More good stuff in Week 8 including-

Sweet corn, cucumbers, white onions, red potatoes, eggplant, bell peppers, red slicer tomatoes, mixed heirloom tomatoes and cauliflower.

You already saw how I used the eggplant and heirloom tomatoes.  I also stumbled upon another great combo for sandwiches. It was something I never would have thought of but gave it a try. I had some leftover grilled eggplant, some avocadoes that I bought on sale, and some leftover feta cheese crumbles. I made a sandwich by using mashed avocado instead of mayo, putting the eggplant slices on the top and then topping that with the cheese. I have to say it was a great combination and one I’ll be trying again.

The potatoes and cauliflower we ate as side dishes. I have some cauliflower leftover and I’m thinking about turning it into a cheese and cauliflower soup and putting it in the freezer for the fall.

The onions I used to make chutney.

The cucumbers I’ve used for salads. This week’s CSA box had more of them so now I’m thinking about making a cold cucumber soup for weekend dining.

I have to say that receiving these CSA boxes has made me think more about fresh produce and how it can be used for making low cost meals. It’s also got me thinking about how we can beat the heat. Luckily all these vegetables taste so wonderful, very little, if any cooking is required.

I’ve also been focusing on preseving food more than ever this year. You’ve probably heard that food prices are expected to rise again in the fall and also in 2013. If you can extend your budget and buy extra now and preserve it or turn it into future meals, you’ll save in the long run. One thing I’ve been doing is buying extra fruit at the store. Last week I bought some raspberries and made raspberry jam. It was a hot week and I was short on time so for the very first time I tried making jam in the microwave. You still have to can it but it does save time and you don’t have to stand over a hot stove. One tip, make sure you have a big enough dish as it really boils and rises when it’s cooking.

Another way I’ve thought about saving money is to make things I’ll use during the holidays.  For simple entertaining, I love cheese platters with chutneys and spreads. If you’ve ever checked them out you’ll know they can be expensive. Last weekend I used some of the tomatoes, the onions, and some of the dried tomatoes I’d dehydrated earlier this year and made my own chutney. These are also perfect for serving on top of fish and grilled chicken and they give any meal a gourmet taste.