Today marked the first day of the Elmhurst Farmer’s Market which runs every Wednesday from 7am-1pm through October 26th in the parking lot on the Northeast corner of York and Vallette.
The colors of the bountiful vegetables, herbs and flowers were illuminated under a clear blue sky and abundant sunshine.
My top pick today has to be the gallon tubs of fresh herbs at $3 each or two for $5. The basil was magnificent and achieved practically bush like status. You can’t even get cut basil in a small container for that price.
For dynamite pesto, rip off a couple of cups of the basil and put it in the food processor with several glugs of olive oil, a couple of handfuls of grated parmesan cheese, a palm full of pine nuts (or walnuts), clove of garlic and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Season to taste and spread on italian toast, cut into corners and serve as an elegant appetizer that will blow your guests away. You can toss fresh pesto into pasta, onto grilled chicken or spoon onto freshly boiled new potatoes which are also available at the farmer’s market.
We will be doing another story on the Elmhurst Farmer’s Market later in the season including video interviews on what makes local farming so special.
Until then, waltz over first thing next Wednesday morning with a reusable bag and sample a loaf of crusty bread, some gourmet olives and a few of the gorgeous seasonal colors on display in the vegetables and fruits from our local farmers.
Kids love wandering around with the warm summer sun on their shoulders and there are plenty of free food samples for them.
The Elmhurst Farmer’s Market is a great way to start off your Wednesday. The colors will lift you through the rest of your week.
Keep up this good tradition because I hope to partake some day.