Simple recipe ideas —loaded with the freshest local produce —to get kids involved in the kitchen.
What a Melon!
While choosing a perfectly ripe watermelon may seem like a gamble (after all, you can’t see what’s inside!) there are a few ways to ensure you leave with the best of the bunch.
1
Upon first glance, a sweet watermelon will be round—rather than oblong—with a dull finish and a strong stripe pattern.
2
Inspect the melon all over and choose one with a field spot (the large discolored area where the watermelon sat on the ground) that is yellow rather than white and a stem that is brown, not green.
3
Spots and scars are a welcome sight, as these signify where sugar has started to seep from the fruit.
4
Give the melon a gentle knock; it should sound hollow rather than dense.
5
Finally, the heavier the watermelon is for its size, the sweeter it will be.
Watermelon Fruit Pizza
For a simple treat, top watermelon wedges with Greek yogurt, fresh berries and mint leaves.
A-Maize-ing Graze
There are better ways to check corn’s freshness than by peeling back the husk in the store. Look for tightly-wrapped, bright green husks that are free of holes and have sticky-to-the-touch golden brown silk. Gently squeeze the cob to ensure the kernels are plump and plentiful.
For the best grilled corn, peel back the husks (without detaching entirely) and remove the silk. Pull husks back into place then soak in cold water while grill preheats (at least 10 minutes). Remove corn from water—shaking off excess—and grill directly over medium heat 15–20 minutes or until husks are charred and kernels are tender, turning occasionally. Once corn is cool enough to handle, remove husks and serve immediately.
Since late summer is peak season for corn, those ears are packed with flavor right off the grill. However, this veggie is extraordinarily versatile, making it the perfect vessel for toppings. Keep things simple with a touch of butter and a little sea salt or spice things up with one of our fool-proof flavor combos. Top with as much or as little as you like!
1
Cacio e Pepe
butter mixed with minced garlic, shredded Parmesan, cracked black pepper & chopped basil
2
Asian Inspired
sriracha mayo, teriyaki drizzle, sesame seeds, toasted panko & sliced chives or scallions
3
Guacamole Eloté
guacamole, crumbled bacon, crushed tortilla chips, crema or sour cream drizzle & hot sauce
4
Summer Heat
butter mixed with crushed pineapple, toasted coconut, hot honey drizzle & crushed red pepper
5
Backyard BBQ
butter, BBQ rub, French fried onions & BBQ drizzle
Local Flavor Recipes
Fantastic Freezer Jams
Budget Friendly, Local, Produce, Sauces, Jams & Marinades
24H
32
Enjoy the flavors of summer year-round with simple fruit spreads to spruce up your favorite meals.
Quiche Kaboom! 4 Ways
Breakfast, Budget Friendly
1H 15M
8
Stop, drop, KABOOM: quiche four ways for whatever you’re craving.
Super-Powered Pizza Stuffed Peppers
Dinner, Local, Lunch
1H 30M
4
Stuffed peppers that will give you super-powers (at least that is what you can tell the kids).
BLT Pasta Salad
Back to School, Local, Pasta, Pasta & Pizza, Salad & Slaw
15M
8
Got more veggies? Toss ‘em in! This pasta salad is a great way to use up almost any produce. Cucumbers, bell peppers and snap peas would all be delicious additions.
