One of the best things about summer is the vigorous burst of growth that brings bushels of fresh local produce to our dinner plates. Our gardens, farmers’ markets, and natural food stores are suddenly a colorful explosion of delectable edibles that were grown in Maine’s soil. The following article will help you cook, preserve, and share the fruits of summer. But first, there’s nothing better than a fresh carrot or tomato eaten within hours of being picked!
Buying
Buying produce from stores isn’t the only way to find local veggies! You can sign up for a CSA, find a local farmers’ market, join a co-op, or visit a farm stand. Eat Maine Foods! has a great map of all of these venues across the state, and more. Get Real. Get Maine. also has a database of farms and farmers’ markets that is searchable by zip code or by favorite vegetable
Cooking
If you like to experiment with different flavors, textures, and colors in the kitchen, these links will take you to some inspiring recipes:
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension: List of local produce recipes
MOFGA: Recipes for Maine Harvest Lunch
Eat Maine Foods! Cooking videos with Chef Frank Giglio
Preserving
If you’d like to enjoy summer fruits and vegetables all year round, learn how to preserve! There are summer canning and preserving workshops happening throughout the state, and they are compiled by the UMaine Cooperative Extension for your perusal.
Sharing
If you have a garden, sharing your harvest can be a generous and feel-good way of using up your excess produce at the end of the summer. Even better, plant an extra row and donate the vegetables as they come! Maine Harvest for Hunger connects gardens and growers to donation centers and food pantries across Maine. Visit UMaine Cooperative Extension to learn more about the program and follow the How to Get Involved link.
Happy crunching, cooking, canning, and harvesting!
