As the days stretch longer and the vibrant colors of summer start to bloom, June brings a bounty of fresh produce ripe for the picking. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply enjoy exploring new flavors, the market stalls beckon with an array of delicious fruits and vegetables waiting to be discovered. So, grab your reusable bags and join me on a culinary adventure as we explore some of the best market produce to savor this June, perfect for longer days, poolside naps, and delightful meals.
1. Kohlrabi: A Crisp Slaw Champion
First up on our list is kohlrabi, a versatile vegetable that's perfect for creating a crisp and refreshing slaw. With its crunchy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor, kohlrabi is a delightful addition to any summer salad. Simply peel and julienne the kohlrabi, then toss it with your favorite dressing and a sprinkle of herbs for a delicious side dish that will elevate any meal.
2. Summer Squash: Grilled or Baked, It's a Winner
Summer squash, with its tender flesh and delicate flavor, is a must-have in your June market haul. Whether you choose to marinate and grill these young gourds to charred perfection or bake them with aromatic herbs and gooey cheese, the result is always a mouthwatering delight. Enjoy them as a side dish or incorporate them into pasta dishes for a taste of summer in every bite.
3. Fava Beans: Versatile and Delicious
Fava beans, with their vibrant green hue and buttery texture, are a true gem of the early summer harvest. Add them to soups and stews for a hearty boost of flavor and protein, or blanch and blend them into a creamy pesto to spread on toast or toss with pasta. These versatile legumes are a nutritious addition to your June menu and can elevate even the simplest of dishes.
4. Green Beans: A Classic Favorite
Green beans, a timeless favorite in the world of market produce, are a staple in my kitchen during the summer months. Pro tip - wash and blanch them to use throughout the week. This technique retains their crispness and color to use however you please. Their crunchy texture is great stir-fried with garlic and soy sauce for a flavorful side dish but also holds up to tangy vinaigrettes.
Side Note: Here's a Quick Pro Tip for Father's Day Weekend
Dads are the grill masters, the joke tellers, and the ones who always know how to fix a leaky faucet -o r at least point you in the right direction. This Father's Day, show your appreciation with a delicious (and affordable) steak dinner the whole family will love. Even if your cooking skills are more "burnt toast" than "perfectly seared," this quick and easy menu won't disappoint. This year I'm hosting for the Fathers in my life. Let me show you how I do it on a budget of just over $20 per person.
Father's Day Steak Dinner Grocery List
4 Tomahawk Steaks ($10/lb) - $100 total at Costco
2 Bags of Chopped Green Goddess Salad - $6.99 for 2 at Costco
5 pints of Baby Potatoes - 5 for $20 at Nancy's Produce
5 pints of Green Beans - 5 for $20 at Nancy's Produce
Layered Strawberry Shortcake - $18 at Wegman's
Prep your steaks by rubbing them in salt and pepper and allowing them to sit, unwrapped, on a wired rack in the fridge for 24 hours. This gives a slightly dry aged flavor and will give you a satisfying crust when searing.
The day of prep your grill and cook your steaksto your liking. Allow them to rest for 5-8 minutes. If you have butter and herbs place a few tablespoons along with a few sprigs of thyme over the steaks before the resting period.
You'll be able to get two servings per steak.
Assemble your bagged salad per the instructions printed on the bag.
For the potatoes, wash and par-boil them in salted water with any herbs or garlic you may have. Cook for about 5 minutes, drain and allow to cool slightly. While they cool set your oven to a low broil setting.
Once cool enough to handle, smash and season with olive oil, salt and pepper. If you have Parmesan grate a generous layer over the top. Broil in the oven for about 8 - 10 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crisp.
Rinse and clean [remove the stems] the green beans. Sauteed them in oil with onions, garlic, salt, pepper and finish with a squeeze of lemon.
Slice and serve up your Strawberry Shortcake from Wegman's.
Add about $5-$10 for taxes, aromatics, citrus, butter, cheese and any other seasonings you may not have.
That's it for Now!
As we embrace the longer days and the warmer weather of June, let's take the time to savor the abundance of market produce available to us. From the crunchy goodness of kohlrabi to the creamy richness of fava beans, there's a world of flavors waiting to be explored at the local market. So, next time you find yourself strolling through the market stalls, be sure to pick up some of these delicious fruits and vegetables to enjoy during your poolside naps and summer gatherings. Let me know how you make use of June's bounty in the comments.
Happy cooking and continue to eat well my friends!
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