Fall harvest can bring a sweet sense of completion as farmers see the hard work of their year come full circle. While the weeks can be long, the nights pass quickly – especially when there’s rain in the forecast. Extra stress occurs when farmers are running hard on minimal sleep. We’re all trying to get as much done as possible each day, yet our priorities quickly change if a neighbor needs help.
The agricultural community comes together to help one another, which is why I hold the harvest season near to me. There are multiple stories each year of neighbors helping neighbors. Whether the main operator of an operation is struggling with sickness or loss of help, the uplifting stories of everyone pitching in to help one another out remind us all the reason of why we do what we do.
From lining up field help, coordinating rides, planning meals and fixing breakdowns, everyone in the community plays an irreplaceable role. Below are three recipes that can contribute to meal planning and harvest preparation. Not only are these recipes quick and easy to prepare, they can be easily transported to the field or to a neighbor’s house.
Pizza Hot Dish
1 lb. hamburger
1 small onion
1 can mushrooms
8 oz. pkg. egg noodles, cooked
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1 can cheddar cheese soup
Mozzarella cheese
Brown hamburger and onion, drain. Put into a casserole dish and add mushrooms, egg noodles, spaghetti sauce and soup. Stir well. Bake 45 minutes at 350 degrees. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and bake an additional 5-10 minutes.
Golden Parmesan Potatoes
6 large potatoes
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
3/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/3 cup butter
Parsley (optional)
Melt butter in a 9×13 pan while the oven is preheating to 375 degrees. Meanwhile wash potatoes and cut into pieces. Combine flour, cheese, salt and pepper in a plastic bag. Add potatoes and shake in bag to coat. Add potatoes to 9×13 pan. Bake a half hour, take out and stir and bake another half hour. Sprinkle with parley before serving.
Spaghetti Salad
1 lb. angel hair pasta
1 large tomato, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 onion, chopped
16 oz. bottle creamy Italian salad dressing
2 tsp. prepared mustard
1/2 cup sugar
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Cook spaghetti. Drain and cool. Mix dressing, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Combine with other ingredients. Marinate several hours or overnight before serving. May also add black olives and pepperoni.
The screenshots below are two examples from just this year of farmers helping farmers.
