Summer Breeze

I spent a glorious morning at the San Francisco farmer's market today. The sky was blue, the sun shining, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and smoking sausages were very welcoming. I first headed towards the back of the market near the water. I always stop at the Cafe Primavera booth to get a wonderfully prepared Mexican breakfast. Homemade chorizo and eggs were the menu selection today. The fluffy eggs and slightly spicy sausage were served with refried black beans, fresh chunky salsa, sliced avocado, sour cream and a sprinkle of queso fresco. Freshly made tortillas were served with the already abundant plate of food. I enjoyed my chorizo con huevos as I sat near the dock and watched people briskly pass by with fruit, veggies and flowers in hand.

Peaches, cherries, onions, greens and baby squash were abundant at numerous stands today. I walked around a bit and sampled the different fruits before making my purchases. I discovered a stall that was selling juicy and sweet white peaches. The Saturn variety of peaches are unique. They are flat in shape, and small, almost the size of an apricot. The skins are a pale orange and pink and the flesh a light cream color. Very succulent and sweet with hints of honey. I grabbed a few of those and some apriums, which are a cross between apricots and plums.

Orchard fresh Peaches

I discovered a stand that had a vast assortment of baby squash. Zebra, patty pan, and petite zucchini in different shades of green and yellow. I purchased some squash and a small bundle of collard greens from the neighboring vendor. I started menu planning as a gathered all my produce. I thought "how about some good 'ol Southern food for dinner tonight." I had plenty of veggies for cooking, I just needed something for dessert. Plump cherries would make a great cobbler so a few went into my bag, and off I went home to start cookin'.


Babby Summer Squash and Blossoms

Before I got the oven fired up I cooled off with a refreshing cocktail. I mixed up a potent blend of Southern Comfort and a splash of peach juice. With a warm breeze blowing through the kitchen window, Classic Rock playing from the radio, and a cold drink nearby I was ready to cook.

This time around I skipped the meat. Usually I include some form of protein in my Southern fare. Bar-b-que chicken, pulled pork or fried catfish. However, today I simply wanted vegetables and maybe some mac-n-cheese of course. When I lived in Florida, my comfort food was flavored with bacon renderings, ham hocks and loads of butter, today I opted for organic vegetable stock, olive oil and hot sauce. Still flavorful, but fewer in calories and less fat. I realized that now living in California I am more aware of where my food comes from, how farmers and animals are treated and how food in it's simplest form is not only nourishing to the body but also fills the heart and soul with peace of mind and well being.

Kale and Collard Greens

So, here is what is on the menu for tonight.
Iced hibiscus tea with orange blossom honey
Thick slices of heirloom tomatoes sprinkled with sea salt
Stewed collard greens with apple vinegar and a splash of hot sauce
Oven baked macaroni and cheese topped with sharp cheddar
Crispy sauteed baby squash and sweet onions
Cherry cobbler with crunchy almond streusel and vanilla ice cream

Enjoy the summer bounty and stay happy, healthy and well fed!
Until next time Happy Eating!

The Food Diva