One Local Summer, The End: New England

Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Just like the great irony of a New England summer, OLS is coming to an end just as everything seems to be in season and abundant at once: tomatoes and corn are sharing market space with melons and stone fruits, beans, zucchini and even the beginning of winter squashes.  And just as it all comes in, bang...summer’s over.  Just like this year’s OLS challenge.  But here in New England, I know we’ll continue to eat like royalty and keep squirreling away the some of the bounty for winter’s long stay.

A big thank you to all the New England participants, as well as our regulars.  Cheers!

Erica continues her Recipe project, and this week’s meal was Braised Lamb Shanks with Sun-dried Tomatoes, Orange, and Rosemary. Except with fresh tomatoes and not sun-dried. And turnips instead of carrots. And dried herbs instead of fresh...well, how bad could braised lamb be, anyway?  Don’t worry Erica, just like white shoes after Labor day, braising lamb before Labor Day has now become socially acceptable!  Just look at what Leslie had…

For this week’s finale, Leslie feasted on braised lamb, too!  She marinated it in olive oil and rosemary, and accompanied the meal with a fantastic sounding sage potato dish.  Hop on over to her blog to see the recipe for the potatoes.

Sarah gave us a great summary of some of what she’s been eating this summer.  Glad to see she hasn’t missed out on things like fresh corn on the cob, roasted veggies and lots of squash!  Sounds like she’s been able to put up lots of supplies for good winter eating, too!

Shiitake mushrooms on pasta with cream sauce and salad made up Laurie’s meal.  I want local shiitakes, I want local shiitakes!  Not to mention a shop in town that makes pasta… Delicious looking meal, Laurie!

We also feasted with friends this week, on a roasted local chicken, fresh corn on the cob and a big tossed salad.  But lunch the next day of a tossed salad with roasted chicken was my favorite local meal of the week. 

Happy fall, everyone!  I hope to see many of you again in October when the Eat Local Challenge rolls around.  Thanks for letting me into your blogs every week, and I’ve enjoyed getting to see what people are eating around New England.