As we get closer to Summer, I see new produce at the market every week. Yesterday, for the first time this season, there was broccoli, asparagus, Napa cabbage, and one of my favorite vegetables— Kohlrabi. I think it’s safe to say that most American’s have never even heard of it. It’s not standard eats, but it should be.
I wish I liked radishes. Actually, let me rephrase — I wish I liked to eat radishes. Other than the taste, I do like radishes. (I really haven’t met a vegetable I dislike. Let’s just say I like some better than others.) As I write this post, I’m realizing that I have a strong ambivalence towards radishes. In all their beautiful, multicolored glory, they represent Spring and the beginning of the farmer’s market season, which I love. Each May, without fail, they greet us as sentries standing guard at every farmer’s booth. And they really are beautiful— brightly-colored crimson, soft ivory, and magnificent purple globes nesting in their own haven of densely-colored, green leaves. I am always attracted to them. They look so seductive. They are almost irresistible. Almost.
I love farmer’s markets. We’re very fortunate here in Colorado to have access to some great markets. I happen to live in Boulder County and think the Boulder Farmer’s Market is pretty special. I also love the Longmont Farmer’s Market— a bit smaller and usually less crowded. There are farmer’s markets all over the country— and they’re usually not too hard to find. Local Harvest is a good place to start if you’re trying to find a market in your area.
Yesterday was a great day at the market. We’ve been having cooler weather and it was bit overcast— a perfect time to go to the market since cloudy days usually mean less people. Despite our wet, cool Spring, there was much to choose form at the market. Here are some of the beautiful things I found: