Lent is upon us. For many in south Louisiana that means some sort of fast. Traditionally, one tasty way of coping with the abstinence of Lent is Gumbo Z’Herbes or Green Gumbo. Often, meat is omitted from this lovely soup, but, if you feel like cheating a smidge, then add some smoked sausage or tasso (as we do below) to round it out. Gumbo Z’Herbes is just fine without any meat in part because it uses the wealth of ingredients produced in our winter gardens. This is the time of year for mustard and turnip greens, collards and spinach. So, whatever your method for surviving the 40 repast, look to prime seasonal ingredients for a great meal. All of these greens came from the Saturday, Red Stick Farmer’s Market and should be available for several more weeks. The Tasso came from Ronnie’s Boudin and Cracklin House on Florida Boulevard. Eat local. Click here for the recipe over at Country Roads Magazine.