Few fruits capture the essence of summer quite like cherries. Their arrival each year is fleeting — a sign that sunny days and farmers’ market abundance have truly begun. In California, the cherry season begins in mid-May, peaks by the end of the month, and quickly tapers off by mid-June. Blink, and you might miss...Read More

Bright, fragrant, and just a little unexpected, these Lemon Rosemary Blondies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert bar. Chef Hannah Cook created this recipe for our From Market to Table Chef Series at the Aptos Farmers Market, where she showcased how simple farmers market ingredients can be transformed into something elegant and memorable....Read More

Tabbouleh is a refreshing salad of bulgur wheat, fresh herbs, and vegetables that hails from the Eastern Mediterranean. Light, lemony, and herb-forward, it’s ideal as a side dish, part of a mezze spread, or a make-ahead lunch. INGREDIENTS: 3/4 cup bulgur 1 cup hot water 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2...Read More

Lavender, with its unmistakable fragrance and calming properties, has long been prized for its beauty and therapeutic benefits. Native to the mountainous regions of the Western Mediterranean, this versatile herb was introduced to America by early settlers and has been cultivated for centuries. Of the approximately 40 known species, English lavender remains the most sought-after,...Read More

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm mug of herbal tea in hand. The aroma, the gentle steam, the way it invites you to slow down — it’s a simple pleasure that never gets old. While traditional teas like black, green, and chamomile get plenty of love, there’s a vibrant, aromatic world just waiting to...Read More

Squash has a natural sweetness that pairs well with spicy, smoky, or citrusy flavors. This taco recipe layers texture and flavor, with pepitas (pumpkin seeds) adding protein and crunch. INGREDIENTS: 2 Delicata squashes, halved, seeded, sliced into half-moons 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Salt, cumin, smoked paprika Corn tortillas ¼ cup sour cream or...Read More

This rustic, velvety bean soup proves that simple ingredients can deliver big comfort. White beans form the hearty backbone — protein-packed, inexpensive, and naturally creamy once blended —while roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness that deepens with every spoonful. Smoked paprika brings just the right amount of warmth and smokiness, giving the soup a rich,...Read More

Cabbage is affordable, long-lasting, and packed with fiber. Charring brings out sweetness and umami. The miso butter makes it rich and savory, while sesame seeds add crunch. INGREDIENTS: 1 head green or purple cabbage, cut into 1-inch slices 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or plant-based butter) 1 tablespoon white...Read More

As grocery prices climb — especially with recent tariffs hitting imported foods — more families are rethinking how they shop, cook, and eat. But shifting toward a plant-forward diet doesn’t mean going full vegetarian or vegan. It’s not about labels or restrictions — it’s about eating more mindfully, more sustainably, and yes, even more deliciously....Read More

Sauerkraut is a perfect starting point for home fermentation enthusiasts, thanks to its simplicity. With just cabbage, salt, and a basic grasp of fermentation, you can create a delicious, probiotic-rich staple. Mastering this process paves the way for experimenting with other fermented foods like pickles and kimchi! The Science Behind Sauerkraut Lactobacillus bacteria, often called...Read More