While the first lady runs the talk show gantlet to promote her healthy lifestyle agenda, the garden she planted on the South Lawn of the White House is producing the ingredients for seasonal meals served to the first family and its guests.

AP profiles White House chef Cristeta Comerford, who says she was so inspired by the project she planted her own garden at home.

Rather than import ingredients from faraway places, a process that requires special security protocols, Comerford plans meals based on what’s growing on the lawn. — PZS

AP via Google:

The White House’s new focus on gardening and seasonal cooking has been especially pronounced during the last couple of winters, when most people go to the grocery store and choose from imported vegetables from warmer climates.

The South Lawn garden has hoop houses — open, plastic, dome-like structures — that capture the sun and act like greenhouses during the colder months. Comerford said her staff is able to serve “good hearty spinaches,” collard greens, kale and other vegetables fresh during the winter.

The availability of so many seasonal vegetables out back has shifted the focus of many White House meals.

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