I know, I know – I’ve waxed poetic about spring’s arrival in practically every blog post so far this, um, spring. But we had a WINTER, y’all – a winter filled with snow and ice and sleet and bone-chilling wind and brisk mornings that made my ears burn while on my morning run. So I hope you will forgive me for celebrating the change of season a little more than I usually do!
Now that the asparagus and my
beloved ramps are back on sale in Market Square each Saturday, I know the
new farmer’s market season has begun.
Spring greens, fresh honey, even a few strawberries grown in greenhouses
all around the region – some of my favorite fruits and veggies in the world are
available right now, ripe for the picking and ready to be used in the week’s
meals.
I love returning to the market after a winter away. Every autumn, I swear that I’m going to
attend faithfully throughout the holidays, but I confess I never do. I may pop in once or twice during the winter
months, but I never seem to keep up with the market the way I can during the
other three seasons of the year.
Somehow, coming back in April and May, seeing the market teeming with
vendors and customers alike, makes my pulse quicken a little, gives me a little
burst of energy. There’s something about
watching the community come together as they have for the last 200-or-so years
that is just an incredible sight to behold, and I’m so pleased to take part in
the ritual.
This time of year, I buy as many rail-thin asparagus stalks
as I can, using them any old place – to roast, on the grill, in a sauté pan,
boiled, cooked with pasta, and so on.
The same goes for the aforementioned ramps – they’re incredibly easy to
use in place of (or in tandem with) onions or garlic in nearly any recipe you
can think of. (I also love a good old
ramp biscuit!)
If you’ve got a nearby farmer’s market, now is the time to
get out there to scope out what’s in season!
Do you have a favorite market or spring veggie? Tell me in the comments!
:)
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