Two weeks ago, I spotted a couple of farmers at the market with a sparse table scattered with several quarts of storage apples and a few pints of blueberries. Eager for the first blueberries of the season, I asked how much they were. To which the lady replied, “What blueberries?” And that was funny, because they were right there. I indicated the blueberries and politely said, “These,” and she said “Oh, those blueberries. They’re $5.” Sold. We got them home and they turned out to be the best blueberries anyone on earth has ever had. Since then, I’ve been stalking her farm stand and have only found the storage apples, but I’m not giving up.
That distracted blueberry lady is on to something. She could have the best blueberries ever and then forget she was even selling them because even the best-ever blueberries aren’t what matters. What seemed to matter to her was being at the market and watching the people. Inspired by our recent move and all my long walks, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about what really matters to me.
I had an epiphany of sorts the other day that started with a twinge of internet jealousy. Do you ever get that? I like to pretend I’m immune to it and say to myself “She’s on her path and I’m on mine,” or “I don’t even want a cookbook,” or “Brooklyn Supper is a niche blog,” but it’s difficult for me to really reflect on it more deeply than that because usually in a contemplative moment, I’m interrupted by a child. I have two, so it happens a lot. But the other day I realized––these two little people, Brian, even myself becoming a better person, these are the things that matter. So internet, consider yourself warned. We’re on the outs, you and me.
To celebrate, I’m out wandering more, reading books again, and playing with my daughters for hours. I can do all that, because I’m just not that into the internet anymore. Not you though. You I love, and I’m ever so grateful for every single eyeball that lands on this blog. That part of the internet is totally cool. But like that blueberry lady, I’m going to stop worrying about whether or not I’m the best and focus instead on the moment and I’m in and treasuring it. In her honor, I’m sharing this mizuna and blueberry salad. You should try it, it’s the best.
Sautéed Mizuna with Herbed Feta, Caramelized Onions, and Blueberries
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 large red onion, cut into round, 1/4 inch thick slices
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, divided
1 large bunch mizuna, stems trimmed
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1/2 cup good feta cheese
1/4 cup mixed herbs, minced (I used lemon thyme, rosemary, chives, and marjoram)
1 cup blueberries
Start by caramelizing the onions. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy bottomed skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onions, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, turn to coat with oil, and turn heat to low. Cook, stirring often, over low heat for an hour, or until onions are lightly browned and sweet.
Remove the onions from the pan, turn heat to medium high, and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the mizuna, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, and the rice wine vinegar. Sauté for 5 – 7 minutes, or until the mizuna has wilted a bit.
Meanwhile, combine the minced herbs and feta in a small bowl.
Layer the mizuna and onions with the feta, and top with blueberries.
I think your niche is gorgeous salads. Every time I pop over here, I wish I had brought a fork.
This is lovely, you know that? Here’s to getting out more with the kids, and discovering things about ourselves. And here’s to blueberries – because I am SO ready for summer fruit up here.
Thank you for you kind words Aimee. And I’ll send some warm weather and good fruit vibes up your way. Full-on blueberry season cannot get here fast enough.
I get it! I get everything you say here! Here’s to reading more books & wandering.
What a beautiful plate of food!
Thanks so much Aggie!
Here’s to spending time with family. And reading – REALLY readin. Not skimming. And books rather than online content.
It goes by quickly…
Sandra, glad to see you in this comment thread. For a while I had a line on the post about not getting off my bus and I thought if you. And yes, real, actual reading is on deck for me this summer. Cheers!
I totally agree..more reading and that’s what I have started from today seriously! Reading my favorite Rebecca!
Hi Ami, Glad to hear it!
I love your perspective here and that beautiful salad! Staying true to yourself will always be the right decision 🙂
Thanks for sharing those wise words Nicole, they mean a lot.
Yes to reading and playing. I’m working on those priorities too. This salad looks awesome. xo
Thanks Melanie! Your investigation of work/life issues is always such an inspiration to me.
When I catch myself getting a little judge-y of the internet vibes, I know it’s time to stop poking around online and start losing myself in the physical world that’s right here. I’m kind of wishy washy/distracted most of the time, so it’s always surprising how laser beam-level my focus is when it comes to seeing what other peeps are doing in internet land. Such a waste of time for the most part too. That distance usually brings a little more enjoyment when I eventually return to the computer screen too.
High fiving you for sharing this (because I’m sure there’s a billion peeps who feel the same way) and for making this supremely creative salad. So jealous of those blueberries. xo
Thanks so much Laura, I really love your comment. You are SO right. I need to work toward applying that, as you put it, laser focus, into positive things for me. My goal this summer is just shut this computer and live life. And always, sending blueberries vibes to everyone up north!