I was very excited to learn that a Winter Farmer’s Market was coming to nearby Somerville, starting this weekend. I am trying embrace winter this year rather than resist it, and markets like this one make that easier by offering a place for a community to gather and select fresh, local foods. After attending a talk about The Locavore Way, I realized that there are plenty of local produce options in the winter, and I just need to learn to be a little more creative. The book was in my Christmas stocking, and a full review is on it’s way, but of course Amy Cotler encourages markets such as these.
My friend Lee was excited for the market too, so we headed there together on opening day. (Thanks to Chad for the ride!) It was so much more crowded than I expected, which is good for a market. But the crowds also make me a little more self conscious with my camera, so we snuck up to the second level to capture a few photos.
I was really pleased with the variety of vendors at this market. There was fresh produce of course, but also bread and baked goods, grass-fed meat, fish, and other items including wine. I hear that cheese will be featured in future weeks. My haul from the market included yellow and orange carrots, a watermelon radish, onions, apples, potatoes, and a head of cabbage. I also picked up a pork chop from Stillman’s Farm. Finally, we finished up with a taste of Sparkling Chardonnay hosted by Zoll Wine.
The fish vendor was so popular that they were sold out. But don’t worry, we’ll be back again soon. And thanks to Lee for helping me juggle my camera and bags. Let me know how you guys like those beets! We can always go back for more in a couple of weeks.
Recipes that Fit 
Wow! It sounds like you had such a fun-filled time. Food shopping always makes me happy. Although my farmers market is more "Whole Food's" type. Made your Roasted Carrots and Parsnips with Garlic Gold EVOO, and also "SK" White bean and chard soup/stew.(Can't wait to make them both again.) I have whole wheat dough on my list and I'm going to try your Spinach-Feta Pizza next. So many good foods, so little time.
LikeLike
One of my favorite things are fresh radishes,not the ones in the bags at the grocery store but the ones with the tops still on them at the produce stands. How big is the Watermelon Radish you bought? Please let us know how it was!
LikeLike
Had so much fun! I'm looking forward to going back and snagging some fresh fish! If the snow hits like they say its going to, we'll have the beets on Wednesday! And thanks for the shout out in the blog!
LikeLike