"harvesting" news and stories

Herbs. Photo: Shawn Allen, Flickr

• A whole slew of herb-themed recipes to utilize any tasty greenery kicking around.
  
• Minneapolis' Nokomis neighborhood now has two new shops to feed local wine addictions -- Ken & Norm's and the Cork Dork.
• The Country Lane farm stand boasts delicious, freshly picked berries.
• Wondering exactly how to harvest your home crops? The Star Tribune offers some tips.
• On birds, boys, brews and backyard barbecues.
  
• Advice on how to cook up the freshwater fish brought home after a long day on the water.
• Taylors Falls' The Drive In boasts old-school nostalgia in both atmosphere and menu, while Kramarczuk's offers a cheap brat combo.
• Wine pick of the week: France's crisp, cheap Picpoul de Pinet.
• News Bites: New Zealand's olive oil, Calphalon pans, Iowa's Premier Wine & Food Expo and a benefit for St. Jude's.
  
• Recipes: Grilled Tuna with Parsley-Parmesan Vinaigrette and a slew of sweet corn dishes.
  

The New York Times recently featured a story about the tastings and tours offered by several California olive farms. Located mostly around Napa, many of these olive-growing, olive-oil-producing farms allow visitors to check out their facilities and sample what they produce. The article also gives some insight into the blend of old and new technology involved in harvesting olives and creating a variety of nuanced oils. There's also talk of the proper way to taste olive oil, which, if done correctly involves lots of slurping and coughing.

[Photo: Peter DaSilva/NYT]