farmers' markets

The distinctive fragrance of fresh cilantro fills the air around Valdivia, Vang’s, Maciel, and Gilbert Quintos’ farm stands at the Little Italy Mercato.  You’ve probably used cilantro in salsa made with tomatoes from JR Organics or in guacamole with avocado and limes from Heritage or Paradise Valley Ranch, but it’s also delicious in summer fruit salsas; try it with nectarines from Lone Oak, cantaloupe from Kawano or pluots from Smit Orchards. You’ll want to grab a big bunch if you’re making ceviche from Poppa’s Fresh Fish.

Cilantro is native to Europe and was popular in medieval cooking, but fell out of fashion there  in the 1600’s. It’s now most closely associated with Asian and Latin American cuisine, but it was once key in Italian cooking, and cilantro pesto actually predates the basil version that we know today. Pick up some chandler walnuts from Terra Bella Ranch and parmesan-reggiano from Taste cheese and try it out for yourself, tucked into quesadillas or tossed with Assenti's pasta.

REFRESHER COURSE

Agua Frescas are a great way to capture the sweet flavors of the season in a pitcher.  Simply puree your farm-fresh fruit (or other fresh produce) with a little water, a squeeze of lime and maybe a dash of sugar in a blender and strain.  A 4:1 ratio of water to fruit works well, but adjusting for your taste is easy. Adding fresh herbs will kick things up even more.

At the Adams Avenue Farmer’s Market, start by choosing Kawano Farms Strawberries and a little basil from Suzie’s Farm.  Guavas from Rancho Mexico Lindo with a little extra lime  from Paradise Valley Ranch will make a sweet-tart mixture that's sure to refresh.

Over at the North Park Farmer’s Market, JR Organics has what you need for the classic cucumber lime rendition or a sweeter strawberry mint batch.  Or squeeze the juice from R&L Farms oranges into the blender with a few sprigs of Suzie’s Farm cilantro for an interesting twist. Serving these in a glass rimmed with ginger infused sea salts from Salt Farm  and a wedge of your favorite citrus will dress your frescas to impress!