Monday, September 17, 2012

Harvest Monday

The garden is hanging in for at least one more harvest monday. The weather has cooled off and the garden has bounced back for the most part. The tomatoes aren't pretty and suffering the effect of the heat and drought, but are still producing. The pill bugs are eating any of the big tomatoes. It is funny because they leave the San Marzanos and cherry tomatoes alone.

A volunteer Mexican sour gherkin decided to show up a couple months ago. It is now holding up a number of the tomato plants. I might just plant these around the tomatoes next year for support. 

The garlic has been curing in the garage for a few months and is absolutely perfect for cooking. The flavor is nice and mild and we have plenty.

The basil has started to go to seed so I picked a few bowls full before it goes away. I made a couple batches of pesto. I received a tip from a neighbor that pistachio substitutes well for pine nuts. Pine nuts are really expensive and Trader Joe's has hulled pistachios for $4.99 a bag. I made some with the swap and can't tell a difference.

The tomatoes and a bunch of the basil spent a good portion of the day getting reduced on the stove. It ended up making 4 pizzas worth of very good sauce. 

4 comments:

kitsapFG said...

I need to bring some of my basil in and freeze it in oil so I have some for later use. The nights are getting chilly and they won't last much longer.

That sauce looks yummy!

Susan said...

Beautiful tomatoes! I bet you'll enjoy the sauce!

Cristy said...

I planted a Mexican Sour Gherkin this spring. It is simply COVERED with teeny tiny little fruits, but they never ripened. Now the plant is turning red, like it's ready for fall and not one ever ripened for me. I like the idea of it as a plant to plant under and around taller things, too. I may try it again next year and see if I can actually get a harvest. I sure do like the looks of it.

Lisa said...

Wowie, that all looks lovely. Also, your bassinet is adorable!