Updates from the Farm – June 13

The olives are growing! The olives are growing! The Chemlali are setting a large amount of fruit. These trees are originally from Tunisia and love the hot dry climate in Suisun Valley.

We anticipate the rest of the grove to be a light to moderate year, as last year was very heavy. This is not unusual for olives. The Suisun wind helps the trees grow stronger, and is important for olive pollination. Our new olive trees, Nocelara de Belice will be planted in the next few weeks. I am extremely excited to see this new variety grow and flourish. The mother trees are originally from the area of Castelvetrano in the province of Trapani, Sicily. These olives can be made into beautiful and delicious oil but are equally lovely when salt brined.

We are also planting our hazelnut trees! They have lived happily in boxes and are now producing nuts. Our goal is to make our own Nutella, hazelnuts and chocolates — perfect for night time snacking.

There’s never a shortage of new happenings on the farm. We are going to be inundated with zucchini, cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes. Save the date for our Tomato Festival on August 15-17. Until then, stop in for a bite to eat, a scoop of gelato, and keep an eye on our social media to see what we’re up to!

Here is a great recipe for a simple and delicious Spring bruschetta appetizer.

Cucumber Bruschetta

Three or four small slices of toasted bread for each person

Sprinkle with Frantoio Olive Oil

Place thin slices of ‘Salt and Pepper’ Cucumbers on the bruschetta

Add a little Salt and Pepper to taste

Top with a dollop of mascarpone or fresh cheese