Seasonal Produce

🌸🌱 Spring is Here! 🌱🌸

Spring has officially sprung in the Midwest, and so has a whole new bounty of fresh, delicious produce! 🌿🍓 As we say goodbye to winter’s chill, it's time to embrace the season's vibrant flavors. Here’s what’s in season now, along with some fun canning recipes and crafts to help you make the most of this fresh goodness. 🍅🥕 

What’s In Season This Spring in the Midwest

• Asparagus: The tender, earthy spears are perfect for grilling, sautéing, or even pickling.  
  - Radishes: Crisp and peppery, radishes are perfect for salads, roasting, or adding a little zing to your dishes.
  - Strawberries: Sweet and juicy—this is the best time to stock up on strawberries for jams and desserts!  
  - Spinach: A leafy green that's perfect for fresh salads or sautéed as a side dish.  
  - Rhubarb: Tart and tangy, rhubarb shines in pies, jams, and sauces. 

Spring Canning Recipes:

 🌿 Radish Pickles:
These quick and easy radish pickles are perfect for brightening up sandwiches, tacos, or just enjoying on their own.

Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of radishes, sliced thin
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 garlic clove, smashed
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns

Directions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat vinegar, water, sugar, salt, garlic, and spices over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Place sliced radishes in a jar, then pour the hot brine over them. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying!

🍓 Strawberry Jam:
Capture the taste of spring all year long with homemade strawberry jam. A classic favorite for a reason. 

Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, mashed
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 packet fruit pectin

Directions:
1. In a large pot, mix the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add pectin and continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, until it thickens.
4. Pour into sterilized jars, seal, and let cool before storing.

DIY Spring Crafts:

🌸 Flower Pressing: 
Collect spring blooms like violets, daisies, and lilacs, then press them between parchment paper in a heavy book for a week. Once flattened, use the pressed flowers to decorate homemade greeting cards, bookmarks, or even frame them for a cute spring wall art display.

🍯 Honey-Dipped Candle Crafting:
Create your own beeswax candles by rolling sheets of beeswax into beautiful candles. You can even infuse them with dried herbs or flowers for a touch of natural charm. These make great gifts, or you can keep them to add a soft glow to your spring evenings.

🌼 Pressed Herb Sachets:
After pressing flowers, you can use any leftover herbs like lavender, rosemary, or mint to create fragrant sachets. Fill small fabric pouches with the herbs, and you'll have a lovely way to bring the scent of spring into your home or gift them to friends.

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So, grab your baskets and get ready to celebrate the season with fresh produce, tasty recipes, and fun crafts! 🧺💐 Whether you're preserving the flavors of spring or making beautiful homemade items, there’s so much to enjoy. What's your favorite spring activity? Share with us in the comments! 🌷

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