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!
:)