Spring Garden Inspiration: Fresh Herbs, Veggies & Recipes with Olokoi

I’ve been gardening for years—it’s in my roots. I was raised by parents who were avid gardeners, and they passed that love of growing things down to me. Every spring, I find my way back to the garden. It's not just about growing food, it's about getting grounded. When life gets busy (and it always does), stepping outside, putting my hands in the soil, and seeing something grow brings me back to center. It's peaceful. It's quiet. It’s my form of meditation.

This season, I’ve planted: tomatillos, Chinese long green beans, poblanos, Thai chilis, jalapeños, cilantro, basil, flat-leaf parsley, mint, perilla leaves, Persian cucumbers, three kinds of heirloom tomatoes, ginger, turmeric, and roselles.

I love growing food I can get creative with. I’ve got several Olokoi recipe ideas already bubbling: watermelon salads, roasted tomato salsas, grilled long beans with a drizzle of heat, and so many sauces in the works.

I get a lot of fulfillment out of sharing my harvest with friends and family. And tending to the plants that nourish the people I care about feels awesome. Lately, I’ve also been learning more about the benefits of what I’m growing. Ginger and turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory goodness, and roselles are amazing for supporting blood pressure and heart health. 

This space keeps me connected—to the earth, to the people I love, and to the food I make. I can’t wait to see what this season brings.