In generations past, thrifty Southern cooks made sure that not a bit of summer’s bounty went to waste — even the rind of a watermelon found new life in the pickle crock. These old-fashioned watermelon pickles transform humble rind into glossy, jewel-toned bites that are both crunchy and sweet-tart, with just enough spice and heat...Read More

This Apricot Almond Chutney is one of those timeless preserves that instantly elevates everything it touches. Sweet, tangy, and aromatic with ginger, garlic, and a touch of lemon zest, it captures the warmth of summer in every spoonful. The addition of golden raisins and almonds adds texture and depth, making it a beautiful accompaniment to...Read More

This rustic Alsatian Onion Cake, or Zwiebelkuchen, comes from the French-German border region of Alsace — a place celebrated for its vineyards, hearty country fare, and old-world hospitality. Traditionally served during the fall grape harvest, this savory tart features a buttery crust filled with sweet, slow-cooked onions, rich sour cream, and eggs, baked until golden...Read More

This bright, rose-colored drink brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Inspired by the iced hibiscus beverages served at Caribbean street carnivals, the Caribbean Cooler combines tart hibiscus tea with pineapple, orange, and sparkling water for a perfectly balanced refresher. It’s beautiful in a pitcher, brimming with citrus slices and ice — and...Read More

This rich and velvety Banana-Cocoa Smoothie proves that healthy can taste indulgent. Silken tofu adds a luxuriously smooth texture and a boost of plant-based protein, while frozen banana gives natural sweetness and body. Blended with cocoa and your choice of non-dairy milk, it’s a perfect morning energizer, post-workout refuel, or guilt-free chocolate fix any time...Read More

Few desserts capture the spirit of the season quite like apple pie — and this one truly lives up to its name. The Ultimate Apple Pie, shared by Catherine Barr, Executive Director of the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets, has become a local legend. Catherine has taken home more blue ribbons from the county fair...Read More

These Fudge Brownies are everything a true chocolate lover dreams of — glossy tops, deeply fudgy centers, and that perfect balance between dense and tender. Made with high-quality butter, Dutch-process cocoa, and the best chocolate chips you can find, they deliver a depth of flavor that’s both sophisticated and nostalgic. The touch of espresso powder...Read More

Every spring, when berry season bursts to life on the Central Coast, few farms are as eagerly awaited as Prevedelli Farms. For generations, the Prevedelli family has been bringing baskets of fragrant, sun-ripened berries to our farmers markets — and this cobbler, from Geri Prevedelli herself, captures the heart of that tradition. Sweet blackberries bubble...Read More

Some recipes simply feel like home — their aroma alone can warm a kitchen and draw everyone close. This Apple Raisin Walnut Spice Cake, shared by longtime farmers market customer Kimberly Wright, is one of those enduring classics. Made with tart, heirloom apples and a generous mix of raisins soaked in bourbon or dark rum,...Read More

Few things capture the essence of spring quite like tender baby artichokes and just-picked asparagus. When roasted, their natural sweetness deepens, their edges turn crisp and caramelized, and they take on a rich, nutty flavor that’s impossible to resist. Here, the vegetables are paired with a zesty Lemon-Oregano Aioli—a creamy, garlicky sauce infused with fresh...Read More