Farmer’s Market Bonanza…

As I have mentioned in earlier posts, I’m a fan of farmer’s markets.  We can learn a lot by talking to the people who grow our food.  I frequent several markets in the Little Rock area, including the Saturday morning markets in Hillcrest, North Little Rock, and Downtown Little Rock.  I also enjoy the Sunday morning market at Bernice Gardens and the Tuesday evening market in the Heights.

Occasionally, my exploits in this area are particularly zealous.  When Wife-of-Boar happened upon me with the bounty pictured above piled high on the kitchen table, she exclaimed “what are you going to do with all of that stuff?”

Interestingly, several of the farmers asked that same question.

Well, here’s the answer:

Gazpacho Featuring Fresh Heirloom Tomatoes and Goat Cheese Paired with a Pumpernickel Crouton

This chilled Spanish soup makes marvelous use of summer produce (tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and garlic) and is a refreshing starter course to a summer feast.

Mexican Style Cream Corn

What to do with all of that fabulous fresh corn?  In this creation we let it dance with cream cheese and Mexican spices…

Balsamic-Glazed Grilled Zucchini

Nothing brings out the taste of zucchini like a little char –and the balsamic marinade gives it a tangy note to keep us reaching for more.

Stewed Potatoes

Often confused with potato soup, this creation is a Southern classic –just soft buttery potatoes stewed in a cream gravy.

Fresh Peach Crumble

Fresh peaches are one of the sweet highlights of summer, and they dazzle in this simple creation.

In upcoming posts, we will chop, stir, and sauté our way through each of these creations.  We may even hit a few more markets.

In the meantime, get to know a farmer –or two, my friend.