GREEN O • Tis the Season … for Summer Produce

THE OSIDER JULY/AUGUST 2021

TIS THE SEASON … FOR SUMMER PRODUCE!

What’s your favorite part about summer in Oceanside? Is it our beautiful beaches? Warmer weather? How about all of the delicious fruit and veggies that are now in season in our community, and possibly even grown in your own backyard? If seasonal produce is your thing, then you’re in luck!

During the summer months, fruit such as peaches, avocados, citrus, and vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, corn and peppers, all come into season! Continue reading to learn how to keep your garden going strong, how to donate excess produce, and how to access seasonal treats if your thumb is less than green.

Maintaining Your Backyard Bounty

Tending to your backyard fruit trees and vegetable gardens may seem daunting, but Green Oceanside has many resources to help you. By visiting the City’s Backyard Compost Program webpage you can learn how to turn your kitchen scraps into garden gold by following easy steps to make your own compost bin.

If you’re looking to save money AND water, but still want to maintain a beautiful backyard oasis, visit Green Oceanside’s webpage for information on indoor and outdoor rebates, and information on the City’s new WaterSmart Meter Program!

Shopping for Seasonal Produce

If you don’t have backyard produce, no need to worry. Oceanside has many local avenues for you and your family to get seasonal produce. Visit the Oceanside Farmer’s Market on Thursday mornings,

or, check out one of the many local farms here in Oceanside and purchase a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box! Reminder—shopping local not only reduces the amount of greenhouse gases going into our atmosphere from less cars and semis travelling on the roads, but also supports a healthy, local economy.

Got Extra Backyard Produce?

If you find yourself with too many delicious fruits or vegetables, check out one of the below recipes, or contact local non-profit ProduceGood to get your backyard produce picked and donated to feed those in need! Visit www.ProduceGood.org to learn more.

Zip Code Salad – Brought to you by O’side Kitchen Collaborative

Ingredients: Use any leftover veggies you have at home, such as the last half of that avocado in the fridge, the remaining handful of leafy greens sitting in the drawer, or even add the last bit of trail mix or chocolate you have in the cupboard.

Combination Ideas:

• Avocado, tomatoes, onion, black beans, cheddar cheese, jalapeños • Roasted beets, goat cheese, toasted walnuts, dried fruit, avocado • Beans, cooked grains (rice, quinoa, faro, barley), roasted carrot or brussels sprouts, feta cheese

Seasonal Fruit Cooler Beverage

Ingredients: Any leftover fruit you have on the counter or in the fridge! Over ripened, slightly bruised fruit has the best flavor.

Seasonal ideas include peaches, nectarines, mangos, strawberries, lemons, oranges, watermelon, and the list keeps going!

Steps:

• Pick out any fruit you have on hand and find your blender or food processor. • Blend up your fruit, then pour your blended fruit into ice cube trays. • Once your fruit is frozen, add to any sparkling water, seltzer, or lemonade for a refreshing summer cooler.

For more information on the City of Oceanside’s Environmental Programs, current events, and zero waste recipes, please visit www.GreenOceanside.org Water Conservation Webpage QR Code

Backyard Compost Webpage QR Code