Rhubarb & Strawberries

It’s that time of year to fall in love with rhubarb again, that great springtime tradition for some of us.  You may only have it in pies, bars and other desserts, but we can help you explore new ways of using it. Theresa Millang’s “Joy of Rhubarb” is a versatile cookbook of recipes for this spring delight and we have Kim Ode’s book “Rhubarb Renaissance.” Sometimes called “pie plant” for its use as a pie and cobbler filling, it also makes delicious preserves, dessert breads and cakes. My favorite dish includes warm cobbler topped with thick cream. Many people combine it with strawberries, which are a perfect dancing partner for rhubarb. Speaking of strawberries and how to use them, make plans to attend our free “Scrumptious Strawberries” program on Saturday, June 7 at 10am.  Master Gardener Phyllis Both will present a program that celebrates strawberries, with tips for growing them to using them in a variety of recipes.  Attendees are welcome to bring their own favorite strawberry recipes to share.  Phyllis will have a few strawberry treats to share.  This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts and by a grant from the Sauk County UW-Extension Arts & Culture Committee.