Markus and I love gardening. It’s so rewarding to be able to step outside and snack on whatever is growing. This year we had one of our most successful winter gardens! We planted various kinds of Swiss Chard, Kale & Snow Peas. But we also had success with Broccoli, Romanesco Cauliflower, Leeks, Celery and our annual Artichokes.

Our dog, Nadia, is a great helper in the garden! She likes to snack on kale but she prefers snow peas. My favorite Kale Salad recipe is torn leaves, massaged (yes, massaged-use your hands to tenderize the leaves!) with extra virgin olive oil and fresh squeezed lemon juice. Toss with roasted pine nuts and grated parmesan cheese. It’s so good and healthy!

Our first attempt at home grown celery yielded success! (Below)

 

Romanesco Cauliflower (Below) I love to simply roast it in the oven with olive oil, salt and a sprinkle of Garam Marsala spice!

Below is Swiss Chard. I like to saute the greens in olive oil with garlic & lemon juice. Add in raisins (soaked in wine) and roasted pine nuts before serving.

Our home grown artichokes are so yummy and tender when picked small. Here is a link to our favorite grilled baby artichokes recipe! https://www.lizbokisch.com/grilled-baby-artichokes-with-allioli

Okay, I couldn’t resist another doggy photo! She’s discovered that poppies are not so yummy to eat but they sure are pretty to look at!