scenes of the weekend | sauvie island

This weekend Mike and I ventured out to Sauvie Island, the largest river island in the United States. It is surrounded by the Columbia and Willamette Rivers and is a quick trip from the city of Portland (only took us about twenty minutes to get there). We lucked out with a gorgeous day that was perfect for visiting Sauvie Island Farm, a three-generation family owned and operated farm that allows visitors to come and pick the fresh fruits and vegetables grown there.

The grounds were absolutely beautiful (Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Hood were clearly visible in the distance), and we were content to wander around picking some of the most delicious blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries that I have ever tasted. I also clipped spinach leaves, fresh herbs, zucchini, and put together my own flower assortment from the garden. It was the perfect weekend summer activity.

We set out to make dinner using mainly all the ingredients that we had picked up at the farm. It turned out to be a really tasty and satisfying meal of heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, and olive oil as an appetizer. We put together a simple summer salad of the spinach, strawberries, feta, and balsamic vinaigrette. The raspberries were perfect crushed up to get their juice, and then added to one part vodka, two parts club soda over ice to make the perfect summer cocktail. Having gotten everything right from the source, there was a heightened element of pride and appreciation for everything we ate. A bit of a 'Farm to Table' success.