Peppers have arrived at the farmers markets and the mix and varieties increase each week. Chilies and peppers are popular for several reasons, including their unique taste, versatility in cooking, health benefits, and cultural significance. Here are some more fun facts about peppers: Peppers were originally cultivated in Central and South America and have been...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

When it comes to cooking pastured or grass-fed meats, remember that these meats are leaner than the usual grocery store grain-fed meats, so you need to cook them a little differently. Grilling For grilling steaks, keep the degree of doneness to medium at the most, although I recommend medium-rare. Use a lower heat and check...Read More

Summer is the perfect season to fire up the grill and enjoy deliciously marinated meats. A good marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with rich flavors, transforming your barbecue into a gourmet experience. The Science of Marinades Marinades typically consist of three key components: oil, acid, and flavor enhancers. The oil...Read More

Summer is synonymous with long days, warm nights, and the sweet relief of cold treats. Among the favorites, ice cream stands out as a quintessential summer indulgence. Making homemade ice cream with summer fruits from the farmers market is a delightful way to celebrate the season’s bounty. Freshly picked strawberries, juicy peaches, tangy blackberries, and...Read More

California peaches have rightfully earned a reputation for their succulent flavor and heavenly aroma. For those who seek the pure, classic taste of peaches, the yellow varieties are an ideal choice. Bursting with juiciness and sweetness, these peaches have a tangy bite due to their slightly higher acid content. On the other hand, California white...Read More

It’s officially jam-making season, and the Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets are a haven for jam enthusiasts. In early June, a stunning array of berries, including strawberries, olallieberries, blackberries, blueberries, loganberries, raspberries, and gooseberries, are in season. Moreover, cherries and Blenheim apricots overlap for a short period, while early stone fruits such as plums, apriums,...Read More

When it comes to apricots, there is one variety that stands out above the rest – the Blenheim apricot, a true California treasure. This variety gained prominence in the United States when it was introduced to California’s Santa Clara Valley in the 1880s. The region’s warm climate, ample sunshine, and well-drained soil provide ideal conditions...Read More

Small pickling cucumbers are available now at KT Farms at the Aptos Farmers Market, so this is the ideal time to make pickles. Making a small batch of pickles is a great weekend project that combines creativity with practicality. If you’re new to canning, following this simple guide for your first project will hopefully build...Read More

Cherry clafoutis makes a wonderful Memorial Day dessert and is one of the best ways to celebrate our short season of cherries. This is a simplified version of the classic French dessert — we prefer to pit our cherries, rather than leaving them whole. It is best served warm, ideally fresh out of the oven....Read More