Sunflowers & Savoring
Welcome to the Carters' Farm Newsletter, where you can find information on farm events and produce, our favorite recipes, and reflections from the family.
It was a perfect summer day to snip sunflowers by the sleepy strawberry patch. Stay tuned for opportunities next summer to explore the farm’s newest sunflower patch!
SUMMER AVOCADO CAPRESE
When our tomato patrons choose their variety at the markets, I often ask them what they intend to make with their tomatoes. The answer is almost a given: they intend to eat their tomato simply, more or less “as is” When we talk more, we share notes about our favorite ways to dress the tomatoes—a little olive oil, a little salt, maybe a little basil. Quality asks for delicate adornment.
I made this arrangement out of a glorious abundance of freshly-picked tomatoes and basil leaves, which were delivered kindly as a hostess gift. I decided to serve the caprese salad as a light appetizer for our dinner party. I sliced several of our classic tomatoes—a mix of Bush Early Girls and New Yorker varieties, and I interposed the slices with avocado, herb goat cheese, and basil leaves. I seasoned the platter with salt and pepper, olive oil, and the fig balsamic glaze we had on hand. The oil and flavors are minimal and light, so it left us plenty of room to indulge in a pot roast entree and a subsequent dessert. My favorite part about this dish is that it allows me to isolate some of my favorite flavors and teaches me to savor.
—Renée Carter
INGREDIENTS
tomato
avocado
soft cheese (mozzarella is traditional, goat cheese or fromage blanc will change it up)
fresh basil (be indulgent with fresh herbs—I topped the platter with bits of fresh parsley as well)
balsamic glaze (the glaze is condensed, sweetened balsamic, but pure balsamic vinegar will do)
olive oil
salt & pepper
We hope you enjoy this tasteful recipe. The farm is brimful with several varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, kale, dill, and peppers. But sweet corn is soon to arrive as well!
If you’re local or happen to be in the area, you can find our fresh produce at the Park Rapids (Saturday), Walker (Thursdays), and Detroit Lakes (Tuesday & Saturday) farmers’ markets. You can also find our tomatoes in the recipes of Necce’s Italian Ristorante in Park Rapids!
Till next time…