A Gardener's Feast: Favorite Dishes from My Garden

As a gardener, I find endless joy in cultivating not just plants but also flavors. One of the most rewarding things is transforming the bounty of my garden into delicious dishes for the table. Let’s explore a few of my favorites that turn my garden produce into culinary delights.

Tomato Salad - A Taste of Summer

When summer rolls in, something as simple as a fresh tomato salad becomes a favorite. Sliced tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with salt, vinegar, and fresh basil, are all that’s needed. You can mix in some minced fresh garlic and cracked black pepper for a little extra zest. It’s a light yet flavorful dish to enjoy while the sun is warm.

Grilled Cheese and Mac Cheese - Comfort in Every Bite

Seasonal garden produce extends to more than just salads. I also love giving grilled cheese and mac and cheese a gardener twist. Scallions (green onions) and rosemary from the garden add a fresh, aromatic touch that elevates these humble dishes. Fresh scallions can be finely chopped and mixed into the cheese or butter for the grilled cheese, while the rosemary leaves can be added to the cheese sauce for the mac and cheese, giving them a delightful aroma and flavor.

Snow Peas and Green Onions Stir Fries

As the spring turns to summer, my stir fries become more colorful and varied. Snow peas and green onions are natural partners in these quick and delicious dishes. I sauté them with some garlic and a touch of soy sauce or oyster sauce. The freshness of the garden produce is truly a delight.

Seasonal Zucchini Stir Fries

Later in the summer, my stir fries include zucchini, adding another layer of freshness and richness. Whether they are sautéed with garlic and olive oil, or stir-fried with more garden herbs, zucchini brings a unique texture and flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Jalapeno Poppers: A Year-Round Favorite

One of my absolute favorite dishes to make from my garden is jalapeno poppers. I love them so much that I make about 80 of them every year and freeze them to enjoy throughout the year. These are a little more time-consuming to make, but they are well worth the effort. Here’s the recipe:

Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Ingredients: 10 jalapeno peppers, seeded and halved; 6 1/2 oz cream cheese, softened; 3 1/2 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese; 4 slices bacon, fried and chopped; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/4 tsp salt Steps: Wash the jalapeno peppers in cold water and remove the stems. Cut the jalapeno peppers in half and use a spoon to remove the seeds. Fry the bacon until crispy, then place it in a Cuisinart food processor to finely chop. In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, red pepper flakes, and salt, then pulse until smooth. Using a small 1 tablespoon scoop, fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture, smoothing the top with gloved hands. Place the stuffed jalapenos in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. Dredging and Coating: For the first coating, in a small bowl, whisk together 90g flour and half and half. Use two sets of tongs to dip the stuffed jalapenos into the milk mixture, then coat with the flour mixture. Place them back in the refrigerator for an hour. For the second coating, in a food processor, combine 8 oz of plain bread crumbs with garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Process until well mixed. Use the same dipping method as for the first coat, then coat with the bread crumb mixture and place back in the refrigerator for another hour. Fry the coated jalapenos in a deep fat fryer set to 356°F (180°C) for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a paper plate or towel, then allow to cool in the refrigerator overnight before freezing in vacuum-sealed bags for storage.

These jalapeno poppers not only are delicious but also are a perfect way to use up the abundance of fresh peppers from the garden.

Conclusion

Growing and using garden produce directly in the kitchen is a joy that extends beyond the taste of the food. It’s also a nourishment of the soul, connecting each ingredient back to its origins. From simple salads to complex dishes like jalapeno poppers, my garden is a source of creativity and satisfaction in the kitchen.