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From Our Markets
by Chef Leslie Stiles

Strawberries seductive perfume beckons from the tables as you stroll by at the Walnut Creek Farmers' Market. Long, firm greenish purple stalks of asparagus beg to be grilled and doused with balsamic drizzle. Spring is rearing her gorgeous head and we Pavlovianly follow where led, which is to the farmers' market to partake in the bounty. Strawberries have championed the seasonal change and now grace morning cereal with chopped, toasted almonds. Lunches are utilizing reusable containers to present the ultimate pick me up break food of sliced strawberries and tangerines. Try tossing tender spring spinach with sliced strawberries, sliced spring onions, a sprinkle of balsamic vinaigrette and a generous grate of ricotta salata over all. Rhubarb teams up victoriously with strawberries for luscious, steaming from the oven crisp with a dollop of local honey sweetened mascarpone.

Asparagus season is cruising past the breathless, honeymoon stage and settling into a comfortable habit of asparagus at every meal, steamed, sauteed with mushrooms, grilled, stuffed into chicken with proscuitto, any way we like it, or better yet, every way we like it.

Spring greens are amazing in their subtle sweetness and tender leaves. No need for lavish adornment here, simple tosses with fruity olive oil, lemon juice and salt and pepper are the best base for any salad this time of year.

Are you witnessing the wild flower shows out there? The rain in February ramped up, pun intended, wild onion flowers, poppies, lupines, Indian paint brush, ferns, chamomile, and the list goes on. Hit the hills or your local creek and stroll, soaking in the beauty of the place we call home.

Lesley Stiles can be reached at chef@cccfm.org or on the market hotline 925 431-8361.
 
 
Green Garlic Sauteed with Mushrooms and Asparagus


3 stalks of green garlic, sliced thin
1 pound of asparagus, sliced thin
1/2 pound of cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Sea salt and ground pepper to taste

Heat a large skillet and add olive oil. Let heat for a few seconds and add the green garlic. Sautee for a minute or two and add the asparagus and mushrooms. Let cook until the asparagus is bright green and season with salt and pepper.
Serves 4 generously.


Honey, Balsamic and Rosemary Drizzle

2 cups red wine
2 cups balsamic vinegar
1 stalk rosemary
1 shallot, peeled and cut in half
3 tablespoons local honey

In a deep saucepan heat the wine, balsamic vinegar, rosemary and shallots until boiling. Simmer until reduced by 2/3. Strain the liquid and stir in honey. Will keep for months in reefer.

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