CSA Tasting & Cooking Demo - recap

Last week we had our first CSA event, and a successful one at that. Chef Mike and his sous chef, Jason (not a CSA member, just a really good friend) donated their time and enthusiasm to create a very enjoyable night; sharing with us a delicious menu, many cooking techniques, and lots of food information and tips.

The menu began with a Watermelon and Cucumber Tonic that paired quite nicely with the gin so generously supplied by Chef Mike. Even virgin, it was refreshing and minty.

Next we munched on a Peach and Cucumber Salsa with chips using the juicy peaches from our farm.

A fancy looking, but extremely easy to prepare Beet Carpaccio followed. A surprise hit of the evening. Next, Chef Mike prepared a Napa Asian Salad that we ate hot, but would be delicious as a cold salad as well. This one packed a bit of heat...maybe the chili paste was a bit too much for some of us (but others loved the heat), but chef Mike told us how tone it down. We ended the tasting with Chef Mike's No Cook Summer Sauce w/ Whole Wheat Pasta. A nice, hearty summer dish and a great way to use all of the CSA bounty.

Thank you Rachel and Jess for letting us use your kitchen.

Our intent was to offer an intimate, interactive event - which is why we had such a limited number of spaces available. However, from the immediate response and subsequent Evite rsvp's and notes, there is much interest in this type of event and we are already trying to secure another night. If you would like to volunteer your kitchen, we need a large enough space for ~15 people to be able to view an area/counter big enough to prepare all the dishes. email if you want to discuss this further. Also, Chef Mike and Jason are available for personal events and custom in-home classes. Send an email if you are interested or want more information.