What’s In Your Share This Week? (Spring CSA!)

Although some of that winter weather is still holding on, Spring is officially here! And, we can tell by the new produce items popping up each week.

Market Share customers can expect to see asparagus and leek sprouts in their shares this week.

Asparagus are super versatile and delicious. Although most of us are used to seeing green or purple asparagus there is also a white variety that is crunchy and sweet!  Before consuming, either raw or cooked, be sure to give your asparagus a good washing. These stalks push up through the ground and sometimes have dirt trapped in the flower-like leaves on top.

Another prep tip for asparagus regards the stems. The stems of asparagus can be woody and hard to chew through. But, asparagus does this cool thing where you can break off any tough ends by snapping them–when you bend, it will naturally snap in the spot where it becomes woody! To get the most out of your bunch of asparagus you can also simply peel away a few layers from the bottom of the stems before preparing.

If you’re unsure of what to do with your asparagus or any other item in your Market Share bag, check out the recipes below for inspiration:

Try out simple preparations for asparagus with an easy Roasted Asparagus or Sauteed Asparagus recipe

Sub in mustard greens and take advantage of those chilly temperatures by preparing a hearty Kale, Potato, and Chorizo soup

Or, keep it light and fresh with a salad bar style Kitchen Sink salad

And, if you didn’t find a recipe that suits you, head over to our Recipe page for easy seasonal suggestions.

So, what’s new this week?

Our partnership with the Common Grain Alliance continues on!

This week customers can expect dried beans from Next Step Produce, located in Newburg, MD.

Farmers Heinz Thomet and Gabrielle Lajoie founded Next Step Produce with a commitment to growing nourishing food in harmony with nature.

Through regenerative practices—including building organic matter in soil and supporting pollinator habitats—Next Step Produce grows food that is very flavorful with high nutritional value to nourish both people and the planet.

Customers will receive Maryland grown Black Turtle Beans from Next Step Produce!

These Black Turtle beans are meaty with a rich flavor and are well-suited for many uses, including stews, refried beans, dips, and patties.

Like most storage foods, dried beans are best stored in cool, dark, and dry spaces in an airtight container.

And, for the best results, we suggest heading over to the Spring 2022 Grain Share page for recipes and cooking instructions.

Once you’ve properly prepared your dried beans, consider making a colorful Black Bean Confetti Salad for the whole family to enjoy!

Looking for meaningful ways to engage young eaters and learners in your family? Check out our FoodPrints Anywhere activities or read on for more ideas:

Trying new foods can be scary for kids and adults alike. Prepare yourself for a family taste test using the strategies presented in this FoodPrints Wellness video.

Then, use our handy Five Senses Taste Test guide and put your strategies to the test!

Or, take it easy and relax while watching fun educational videos on FoodPrints TV 😉

With all the Spring flowers in bloom, you may want to check out our video on Pollinators and Flowering Plants.