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Fresh Ideas for This Week’s CSA: Broccolini, Red Tomatoes, Romaine Lettuce & More!

Looking to make the most of your CSA share? Here are some fun, flavorful, and easy ways to bring this week’s produce to life in your kitchen:

Basil or Cilantro

Whether you picked basil or cilantro this week, you’re set for some delicious creations:

With Basil:

  • Tomato Basil Sauce – Simmer crushed tomatoes with fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, and salt until thick and savory.

  • Caprese Skewers – Stack cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on toothpicks for an effortless appetizer.

  • Basil Lemonade – Add muddled basil leaves to classic lemonade for a refreshing summer drink.

With Cilantro:

  • Cilantro-Lime Rice – Stir chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice into warm rice.

  • Cilantro Chutney – Blend cilantro with mint, lemon juice, green chilies, and spices for a bright, tangy dip.

  • Sweet Potato & Cilantro Tacos – Roast sweet potatoes and serve in tortillas with avocado and chopped cilantro.

Red Tomatoes

Peak tomato season means endless possibilities:

  • Shakshuka – Poach eggs in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce with paprika and cumin.

  • Mexican Red Enchilada Sauce – Blend tomatoes with chili powder, garlic, and cumin for homemade enchilada sauce.

  • Tomato & Avocado Toast – Top crusty bread with mashed avocado, sliced tomatoes, salt, and chili flakes.

  • Pico de Gallo – Mix diced tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for a classic salsa.

Romaine Lettuce

Go beyond salad with these fresh takes:

  • Classic Caesar Salad – Toss chopped romaine with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan.

  • Romaine Lettuce Wraps – Use sturdy leaves as a wrap for chicken salad, tofu, or seasoned turkey.

  • Taco Salad with Romaine – Top romaine with ground beef or beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa dressing.

  • BLT Romaine Boats – Fill leaves with bacon (or a plant-based alternative), diced tomato, avocado, and a drizzle of dressing.

Broccolini

Mild and tender broccolini is quick to cook and so versatile:

  • Sheet Pan Salmon & Broccolini – Roast together with lemon and herbs for an easy dinner.

  • Lemon Chili Sautéed Broccolini – Sauté with olive oil, red pepper flakes, and finish with fresh lemon.

  • Tempura Broccolini – Dip in batter and fry for a crispy treat.

  • Air-Fried Broccolini – Toss with olive oil and air-fry until tips are crispy.

Beets

Earthy and sweet, beets shine in sweet and savory dishes:

  • Beet Smoothie – Blend cooked beets with berries, banana, and orange juice for a vibrant drink.

  • Beet & Watermelon Salad – Mix roasted beets with watermelon cubes, mint, and feta.

  • Beet Hash with Eggs – Sauté beets, potatoes, and onions; top with eggs.

  • Beet Pierogi (Polish-style) – Fill dumplings with beet and potato filling, then boil and pan-fry.

Mushrooms

Hearty and full of umami, mushrooms fit into any meal:

  • Grilled Mushroom Skewers – Marinate and grill for smoky flavor.

  • Creamy Mushroom Pasta – Sauté mushrooms in butter and garlic; stir into cream or plant-based milk with pasta.

  • Mushroom Fried Rice – Use leftover rice, mushrooms, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs.

  • Mushroom Philly Cheesesteak (Veg-Friendly) – Sauté mushrooms with onions and peppers; pile into rolls with melted cheese.

We hope these ideas inspire your weeknight meals and weekend gatherings. Enjoy the season’s freshest flavors—and let us know which recipes you try! 

 

  • Best Practices Partnership
  • Chamber
  • Candid. Platinum Transparency 2023
  • Heartland Center
  • United Way of the Midlands
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