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Beyond Basil: How to Make Pesto with Seasonal Greens

July 4, 2025 Jessica Rogers

Beyond Basil: How to Make Pesto with Seasonal Greens

Pesto isn’t just for summer—or basil.

At this time of year, Piedmont farmers markets and gardens are overflowing with vibrant leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, spinach, arugula, carrot tops, and mustard greens. These often-overlooked ingredients are perfect for creating bold, nutrient-packed pestos that go far beyond the traditional basil version.

The word pesto comes from the Italian word pestare, which means “to crush” or “pound”—a reference to how the ingredients are blended. That means you can make pesto with just about any tender green, nuts, oil, garlic, and cheese (or not!). And it’s not just for pasta. Drizzle it on roasted vegetables, meats, or seafood. Spread it on sandwiches, swirl it into soups, or whisk a spoonful into your salad dressing for a vibrant, zesty kick.

Seasonal Greens Pesto Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup nuts/seeds (almonds, pecans, pistachios, sunflower, pumpkin, walnuts, or pine nuts)

  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1–4 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 2 tsp lemon juice

  • 3 tightly packed cups of any combination of greens: kale, chard, spinach, parsley, arugula, collards, beet greens, or even carrot tops

  • 1/2 cup grated hard cheese (Parmesan, Pecorino, or Grana Padano – optional)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Toast nuts (optional but highly recommended for flavor).

  2. In a food processor, pulse together nuts, salt, lemon juice, and garlic.

  3. Add greens and pulse again.

  4. Scrape down the sides, drizzle in olive oil while pulsing until smooth.

  5. Add cheese if using, and pulse just to combine.

Want more recipes like this and tips for using local produce?
📖 Check out the full recipe on page 30 of our Spring 2025 Local Food Guide!

What’s In Season This Summer (and Why It’s Good for You!)

June 24, 2025 Jessica Rogers

🌞 What’s In Season This Summer (and Why It’s Good for You!)

Eating local, seasonal produce isn’t just a treat — it’s a wellness boost. Here’s what’s fresh during the North Carolina summer and how it helps nourish your body.

🍑 Fruits

  • Peaches – Rich in vitamins A & C, peaches support healthy skin and immune function. Their fiber also aids digestion.

  • Blueberries – Packed with antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which support brain and heart health.

  • Blackberries – High in fiber, vitamin K, and manganese; great for bone health and digestion.

  • Watermelon – Super hydrating and full of lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce inflammation.

  • Cantaloupe – Loaded with vitamin C and beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor), great for immune support and eye health.

  • Strawberries – Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants; may help regulate blood sugar and improve skin health.

  • Plums – Support digestive health and help manage blood sugar thanks to their fiber and polyphenols.

  • Figs – Provide natural sweetness along with calcium, potassium, and fiber.

  • Apples (early varieties) – Contain pectin, a fiber that supports gut health and may help lower cholesterol.

  • Muscadine & Scuppernong Grapes – High in resveratrol and antioxidants, which support cardiovascular health.

🌽 Vegetables

  • Sweet Corn – Good source of fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health.

  • Tomatoes – Loaded with lycopene, which supports heart health and may protect against sun damage.

  • Zucchini & Yellow Squash – Low in calories and high in vitamin C, potassium, and hydration.

  • Cucumbers – Very hydrating and contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

  • Green Beans – Offer fiber, vitamin C, and folate — great for cell health and immunity.

  • Okra – Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants; also supports gut health thanks to its mucilage.

  • Bell Peppers – Excellent source of vitamin C and beta-carotene; red varieties are the most nutrient-dense.

  • Hot Peppers – Contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and reduce pain and inflammation.

  • Eggplant – Rich in fiber and antioxidants like nasunin, which supports brain health.

  • Potatoes – Great source of potassium, B6, and complex carbohydrates for energy.

  • Onions – Offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, plus prebiotics for gut health.

  • Garlic – Powerful immune booster with heart-protective allicin compounds.

  • Cabbage – Contains glucosinolates that may support detoxification and reduce cancer risk.

  • Kale & Swiss Chard – Nutrient-dense greens with vitamins A, C, K, and calcium for bones and immunity.

🌿 Herbs

  • Basil – Contains antibacterial compounds and anti-inflammatory antioxidants.

  • Cilantro – Rich in vitamin K and may help detox heavy metals from the body.

  • Mint – Soothes digestion and can help relieve headaches and nausea.

  • Rosemary – Supports memory and focus, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

  • Thyme – Rich in vitamin C and known for its immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties.

  • Oregano – Contains potent antioxidants and supports respiratory health.

  • Parsley – High in vitamins A, C, and K; supports bone health and detoxification.

  • Chives – Mild onion flavor with antioxidants and vitamin K for blood and bone health.

🥚🥩 Other Local Products & Benefits

  • Eggs – High-quality protein, choline for brain health, and lutein for eye protection.

  • Pasture-Raised Meats – Often contain more omega-3 fatty acids and fewer inflammatory fats.

  • Cheeses & Goat Milk – Provide calcium and probiotics for gut and bone health.

  • Local Honey – Can soothe allergies (especially if raw/local), and has antibacterial properties.

Planting the Seeds of Change in Davidson County

June 23, 2025 Jessica Rogers

Planting the Seeds of Change in Davidson County

The Denton Seed Exchange & Its Growing Impact

What started as a small, handwritten seed library in Denton has blossomed into a thriving community movement for biodiversity, education, and sustainability.

Founded in 2014 by Susan Scarboro and Susan Craven of the Denton Public Library, the Denton Seed Exchange has become a hub for heirloom and open-pollinated seeds — preserving varieties that are resilient, non-GMO, and deeply rooted in local history. With growing interest and support, the exchange now includes a pollinator-friendly community garden and hosts an annual seed conference that inspires similar programs across North Carolina.

Why does it matter? In an era of corporate-controlled agriculture and shrinking biodiversity, saving seeds is an act of preservation — and empowerment. As Susan Scarboro says, “This is our garden... and this is the legacy I want to leave.”

Want to learn more or get involved?
👉 Discover the full story on page 25 in our Spring 2025 Local Food Guide — available now!

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