In Issue #12: Summer 2023

I remember the evenings after dinner when the dishes were dried and put away, my mom and I would sneak off for some ice cream. Sometimes it was a little drive downtown to Dolly Madison where we debated over mint chocolate chip, only green-colored of course, or cherry vanilla—scooped into sugar cones was a must. Other times we would go two blocks up the street to Dairy Queen for Buster Bars with its chocolate-and-peanut filling, because the middle reminded us of our favorite candy—frozen Snickers bars.

Create your own new memories. Get a lick of Vermont’s homemade ice cream or a velvety creemee. Explore pick-your-own farms, which can be found anywhere throughout the state. In this issue, we are fortunate to engage with two amazing women eager to discuss their latest cookbooks. In Ciao Italia: Plant, Harvest, Cook! Simple Planting Advice and 100+ Easy Italian-Inspired Recipes, Mary Ann Esposito, host of the long-running PBS show of the same name, “Ciao Italia,” offers advice on gardening and presents simple Italian recipes to enjoy this summer. Gesine Bullock-Prado, who teaches popular classes at her Sugar Glider Kitchen and King Arthur Baking School, shares anecdotes and farm-based recipes in My Vermont Table: Recipes for All (Six) Seasons.

In several features we pay tribute to those who are dedicated to sustainable farming, including our interview with Grace Oedel, executive director of NOFA-VT; our spotlight on Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center; and in our insert of Edible for Kids™. Also, be sure to heed Melany Kahn’s tips on foraging for wild mushrooms and V Smiley’s guidance on making jam.

There are few things more rewarding, delicious, and satisfying than savoring food straight from a local farm or your very own garden. We have so much to be thankful for in this beautiful, bountiful state especially those committed to taking care of our land and providing the freshest vegetables, fruits, and dairy.

The season isn’t over by a long shot—get out and plant! There is still time to get some seeds in the ground and to reap the benefits of your own bounty through the fall season.

Enjoy the summer,
Marcia