Put epicures in direct contact with their food source: Give them a stake in a local farm.
More than 1,600 community-supported agriculture farms sell seasonal shares, and members get a weekly supply of just-picked produce.
Generally the quality is superior to that of supermarkets, "and you get more value," says Anna Lappe, co-author of "Grub: Ideas for an Urban Organic Kitchen." (Find one at localharvest.org/csa.)
Note: Since veggies are delivered to a drop-off spot, be sure it's convenient for the recipient.
