Food Tastes Better When…

Living Social got some of my business a while back when I bought a coupon for a box of produce from Suburban Organics. Not only is all of this company’s produce certified organic, but it also delivers right to your doorstep!

I was already excited about getting a $25 box at half the price through this deal, but I would soon discover a cooking method that would make this deal even sweeter.

When trying a new restaurant or obtaining a deal such as this, I try to branch out and take on a new culinary adventure. Whether it be a different way of preparation, unique presentation, or new ingredient, I do my best to stretch myself when life allows. In this case along with some staple produce in my order, I selected beets as my new experience. I know beets aren’t anything new, but I think I’ve only ever eaten them once or twice and I certainly had never prepared them.

Beets and Blood Orange

Much to my delight after placing my order, I started researching my options for preparing beets and I realized I could eat the entire plant! Now that’s value! So I decided to keep the roots fairly simple and roasted them with olive oil, salt and pepper. However, I also received a few blood oranges in my box and decided to juice one, make a vinaigrette, cut up another for segments and harvest some zest. It was like McDonald’s, because I was lovin’ it.

Food tastes even better when it's a great value!

The other part of this plant is of course its leaves. When I prepared the roots, I cleaned and stored the leaves for later use. After a few days of insecurity, I picked up some locally made sweet potato gnocchi to pair with the beet greens. I must say it was a great combo. I liked this dish even more than the beets themselves! (Of course, I think my brain made both taste even better because of my living social deal and the ability to consume the entire plant.)

I only used Suburban Organics that one time, but it was a great experience. If I didn’t have the local farmer’s market options that I do have, I would take advantage of it more frequently. I am at least able to say I found a new root to try a few more times when they’re at the market this summer.