It almost feels like autumn with all the squash and sweet potatoes in the Local Box this week- too bad it’s still a Texas summer outside! With temperatures reaching the ridiculous this week, make sure to stay cool inside with the occasional poolside grill night.

Meal One: Chill out and chop up some tomatoes and mushrooms for a tasty, light salad.

Meal Two: Fresh dates in Texas?! I know you’re super excited, but maybe a little confused. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back. For something sweet, try zucchini and date cake, a delicious twist on the ever popular zucchini bread. If you’re in the mood for a meal that’s a little more savory, try a carrot and date salad. 

Meal Three: Show those autumn vegetables what summer is all about! Grilled sweet potatoes besides grilled squash with a dill vinaigrette and feta cheese will have your mouth watering.

Meal Four: When the temperatures finally begin to cool towards the end of the week, make sure you cool down and relax with homemade watermelon aqua fresca.

We’re already half way though July-can you believe it? The summer is flying by! Take some time to slow down and enjoy the delicious summer harvest in this week’s Local Box.

Meal One: Try a tasty warmed arugula and squash salad  along side a bowl of honey glazed radishes  to get your Local Box week off to a delicious start.

Meal Two: Those strange little apple-looking fruits in your basket are Asian Pears and they are succulent! Try them in Asian pear pork chops or take them to work as a tasty snack.

Meal Three: There are  a lot of peppers in the  Local Box this week- try stuffing the bell peppers and drizzling them with fresh home-made salsa. 

Meal Four: And finally, finish off the week with a helping of good ol’ southern comfort peas.

We’ve made it through the Independence Day picnic and BBQ madness and now it’s just another week in July-but it doesn’t have to be! There are always opportunities to try something new and spice up your culinary routine and this week’s Local Box is ripe with delicious potential.

Meal One: Start your week off with a light, but delicious shiitake mushroom and tomato salad. 

Meal Two: Venture east with Greek-style braised okra served next to a crunch bread for soaking up okra juices!

Meal Three: Mix up the normal taco routine with some tasty peach and cucumber salsa- perfect for the summer.

Meal Four: And finally, try some balsamic roasted kabocha or butternut squash along side a delicious helping of southern comfort peas to complete your week.

Happy (almost!) 4th of July, everyone! I know it’s a day early, but we’re getting the Independence Day festivities started a little early with an awesome 4th of July picnic inspired meal plan.

Meal One: Grilled portabella mushrooms are an excellent meat substitution or compliment and look great besides roasted potatoes at an Independence Day picnic.

Meal Two: Try a delicious pinto bean and tomato salad with some chips and peach salsa!

Meal Three: Martha knows what she’s talking about - orange and cucumber kabobs are always a great picnic idea. Chop up that delicious local squash and add them to the kabobs for extra goodness!

Meal Four: And after the little sprouts have gone to bed, treat yourself to some watermelon punch. 

Check out our 4th of July Pinterest board for more great holiday ideas!