July is National Grilling Month, a time to fire up the grill and savor the delicious flavors of summer. At Carson Valley Meats, we believe that grilling is more than just a way to cook; it’s a way to bring people together and celebrate community. As we celebrate this special month, we’re also committed to supporting community food production and ensuring that local agriculture thrives for generations to come.
The Joy of Grilling
Grilling is a beloved summer tradition that offers a unique way to enjoy fresh, flavorful meats and produce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a family picnic, or a simple weeknight dinner, grilling adds a smoky, savory dimension to your meals. From juicy steaks and succulent sausages to tender chicken and flavorful vegetables, the possibilities are endless.
Why Local Matters
Supporting local food production is at the heart of what we do at Carson Valley Meats. We raise our meats locally and work with other local producers who share our commitment to quality and sustainability. By choosing local, you can be assured that our products are fresh, flavorful, and produced with care. Additionally, supporting local agriculture helps sustain our community, preserves our way of life, and reduces our carbon footprint.
How Carson Valley Meats Supports Community Food Production
- Partnering with Local Farmers:
- We collaborate with local farmers and producers to bring you a variety of high-quality products. Our online farmers market offers not just meats, but also local honeys, jams, roasted coffee, breads, charcuterie, olives, sauces, herb and spice mixes, and more.
- Ranch Box Monthly Deliveries:
- Our Ranch Box delivery service delivers a selection of our finest each month. This service not only provides convenience but also supports local producers by creating a steady demand for their products. No minimum orders, boxed products or subscriptions required! Just order what you want, when you want it.
- Educational Initiatives:
- We are passionate about educating our community on the importance of local food production. Through farm events, blog posts and social media, we share insights into sustainable farming practices, the benefits of local food, and the hard work that goes into producing high-quality meats.
- Community Events:
- We host our annual Ag & Artisan Holiday Faire on the first Saturday of December to celebrate our agricultural roots. We love bringing people together to enjoy holiday shopping from local crafters and artisans, learning about the importance of supporting local agriculture through animal demonstrations and exhibits and visiting with area ag education providers.
- Restoring the Storke Dairy:
- Our efforts to restore the historic Storke Dairy are aimed at preserving a vital piece of our agricultural heritage. By revitalizing this landmark, we aim to create a hub for community engagement, education, and celebration of our local food system. Be sure to check out our antique farm implement display at the Ag & Artisan Holiday Faire – each of these items were found on the property as we repair and refresh it.
Grilling Tips and Recipes for National Grilling Month
To celebrate National Grilling Month, here are some tips and recipes to make your grilling experience even better:
- Grilling Tips:
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding any food. This helps to sear the meat and lock in flavors.
- Keep It Clean: Clean your grill grates before and after use to prevent sticking and maintain hygiene.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure your meat is cooked perfectly.
- Let It Rest: Allow grilled meats to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Grilling Recipes:
Grilled Ribeye Steaks:
- Ingredients: Ribeye steaks from Carson Valley Meats, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder.
- Instructions: Rub steaks with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let rest before serving.
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks:
- Ingredients: Chicken drumsticks from Carson Valley Meats, BBQ sauce, olive oil, salt, pepper.
- Instructions: Brush drumsticks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, turning frequently. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Grilled Veggie Skewers:
- Ingredients: Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning.
- Instructions: Thread vegetables onto skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Grill over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Join Us in Celebrating National Grilling Month
This National Grilling Month, we invite you to fire up your grill and enjoy the rich flavors of Carson Valley Meats. By choosing our locally sourced meats, you’re not only treating yourself to the best quality but also supporting community food production. Let’s celebrate together and make this summer unforgettable.
Happy Grilling!