Fresh Produce Takes Root in Your Garden

By Lisa Mechem

Spring is my favorite time of year. Fresh produce begins, trees are budding and daffodils are blooming.

My family and I prefer to “eat fresh produce” as much as possible. Bending to weed a garden has gotten to be a bit much, so now I grow tomatoes in pots on the deck or porch and herbs in the window. Soon, I will plan my commute home to take advantage of the produce stands from local growers along my route.

We found the Community Co-Op based here in Salt Lake City a few years ago. They try to have at least 80 percent of their products and fresh produce comes from local sources. It gives us a source for fresh foods year-round and also helps support Crossroads Urban Center and Food Pantry, so it helps others too.

As the weather warms up, I like to prepare dinners that are quick, appetizing and vegetarian. One of my favorites is a garden salad with drained, canned kidney or black beans. I use salsa for the dressing (preferably home-made). A slice of melon or other fresh fruit to finish makes a fantastic dessert.

This is the perfect time of year to plant your garden, visit your Farmer’s Market, select foods from local farms, and make healthy dinners using fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s good for your health and helps the environment too!

I’ve been a compliance inspector in the X-Ray program of the Division of Radiation Control for about 2 ½ years. My background is in veterinary medicine and I had my own practice for many years. I enjoy most of the local pastimes, including sand-dunning, fishing, sewing, baking, and RV camping (tents went the way of weeding gardens).