About six weeks ago, a spinach plant began to grow in one of our raised beds. We decided to purchase some spinach seeds and intentionally grow more spinach. Unfortunately, the volunteer spinach plant has now bolted. When a plant bolts, it begins to flower and go to seed. The leaves taste bitter and aren't good to harvest.
Typical Indiana weather has contributed to this. It has been nice and warm lately, but for the last week it has rained a lot. We have decided to not sow more seeds until the ground dries out. Planting seeds now could result in seeds rotting. If the seed does manage to sprout and grow, the soil could become waterlogged or compacted harming the roots.
Yesterday, in the rain, my boys and I harvested spinach. Afterwards, we used the spinach in a whole wheat pita pocket. Our boys were super excited to make their own dinner. It is important to have children help with planting and harvesting, but the last piece of the process is making a meal. Below, I have included the recipe from last night. There aren't any specific measurements (just ingredients) because we wanted our boys to put as much or as little of each ingredient into the pita pocket.
Veggie Stuffed Pita Pocket
Whole wheat pita pocket
Medium-sized sautéed portabella mushroom seasoned with garlic powder, black pepper, sea salt and summer savory.
Spinach leaves
Diced red onions
Italian shredded cheese blend
Balsamic dressing
Our boys liked it so much that they requested I put a veggie pita pocket in their lunch boxes. I said, "The mushrooms will be cold." (I don't like cold mushrooms). They said, in unison, "We don't care."
It rained most of last night and it is raining again today. Although the forecast says otherwises..hopefully, the rain lets up soon.