Do Good – Click and Grow Community Gardens

As a gardener, I had to share this useful information that I found in my new Country Living magazine. Let’s help!

Dig in and help community gardens thrive-without getting your hands dirty or spending a dime. As part of its Giving Through Growing program, Robert Mondavi’s Woodbridge winery donates $1 to the American Community Garden Association for every free “virtual” seed emailed from woodbridgewines.com/garden. Just hit send to support “locally” tended plots in urban areas that need funds the most.

Garden Fresh Organic Produce – Cool as a Cucumber Recipe

In Wisconsin, I share an organic vegetable garden with my friend Leslie.  The garden is located in a beautiful countryside setting and produces an outstanding array of fruits, herbs and vegetables. We are welcoming raspberries, currents, green beans, cukes and onions (just to name a few) and the canning/freezing frenzy has started. Here’s a refreshing cucumber

Cool as a Cucumber Japanese Salad

recipe that goes with almost anything. Check out our Dim Sum Dinner Party Kit at www.snapoutofit.com for other recipe ideas.

Japanese Cucumber Salad

2 medium cucumbers (English if possible)
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

1. Peel cucumbers to leave alternating green stripes. Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise; scrape the seeds out with a spoon. Using a food processor or sharp knife, cut into very thin slices. Place in a double layer of paper towel and squeeze gently to remove any excess moisture.
2. Combine vinegar, sugar and salt in a medium bowl, stirring to dissolve. Add the cucumbers and sesame seeds; toss well to combine. Serve immediately.