I finally took the plunge and joined a CSA (community supported agriculture). After much research, I landed on Wood Duck Farm. I was attracted to Wood Duck Farm primarily because the CSA offered a mix of fruits and vegetables. In addition, they allowed members to order a partial share. Although V and I are vegetarian, the full share is still too much food for us to consume especially with our garden supplementing daily meals.
What are the benefits of a CSA?
- Cheaper way to buy organic produce. Doing the math, the CSA comes out cheaper than purchasing the same vegetables from Whole Foods.
- Being kind to the environment. The vegetables cover less transporation ground (farm to comsumer) resulting in fewer emissions. Also, no chemicals are used in the production of your delicious vegetables and fruits.
- Adding variety (and nutrients) to your diet. You are forced to incorporate vegetables into your diet especially ones that you would not have normally purchased.
- Supporting your local farmers!!!
There are numerous CSAs in Houston. Here is the link to Wood Duck Farm: http://www.woodduckfarm.com/
This week's CSA included: peaches, eggplants, tomatoes, potatoes, arugula, onions, and a watermelon. For a friend's BBQ on Saturday, I made watermelon, arugula, and feta salad with balsamic dressing.
Watermelon, Arugula, Feta Cheese Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
1/2 medium sized watermelon (cut in triangle slices without rind)
3 cups arugula
3-4 oz crumbled feta cheese
- Arrange watermelon slices on bottom
- Sprinkle with a little kosher salt on top
- Layer arugula on top
- Add crumbled feta on top
Dressing:
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
- Put ingredients in a jar and shake
- Sprinkling dressing on top right before serving.
- Also be sure to keep the salad cold.
