farmersmarket365

The end of July is upon us and at this point there should be a huge variety of veggies to choose from.  Egg plant, onions, cabbages, broccoli, summer squash, corn and of course those warm red orbs called tomahtos by some of my friends; I know them best as tomatoes.  In addition, this is the time that I want to look for products made with the veggies: pesto, sauces and relishes to name a few.  Made when everything is at the height of the season makes it oh so yummy.

So Thursday is usually my planning day for meals and it is the time I take stock of just what I still have.  I am forever buying more than we can eat.  I then make a decision to either cook up the surplus for the freezer or use it next week.  For example, I still have onions left from last week I might keep a few, but the others I most likely caramelized and freeze for soup or use in another recipe.  With tomatoes being out I just might make up some caramelized onion and tomato jam.  Here is the recipe for the jam.. http://www.cookingchanneltv.com/recipes/kelsey-nixon/ratatouille-tart-with-caramelized-onion-tomato-jam-recipe/index.html 

In the past lettuce at this time of year was not common because it is a cold weather plant; some of my lettuce comes out bitter when picked too late.   With more High and Low tunnels (green house like structures but the plants are sown into the ground) I am seeing more of it so I know it is available. But honestly I am a bit tired of lettuce and would rather serve a salad of cucumbers and tomatoes tossed with balsamic vinaigrette and olive oil- with perhaps some basil or feta thrown in. 

After taking stock of what I have and what we are doing next week, my shopping list will look something like this:  tomatoes, cucumber, corn, peaches, cider, summer squash, egg plant,  salsa, peanut butter, coffee, arugula (hydroponic it is wonderful),  bratwurst, eggs and bread.  I might also get some fish if there is something I like.  Sometimes I’ll visit the market web site to be sure I can get what I want but I don’t mind surprises

Take away for today:

Use up what you have

Lettuce is good but there is so much better at this time of year

Make a list but be ready to substitute.- If you’re not sure what would be good, don’t hesitate to ask, even the person next to you