Before moving to Oakland, I had never lived within a short distance to a farmers’ market. In the past, going to a farmers’ market always felt punishing. I would have to drive far away, try to beat traffic, and compete for parking once I got there. FYI, competition for parking in the Bay Area is fierce.
Now, going to the farmers’ market is part of my grocery routine. I go to the one by Grand Lake and it’s always the proper start to my weekend. The environment there is welcoming and festive (as there’s often live music), and you’re surrounded by mouthwatering aromas coming from all the food vendors. This particular market opens Saturdays from 9am-2pm, and features more than 40 local farmers and 30 specialty food vendors. I can find anything from produce to dim sum!
I typically either grab a bite at the market or get inspired by what’s there to whip up lunch at home. This time, I decided to make a light lunch with a few simple ingredients from the market. I made open-faced sandwiches with sourdough bread, goat cheese, fennel, white nectarines, “Early Girl” tomatoes (which are super juicy and almost as sweet as the nectarines), honey, and basil.
This lunch is true to my typical style of cooking, which involves using only a few, high-quality ingredients each time. This way, each ingredient can shine and my meal stays simple yet delicious.
Left: Tomatoes, fennel, basil, goat cheese, honey, S+P
Right: Nectarines, basil, goat cheese, honey, S+P
If you’re in the area, give this farmers’ market a try and let me know what you think!
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