For those of us lucky enough to live on or near Crooked Pines Farm, seasonal cooking is a year-round joy. Our fertile soil, countless pollinators, and dedicated team of farmers ensure a bountiful harvest of the freshest, most flavorful produce. In the kitchen, we take great pride in sourcing locally and celebrating the unique properties of each vegetable, whether through simple roasting and sautéing, or more involved grilling and steaming techniques.
Our approach to farm-to-table cooking starts in the soil. By prioritizing sustainable gardening practices like companion planting, mulching, and nutrient-rich amendments, we cultivate fruits and veggies bursting with natural sweetness, vibrant colors, and concentrated nutrients. This commitment to healthy, ethical farming translates directly to the nourishing meals we prepare in the Crooked Pines kitchen.
Of course, the real magic happens once those just-picked veggies make their way into our recipes. Our culinary team has crafted an array of seasonal dishes that showcase the flavors of the farm, from simple slaws and roasted veggie medleys to more elaborate quiches, tarts, and grain-based salads. We layer complementary spices and herbs to enhance the inherent deliciousness, and avoid heavily processed ingredients whenever possible.
Whether you’re a regular at our farm stand or simply someone who appreciates the goodness of local, sustainably grown produce, we hope you’ll find inspiration in the seasonal creations that emerge from our kitchen. Read on for a sampling of our favorite vegetable-forward recipes, each one a celebration of the Crooked Pines growing season.
Asparagus, Leek, Bacon & Croissant Bread Pudding
When local asparagus arrives each spring, our chefs get to work dreaming up creative ways to showcase its tender, grassy flavor. This savory bread pudding, made with croissants and studded with smoky bacon and sautéed leeks, is a perennial customer favorite. The custard-soaked bread provides a rich, satisfying base, while the asparagus spears lend a bright, verdant note.
For an extra dose of farm-fresh flavor, we like to use our own pastured eggs and a sprinkle of chives from the garden. Served warm, this dish makes a wonderful main course or side for brunch, lunch, or even a lighter dinner. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete, nourishing meal.
Kale, Pumpkin Seed & Bacon Brittle
Kale is a staple green at Crooked Pines, and we simply can’t get enough of its hardy texture and nutrient density. In this inventive recipe, we transform the humble kale leaf into a crispy, flavorful “brittle” that makes a delightful snack or salad topping.
The key is to sauté the kale in small batches until it’s golden brown and delightfully crunchy. We then toss it with a quick caramel made from maple syrup, cider vinegar, and a sprinkling of sea salt. Toasted pumpkin seeds and crumbled bacon (from our own pastured pigs, of course) add protein, crunch, and salty-sweet appeal.
This versatile kale brittle keeps for up to a week, making it an ideal homemade gift or on-the-go nibble. It also adds a delightful textural contrast to our Kale Caesar Salad or as a garnish for hearty soups and stews.
Savory Rustic Tarts
One of our favorite ways to showcase the bounty of the season is through our selection of savory rustic tarts. These free-form pastries provide the perfect canvas for an ever-changing array of roasted, sautéed, and caramelized veggies.
Our simple, foolproof tart dough comes together in the food processor, eliminating the need for rolling or special equipment. Once the dough has chilled, we layer on fillings like roasted tomatoes, sautéed cabbage and apples, or caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese. The pleated edges create a lovely, rustic presentation that’s sure to impress.
These tarts make a wonderful main course when paired with a fresh salad, or they can be served as an appetizer or side. The flaky, buttery crust and seasonal veggie fillings make them a crowd-pleasing choice for everything from casual family dinners to special events.
Farm-Fresh Eggs: Deviled, Frittata, and More
With hundreds of free-range chickens roaming our pastures, eggs are a constant source of abundance at Crooked Pines. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or a light supper, these nutrient-dense gems are a kitchen staple.
Our classic deviled eggs feature a vibrant, herbaceous spinach-basil pesto that adds a delightful pop of color and flavor. For a heartier meal, our leek, spinach, and Gruyère frittata makes a satisfying vegetarian option. And for a portable, farm-inspired sandwich, you can’t beat our Green Island Farm Egg Sandwich, topped with fresh greens and a bit of creamy goat cheese.
Of course, no trip to the Crooked Pines Farm stand is complete without a carton of our vibrant, sustainably raised eggs. Their deep orange yolks and firm, flavorful whites are the perfect addition to everything from baked goods to simple fried or scrambled preparations.
Seasonal Celebrations and Farm Life Chronicles
As a family-owned operation, Crooked Pines Farm is deeply rooted in the rhythms of the changing seasons. From the first stirrings of spring to the final harvest of fall, we celebrate each milestone with special events, hands-on activities for kids, and good old-fashioned farm fun.
In the spring, you’ll find us gathered for an Easter egg hunt, admiring the blooming wildflowers along our nature trails. Summer brings a bounty of u-pick opportunities, where families can gather their own fresh produce. And as the air turns crisp in autumn, we host an annual Harvest Festival complete with pumpkin painting, hayrides, and s’mores by the fire.
throughout the year, we also delight in the everyday moments that make up farm life. Whether it’s collecting eggs from the coop, tending to our vegetable garden, or simply watching the sunset over the fields, these simple joys inspire and nourish us. We’re thrilled to share these experiences through our farm-to-table recipes, DIY crafts, and “day-in-the-life” chronicles.
We hope that by connecting with the land and seasons at Crooked Pines, our customers will develop a deeper appreciation for the food they consume and the vital role that sustainable agriculture plays in supporting local communities and the environment. After all, every meal is an opportunity to savor the bounty of the farm – and there’s no better place to do so than right here at Crooked Pines.
