I can’t explain it, but somehow, even with this extra 5th weekend extension, we’ve reached the end of July. I should have realized it last week when the produce stands exploded in the first of the season watermelons, crates of corn, and peaches that needed our immediate attention. And was I lyin’ about the honeydews at GreenHorn Gardens? Smooth as a baby’s bottom and even sweeter.
July is the gift that keeps on giving…nectarines and don’t blink or you’ll miss ‘em blackberries. If you can make it home without eating them all out of hand, they do translate into spectacular pies. So save some for later.
And it isn’t just the fruit explosion. When Mom said, “Eat your vegetables!” it was for moments like this. Green beans, corn on the cob, tomatoes (OK…that’s actually a fruit) and summer squash. But it doesn’t have to taste like Mom’s. The LFM has some venders that are putting a new spin on flavor, and on how to enjoy your veggies minus one main ingredient: labor! Try one of Takay Catering’s light and fresh dressings on your next batch of coleslaw…or for the biggest nutritional bang, just dip in with those crunchy crudités and “a votre sante!” Trust me, no one will care that it’s healthy.
Back to the tomatoes…did you know that a big ripe tomato can be reduced to a simple and simply elegant sauce simply (triple points) by rubbing it on the largest side of a box grater? It’s true. In no time at all you’ll have nothing left in your hand but the skin, and a container full of nothin’ but the ‘mater puree. Add a pinch of your preferred seasonings, maybe a little pesto…and PRESTO! You’ll think of something to do with it.
Raise your hand if you’ve sliced and sizzled up a couple of those big boys and served them with milk gravy…a couple of ears of sweet corn and…dinner! See me if you need instructions. This is my husband’s favorite summer dish, memories of his mom’s kitchen.
And August only ups the ante! Rounding out the color palette will be sunshine yellow pears and deep maroon plums. So make room in your basket. Don’t forget some goat cheese for those pears…the perfect, uh, pair.
Don’t forget, the Artist Tent has sprung up from the ashes of last summer. Stop and see who’s being creative with what.
For the up-to-the minute skinny on the vendor schedule, please visit the LFM FB page.
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Goodbye July…Comment stolen from FB: The last week of July is like the Sunday night of summer vacation.
But don’t you believe it! Enjoy all the good stuff still ahead in August…there’s still lots of rosebuds to be gathered. And, hey! The LFM is here until Halloween!
Good food, good times and good people are the best simple pleasures.
Terry Baraldi