Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a member of the nightshade family, sharing its botanical lineage with tomatoes and potatoes. This strikingly diverse fruit—often mistaken for a vegetable—carries a long and fascinating history. In the 1600s, eggplants were called mala insane or “mad apples,” reflecting the belief that eating them might cause insanity. While those...Read More
Savor the vibrant flavors of summer with this Roasted Heirloom Tomato Tart. Bursting with the rich flavors and colors of heirloom tomatoes and the creamy tang of whipped goat cheese, this tart is elevated by a zesty lemon-walnut basil pesto. Whether served at brunch or dinner, it’s a dish that promises to delight your guests...Read More
Get ready to spice up your salsa with the zesty flavors of tomatillos! These little green gems are hitting their peak season at farmers markets, bringing a burst of tangy goodness to your kitchen. Dating back to the Aztecs, who cultivated them as far back as 800 BC in Mexico, tomatillos have a rich history...Read More
Who doesn’t appreciate the special joy of indulging in ripe, juicy, and flavorful tomatoes during the summer season? Summer tomatoes are highly anticipated by many food enthusiasts because they tend to be at their peak of sweetness and flavor. The warmth of the summer sun seems to infuse these tomatoes with an extra burst of...Read More
Our Penne Pasta with Creamy Avocado, Tuna, Tomato and Basil is a delightful and vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer. Quick to prepare, this recipe combines the rich creaminess of avocado with the savory flavors of tuna, complemented by the freshness of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil. Perfect for a light yet satisfying...Read More
This vibrant pasta salad is summer in a bowl—bright, fresh, and full of zesty flavor. The creamy lime-cilantro dressing brings a tangy kick with just a touch of heat, pairing beautifully with sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the buttery richness of avocado. A sprinkle of Cotija cheese adds a salty, savory finish, while optional...Read More
Few things capture the taste of summer better than a scoop of homemade strawberry ice cream. Bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe, juicy strawberries and balanced by a luxuriously creamy base, this recipe is a celebration of the season’s best fruit. With no artificial flavors or colors—just simple ingredients you can find at your...Read More
Stone fruit season has finally arrived! The market booths are filled with sweet, juicy peaches, plums, nectarines, apricots, pluots, and apriums. Did you know California grows about 90 percent of the nectarines and plums produced in the US and approximately 70 percent of all the peaches? A Bounty of Varieties With over 200 varieties of...Read More
Fresh, light, and full of bold flavors, these lettuce wraps are a perfect balance of healthy eating and vibrant taste. This recipe was featured in the From Market to Table cooking demonstration by Chef DJ Zack of H & H Fresh Fish Company, highlighting the quality of locally caught Bluefin tuna. The star of the...Read More
It’s officially jam-making season, and the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets are a haven for anyone eager to preserve the flavors of summer. In early June, the stalls burst with berries—strawberries, olallieberries, blackberries, blueberries, loganberries, raspberries, and gooseberries. Cherries and Blenheim apricots overlap for a short but sweet window, while early stone fruits like plums,...Read More
