The Markets are Open.

Summer is by far my favorite time of year…the warm sun, the afternoons in my gardens, and the endless amount of food. Yes the food, that’s the best part. It also brings the start of the local farmers markets. To me it’s like seeing a good friend after a very long time. Now you might think its strange that I visit the farmers markets when I have a great big garden of my own.  The market is where I get my best ideas, where I find new veggies to try and to reinvent recipes of my favorites.

 Right now the markets are full of all the early produce like leafy greens, asparagus and radishes. Did you know that in Europe they don’t eat radishes raw? Shocker…they roast them! They’re delicious they taste a bit like a turnip, and according to the USDA National Nutrient Database, the radish is rich in various nutrients which include potassium, calcium, sodium, and vitamin C. It also contains vitamins including B-vitamins (thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, foliate, and vitamin B6), vitamin A and vitamin K. It also has iron magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.

 This week during my weekly food prep I roasted a pan full of radishes and incorporated them into my lunch salads. Its as simple as washing and cutting them, tossing them in olive oil and adding your favorite herbs. I roast mine for about 30-40 minutes at 350. 

 So this week, visit your local farmers market, and purchase something you have never tried. Get to know the farmers, ask them what their favorite produce is, ask them how they would cook it and if your concerned about pesticides ask them what they use. Hey who knows you just might make a new friend.