Farmers Market Pasta Bowl
This Farmers Market Pasta Bowl is a go-to for utilizing all those wonderful odds and ends from weekly market hauls.
The farmers market is one of my favorite places, my culinary playground! Each visit becomes a treasure hunt, sourcing the best and most vibrant peak season goodies from my favorite farmers - which you will remember well if you have been following me for a while and remember my weekly #bestofthegreenmarket posts.
You can literally watch the season bloom with each visit to the market. I love this for inspiration.
This Farmers Market Pasta Bowl is a go-to for utilizing all those wonderful odds and ends from weekly market hauls. It's a comforting, veggie-packed meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and equally delicious as leftovers for lunch the next day!
Here are my top tips (and a loose recipe) for making the most of your farmers market haul and whipping up this scrumptious pasta bowl:
Explore: Before making any purchases, I always take a stroll around the market to survey the displays. Look out for vibrant colors and fresh-looking produce while also taking note of prices. Since buying organic is a priority for me, I make sure to spot signs indicating organic, no-spray/pesticide options, etc. Once I have done a full lap I’ll go back through and get my #bestofthegreenmarket selections.
Know What's in Season: It's crucial to familiarize yourself with the fruits and vegetables that are currently in season in your region. You can do this by researching online or simply asking the farmers directly. While most farmers markets predominantly offer in-season produce, it's wise to stay informed about what's at its peak, what's on its way out, and what's coming in next to ensure you always get the best quality.
Engage with the Farmers: Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with the farmers. They're usually passionate about their produce and can offer valuable insights into what's in season, how to select the best items, and even share recipe ideas.
Embrace Variety: Farmers markets are perfect for exploring unique and heirloom varieties of fruits and vegetables. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Let yourself be inspired by the diverse selection.
Inspect Your Choices: When selecting produce, check for firmness and ripeness. Examine the skin for any blemishes, bruises, or discolorations. Take a moment to smell for fresh, fragrant aromas. Additionally, consider the weight of the produce; heavier items often indicate juiciness and ripeness. For me, part of the joy of visiting the market is the ability to handpick the most beautiful produce from the bunch.
Now let’s make a Pasta Bowl!
Feel free to get creative and customize your pasta bowl based on what's available at the farmers market each week. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetable combinations and flavor profiles to create a dish that's uniquely yours.
