Winter CSA Has Begun: Easy Recipes for Fresh Greens & Herbs
The first day of our Winter CSA boxes is here, and we’re kicking off the season with an abundance of fresh, vibrant produce straight from the farm. This week’s boxes include strawberries, spinach, tender lettuces, tomatoes, fresh herbs, and two winter favorites that often raise questions: collard greens and mustard greens.
If you’re new to cooking with heartier greens, this post is for you. Below are three simple, approachable recipes designed to help you enjoy collards and mustard greens without overpowering flavors — just clean, fresh farm food at its best.
🥧 Savory Winter Greens Quiche (Collard Greens or Mustard Greens)
Quiche is one of the easiest ways to introduce collard or mustard greens into everyday meals. Cooking them gently mellows their flavor and makes them family-friendly.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup collard greens or mustard greens, finely chopped
- ½ cup spinach (optional, for a milder blend)
- 4 eggs
- ¾ cup milk or cream
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or feta work well)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: add bacon, diced ham, or sausage
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and lightly sauté the greens for 3–4 minutes, just until wilted. Season lightly.
- Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread greens and cheese evenly into the pie crust.
- Pour egg mixture over the top.
- Bake 35–40 minutes, until the center is set. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Tip: Collards are slightly sweet when cooked; mustard greens bring a mild peppery bite.
🥗 Simple White Balsamic Vinaigrette for Winter Greens
This light vinaigrette is perfect for tender lettuces, spinach, and even warm greens. Using regular olive oil keeps the flavor balanced and not too strong.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp olive oil (regular, not extra virgin)
- 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
- ⅛ tsp garlic powder
- ⅛ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small jar or bowl.
- Shake or whisk until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Ideas
- Toss with lettuce, spinach, and tomatoes
- Drizzle lightly over warm sautéed greens
- Use as a simple tomato-and-herb dressing
🌿 Fresh Cilantro & Tomato Salsa
This bright, fresh salsa is a great way to use winter tomatoes and herbs.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1–2 tbsp white balsamic vinegar or lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Stir gently and let sit 10–15 minutes to develop flavor.
- Serve with eggs, quiche, grilled meats, or as a topping for greens.
Missed Out on Winter CSA? Visit Us for U-Pick Saturdays
If you missed signing up for this season’s CSA boxes, you can still enjoy fresh produce straight from the farm. We are open every Saturday for U-Pick vegetables from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, with last entry at 11:00 am. It’s a great way to experience the farm, harvest your own produce, and stay connected to where your food comes from.
We look forward to seeing you in the fields this winter.
