One of my favorite things about living in Raleigh is having easy access to the State Farmer's Market. Lots of communities have local markets, but the one here is big and open seven days a week. You can find all sorts of things there, from flowers to fruit to framing to flags, and everything inbetween (whatever that might be).I like to go on Sunday mornings after church -- it's not too crowded yet, although not all the vendors are open then either. If you've got time to spend, you can shop for veggies, wander through the crafts and then eat at one of the restaurants (our favorite is the seafood market -- get the shrimp sandwich and a side of fries).
The Farmer's Market is great year-round (and not just for pumpkins and Christmas trees), but here are five of my favorite foods you can get now (or at least soon):
- Strawberries -- Go ahead and buy the big basket. Eat some now (yogurt and granola, anyone?) and freeze some for later (perfect in smoothies).
- Peach salsa -- They also sell pineapple salsa and other tasty flavors, but the peach is the best and it's not too spicy.
- Sweet potatoes -- The state vegetable (what? you didn't know?) is so much better here than in stores. Wonderful flavor and beautiful orange color.
- Collards -- Good for you and taste good, too. Just don't boil them into oblivion. Slice them into strips with a little salt, water and olive oil, and cook until they're not crunchy but not soggy either (about 20 minutes).
- Peaches -- Not in yet, but they are oh-so-yummy. Ask for samples, but be sure to bring the wipes with you. You and your kids will be sticky.
Have you ever made collard cole slaw? Yum! You make it the same as you would a vinegar based regular slaw, but instead of cabbage you use collards cut in thin strips. I am not at all a fan of cooked collards, but I can eat a truckload of collard slaw. I have an more detailed recipe if you are interested.
ReplyDeleteAmy
I got a pang of homesickness for Raleigh when I read this. I wanna go! *sniff, sniff* There isn't a market close to me, but I'm lucky because my across the street neighbors have a huge garden that they are happy to share with me. Tomatoes, squash, lettuce, spinach, peas, corn, sweet potatoes, etc. I'm very lucky and it makes for a great summer/early fall. Now I want to try some peach salsa - yum!
ReplyDeleteOh, I love strawberries too! Have you taken the kids to pick them? That's so fun too! Our Farmer's Market here in Lexington has become the best place to be on a Saturday morning!
ReplyDeleteJust a reminder to "LOOK"* the collards before you wash them in 3 waters and cook them. I cook mine in the pressure cooker for 10 minutes and it eliminates the need for air freshener in the cuchina.\
ReplyDelete* look means to check for bugs,spots,dirt etc