Garden Snowflake

Another morning of freeze warnings and snowflakes.

For a time now, the gardener within could not resist prepping soil and throwing seed. Recently, I connected with a like minded spirit who wanted to share seeds she had harvested last fall. Because of her I have now planted Mexican Hat and Silver Dollar. We share a connection with the soil and from gardener to gardener, I thank her for the offering. When together I expressed my gratitude but I don't think she realized just what she had gifted me. She gave me an opportunity to go into the garden with purpose, cultivate a sense of renewal, begin with the Spring Season. Later when the seeds sprout plants and then throw flowers, I'll think of her while appreciating the results of her kindness.

This Winter has been long and Spring long in coming. And as a consequence I have held the saying "Hope Springs Eternal" very close to the heart. It has given me a sense of patience. However, cabin fever can only be truly mitigated by hands in the soil and by the planting of tomatoes, chiles, cebollina and herbs. By virtue of that, this wet morning I see snowflakes and dream of tomatillos! Thank you again, Betty, my new gardening friend

"No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn."
Hal Borland

In Search of Saffron!

Thus the season begins. I review my ingredients for Paella and notice that the saffron stores are low. Currently, friend and Paella god "Markito" is visiting family in Barcelona and the arrival of saffron is imminent. He is to return in a matter of days which puts me at ease, somewhat.

Hibernate for the winter - then comes the sun. It's the change of season that spins my way of thinking. Spring weather by nature is inclement; cold days followed by brilliant sunshine. Combine the weekend with clear skies and the back-garden will see much activity. Big salads and fresh breads and chunks of cheese to sate the guests 'til the Paella has cooked and been given ten minutes of repose. In the resting, all flavors blend and the rice mellows while sucking up olive oil, saffron and seafood.

Pictured above is a recent Paella made in the home of my good friend Peter. The indoor variety is good but lacks the savoriness of a Paella exposed to smoke. Yes, I long for a wood-fire in the open air to undertake the next Paella but I shall forever remember the words spoken to me by an old man in the south of Spain; "The best Paella, is the one you have in front of you!" I agree wholeheartedly but cooking out of doors and over fire gives flavor to everything. Most notably, it gives flavor to life.

An Autumn so Bright you'll need Shades!!!

Not quite September and I have yet to begin thinking about an encroaching autumnal equinox. No doubt, I'll come to terms with the change of season but not just yet. The gardens are bumper crop perhaps due to the ample rains of June, years of prepping the soil or a combination of all of the above. No explaining it really. It's just time to revel in the garden and the kitchen.

I received a hefty hook-neck squash from my gardening brother Joe and matched it with the tomatoes growing at my house. The colors combined pop like a tropical flower, full of life and urgently vibrant. Oh, how I love this time of year.

OK, this recipe is so simple, I feel a little shy in sharing it. But give it a try with a gift from your squash fairy (everyone has at least one), you'll love it. So will your family and guests!

2 cups Squash
One hand full of Cherry Tomatoes
Splash of Chicken Broth
Splash fresh OJ
3 Tbls Puree of Roasted Red Peppers (or Ajvar)
Mince of garlic & onion
Salt & Pepper
And a pinch of Herbes de Provence, if you like.

Cook over med-high heat 'til the squash softens. I've been serving this over Crostini slices smeared with goat cheese. Add a salad to the side, dinner's done quickly. I find a dry Spanish Rose Wine (Rosado) is perfect to round out this offering.

P.S. I love using a Mandoline. It makes veggie prep simple and the clean-up is fast!