Holding On to Summer

Tomatoes galore!

Tomatoes galore!

I am in denial, even though the maple tree in my front yard started turning this weekend. It can't be! Summer can't be over... I'm not ready for cold rainy days followed by sleet and snow. Fortunately, there's an antidote to that kind of depression setting in - a visit to the farmers' market! Nothing like the colors, sounds, aromas and flavors of the market to pep me up!

 

Freshly made herbaceous coolers: lime/lemongrass, hibiscus, strawberry and more

Freshly made herbaceous coolers: lime/lemongrass, hibiscus, strawberry and more

After a cool drink I'm off to plan my purchases - so many colors and choices! The plump, purple eggplants are glorious in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the herbs, oh my, so green and fragrant! What to choose? What to make? Thank goodness, my guy is with me ready to schlep!!

 

Mini eggplants! Perfect for stuffing, roasting and pickling

Mini eggplants! Perfect for stuffing, roasting and pickling

My creative juices start activating; I'll make  Southwestern Summer corn chowder, with roasted poblanos, some eggplant apps to freeze, Mardooma - a North African spicy tomato spread,and oh, look at that kohlrabi beauty! Perfect for a crunchy salad to add to dinner tonight.

 

Young, fresh kohlrabi 

Young, fresh kohlrabi

 

Tomorrow will be soup day, but tonight - here's a simple, quick and flavorful crunchy salad.

 

Fresh dill make all the difference!

Fresh dill make all the difference!