprise" bundle of local fresh produce. It has been a bit of a challenge to find way of incorporating new-to-me produce. I'd never cooked with a turnip in my life. And I have no idea what many of the greens are, including the upper right bunch (help!). Most weeks I cut up all the greens and mix together to eat in salads all week, which is probably not the best way to eat exotic greens.

A collection of herbs each week. Basil, thyme, sage, and rosemary.

While it has been a bit of challenge to use up the food during a busy week, I am a fan of joining a CSA simply because it forces you incorporate/eat really healthy foods. I am probably not the only one who needs a extra accountability to eat a large amount of vegetables EVERY WEEK. Bonus that it supports the local economy (of course).

Don't forget to follow Kara and Erin (which I posted about here) if you need garden recipe ideas. And below are the recipes that I or a friend have tried and recommend:

Rainbow Chard Pesto

Sweet Potato & Turnip Mash with Sage Butter

Summer Vegetable Tian

Pasta with Kale & Walnut Pesto

Sweet Spicy Turnips 

Sweet & Tangy Sauteed Collard Greens

I'd love to know if you tried and loved a CSA? Or if you have any great seasonal recipes to try?!