Tuesday, July 27, 2010

When was the last time you visited a farmer's market?

As the warm weather enters the valley the farmers set-up their produce stands.

As a child/teenager, it was a delightful early morning trip to the farmer's market. Yes- it was hard to get up about 7:00 in the morning but it was totally worth it. We always had fresh produce. I continue on with this tradition of going to the farmer's market but it's not so early in the morning more like mid-day. Down the street from my work are two farmer's markets which are bustling with lunch time visitors.

A few things to keep in mind when visiting the farmer's market:

- Bring your own reusable bag to carry all your purchases.
- A pocket for a quick grab of cash or change.
- Walk around the market to mental notes of the prices. One table might have a better deal than another.
- Put yourself on a budget.

For $5 - this is what I bought:

- Rainbow chard - $1
- cilantro bunch - $ 1
- 4 large tomatoes - $1
- 1 basket of cherry tomatoes - $2

These ingredients will transform into various components of a meal.

Rainbow Chard a great green leafy vegetable to enjoy which replaces spinach. I saute it with a little bit of garlic and soy sauce.

With the tomatoes and cilantro, I will make a fresh salsa to enjoy with some homemade corn chips.

Lastly, the cherry tomatoes will be made into a chutney to top my mini muffin turkey meatloaf.

A few things purchased at the farmer's market can increase your vegetable (or fruit) intake- plus you've supported local farmers.

http://www.california-grown.com/

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