September at the Farmers Market is a perfect mix of summer and fall. There are still plenty of summer favorites like zucchini and peppers with a few tomatoes too. Next to them you will find the beginnings of the fall harvest, which includes two of my favorite vegetables: butternut squash and sweet potatoes.
Sweet potatoes can be found at the supermarket all year long. While their appearance may be less appealing during the spring and summer, their taste is usually consistent no matter the season. Butternut squash, on the other hand, is a vegetable that only reveals its true nature during its peak season. I’ve tried to make some of my favorite dishes like butternut squash soup or butternut squash bread pudding with store bought squash during the off months. Let’s just say the results were a bit underwhelming.
You MUST take advantage of the bright orange and naturally sweet flesh of the butternut squash NOW. I’ve been making my favorites as well as experimenting with new recipes. These Butternut Squash, Kale and Crunchy Pepita tacos are divine!
I’ve also learned that butternut squash can be eaten raw! I made Butternut Squash with Cream Sauce using the Spiralizer. It’s a very fall dish that includes apples and cranberries, slightly sweet and very crunchy. Just be warned: making butternut squash noodles is an arm workout.
Speaking of apples, they made their first appearance at the market in late August. Not only will you find my favorite, Gala, you’ll find other sweet varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji and Ozark Gold. These apples can help satisfy your sweet tooth and meet the need for something crunchy with your lunchtime sandwich. I’ve been experimenting with a new apple recipe or two but they aren’t quite ready to share. Stay tuned!
Besides my fall favorites I’m also loving the fresh Portobello mushrooms. I keep making these Bistro White Bean Burgers because they are easy and I have most of the ingredients in my pantry at all times. I keep buying kale too and adding it to my chocolate and peanut butter protein shakes and green monster smoothies.
I’m going to be sad as peak farmers market season starts approaching. I am already morning the loss of the white peaches and blueberries. What seasonal favorite passed too quickly for you this year? What fall produce are you looking forward to?
