Gift Ideas that Give Back

Facing your holiday to-do and shopping lists? Make gift-giving easier with inspired and original presents that can be found as close by as the co-op! Lakewinds employees and family members recommend some of their favorite gift ideas, with a focus on supporting women artisans, helping the environment, and strengthening local businesses. With presents that do … Continued

Original Local Food with Chef Austin Bartold

The Twin Cities food scene is vibrant and storied — a showcase of diverse traditions and food ways, as well as tasty local ingredients. Chef Austin Bartold brings his care for community and respect for the food system to every dish he creates. He highlights local ingredients at their peak season in a way that … Continued

Wild Ramps and How to Use Them

It’s springtime, which means the cold is retreating, the sun is staying out longer, and green is making its triumphant return to the landscape! One of the first wild plants to sprout in the Midwest also happens to be one of the most delicious: wild ramps. These oddly named veggies are highly sought after by … Continued

10 Easy Uses for Zucchini

Running out of ideas for how to use all that zucchini spilling from your garden or staring you down at the farmer’s market? Well, this is for you! Don’t resort to your same old recipes: Here are 10 easy uses for zucchini to try this season. 1. Roast them in wedges Zucchini can function as … Continued

10 Food Swaps to Switch It Up

When the new year hits, resolutions abound. But what if we all focused on making easy swaps or adding in, instead of taking away? Adding in more time to connect with others. Increasing our intentionality to take better care of ourselves. And weaving in routines or steps that support our well-being throughout the year, including … Continued

Creative Holiday Gift Ideas for the People on Your List

  Many of us are starting our holiday shopping early this year. With possible supply chain issues on the horizon, it’s good to think about your loved ones and what items might be on their wish lists. The good news is, the co-op can help! From puzzles to woolens and cookbooks to skin care, pick … Continued

Local Apples: Best Uses for Each Variety

  Apple season is sure to stir up sweet memories — visits to the orchard, crisp autumn evenings, and delicious apple dishes. It may also stir up some questions. With so many varieties, how do you tell which apple is best for snacking versus apple pie or cider? We break down local apples and the … Continued

Women Powered! – Maazah Chutney

  Yasameen & Sheilla Sajady Co-founders of Maazah Chutney in St. Paul    Sisters Yasameen and Sheilla started making chutney a few years ago. “We come from a family of small business owners,” says Yasameen. “I guess it’s in our DNA and our obsession with condiments. We love exploring new flavors and recipes, and we … Continued

Women Powered! Harmony Valley Farm

Andrea Yoder Co-Owner of Harmony Valley Farm in Viroqua, Wisconsin As she sees it, Andrea Yoder’s background as a dietician and chef is a natural complement to her life as a farmer. “I’m still a chef,” says Yoder. “My job now is to nourish people by growing organic food, but I also try to help … Continued