crowleystationgarden Uncategorized

Sweet Corn and Basil Salad

Summer is in full swing when sweet corn arrrives at the Madison Farmer’s Market! Pro tip: buy twice as much fresh corn than you think you need; cook at once and enjoy some for dinner. Then, skim the kernels off the remaining ears and freeze or save for later. This simple corn and basil salad is a great way to enjoy corn and use ingredients from your garden. Toss freshly cut kernels with cherry tomatoes, slivered basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon. Add a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper to bring out the corn’s natural sweetness. No basil? No problem. Add parsley. More protein? Add tangy feta or creamy goat cheese. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or light lunch. It’s quick, fresh, and celebrates summer abundance.

🌽 Sweet Corn & Basil Salad

Ingredients: 4 ears corn, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, ÂĽ cup chopped basil, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt & pepper
Step 1: Cut fresh kernels off the cob and halve tomatoes.
Step 2: Toss with basil, olive oil, lemon, salt & pepper.
Serve chilled or room temp—summer in a bowl!

crowleystationgarden Educational Content

đź“š12 Must-have Cookbooks for Midwestern Gardeners

The Upper Midwest has a rich culinary heritage, and some of the most creative voices in food are right here in Madison and nearby Minneapolis. From Indigenous ingredients to plant-based plates, this collection of cookbooks reflects the region’s deep connection to land, community, and flavor. Whether you’re craving comfort food, exploring sustainable eating, or just love a good kitchen story, these authors have something inspiring to offer. Dive into this curated list of cookbooks from local talents and discover new recipes, ideas, and the stories behind them—all rooted in the vibrant food culture of the Midwest.

crowleystationgarden Uncategorized

Herby Butter

You’ve planted, weeded, mulched, and watered … and now we wait. This is a great time to warm up your culinary skills with a simple herbed butter. Make a batch and use some now — the rest will keep in the freezer.

Method:

1. Chop about 1T of fresh herbs in any of the combinations listed below.

2. Combine with softened butter using a fork to mash together.

3. Transfer the butter mixture to a square of plastic wrap. Gently roll and shape the butter mixture into a log and refrigerate (wrapped).

4. Once the herb butter is firm, use as needed or freeze for future use. TIP: cutting tablespoon-size slices before freezing makes future cooking a breeze

Combinations:

Garlic & Chive: This savory set adds bold flavor. Try it with steak, potatoes, or green beans.

Rosemary & Sea Salt: Add this sophisticated spread to your next baguette.

Basil & Mint: Dress early season peas with this herby bend.

Parsley & Scallion: Perfect for new potatoes, carrots, or pita bread.

Thyme & Lemon Zest: Top chicken or fish with a few dabs of this butter before baking for a rich and flavorful entree.