June 2024 Newsletter
Hello Beautiful Mama,
As we welcome the warm embrace of summer, we are reminded of the vibrancy and energy that this season brings. It’s a time for growth, renewal, and basking in the golden sunlight. We hope you find joy and inspiration in the simple pleasures of summer–the laughter of children playing outside, the taste of fresh, juicy fruits, and the feeling of sun-kissed skin.
This season, let’s focus on taking care of ourselves in the best ways possible. Here are a few tips to help you thrive this summer:
Soak up the sun! Make the most of the sunny days by spending some time outdoors (don’t forget the sunscreen!). Sunlight is a great source of vitamin D, which is essential for our health and wellbeing. Whether it’s a leisurely walk in the park, a fun day at the beach, or just relaxing in your backyard, enjoy the warmth and light in the sun.
Stay Hydrated! With the summer heat, it’s crucial to keep ourselves hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens into your diet. Staying hydrated helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and keeps your skin glowing.
Eat Well! Nourish your body with the bountiful produce that summer has to offer. Fill your plates with fresh, colorful vegetables and fruits. These nutrient-rich foods not only taste delicious but also provide the vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy and energized. Remember, eating well is a powerful form of self care.
As you continue your journey with FarmHer to Mama, know that we are here to support you every step of the way. Our farm-fresh produce is carefully selected to bring you the best of the season, helping you and your family eat well and feel great.
We hope this summer is filled with joy, health, and abundant blessings for you and your loved ones. Embrace the season, take time for yourself, and savor every moment!
With love and sunshine,
The FarmerHer to Mama Team
Anne, Anna, Porchea, Virginia, Becca, Allyssa, & Veronica
June Goodies
Eggs from Six Day Farm (Dyer, IN) and Eden Eggs (Crown Point, IN)
Arugula, Cilantro, Radishes, and Hakurei Turnips from Rainfield Farm (New Carlisle, IN)
Asparagus and Strawberries from Mick Klug Farms (St. Joseph, MI)
Honey & Garlic Scapes from Oasis Botanic Garden (Gary, IN)
Tricolor Sugar Snap Peas from Kankakee Valley Homestead (Walkerton, IN)
Green Onions from Hulitt Homestead (Portage, IN) and Tuholski Produce (La Porte, IN)
Tahini Dressing from Mrs. Dornberg’s Culinary Experience (Highland, IN)
Bacon from Tanglewood Acres (Mill Creek, IN)
Foodie Tips
Perfect Boiled Eggs: For easy-to-peel boiled eggs, add a pinch of baking soda to the water. Boil for 10-12 minutes for fully cooked yolks, then cool in an ice bath.
Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with sliced radishes, Hakurei turnips, and a drizzle of tahini dressing. Top with chopped basil for a peppery, fresh salad.
Garlic Scape Pesto: Blend garlic scapes with basil, olive oil, nuts, and a bit of honey for a delicious pesto to use on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
Roasted Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic scapes, and basil, then roast at 375°F until cooked through. Serve with a side of grilled asparagus.
Honey Drizzle: Use honey as a natural sweetener in your tea, over yogurt, or drizzled on toast. **Remember, raw honey is not safe for infants under 12 months!
Featured FarmHer: Sarah Dillon from Rainfield Farm
Hello!
I’m Sarah and I am one half of Rainfield Farm, a small-scale, 1.25 acre farm specializing in lettuce mixes, herbs, and flowers for stores, schools, and restaurants. My dream as a farmer was to always be able to grow, figuratively and literally, in a dedicated space with passionate women sharing in the adventure of serving our communities. Growing for grocers is fine but to be able to grow for the FarmHer to Mama program has renewed my passion for all things dirt, vegetables, and outdoors. I’ve always said, if I win the lottery, I’d still do this work but would give everything away to those who want it. I hope that as the season progresses you enjoy sharing in the harvest with us knowing that everything in your box was harvested with you in mind.
All of our dirt-filled love,
Sarah
Check out Rainfield Farm in action!
What in the world is THIS veggie in my bag?
Purple & Green Asparagus
Asparagus comes in a variety of colors and is rich in antioxidants. When preparing, snap off the “woody” part of the stem. Find the natural breaking point: Hold the spear up horizontally and break off the end where it starts to droop. Then eat raw, steam, sauté, roast, or grill!
Hakurei Turnips
These are a FarmHer favorite! They look like earth marshmallow when harvested. Hakurei turnips are also known as Japanese or salad turnips. They are delicious raw - sweet and crunchy. They are immune boosting and support your hormone balance and digestive system. The greens are also packed with nutrition and edible!
Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are a special local food treat! FarmHers harvest the flower stalk of the garlic plant - called a scape - to help the garlic grow better. You can use one scape in place of a clove of garlic in any recipe! They also make a great pesto or grilled side dish.
Arugula
Local arugula is a different experience than what you find in the store - it’s much more tender and balanced. Arugula is peppery so pairs well with lemon and parmesan flavors. You can eat it raw in a salad or put it on pizza or in pasta. You can also blend it up with your garlic scapes for a quick pesto!
A Look Ahead
July - summer squash, tomatoes, collard greens, cucumbers, & watermelon!
Join our FarmHer to Mama Facebook Group for support, recipes, tips, & community.
Questions or feedback about the program? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to Anne (info@nwifoodcouncil.org, 219-313-8828) or Porchea (porchea@nwifoodcouncil.org, 219-316-4556).
