By Bethany Sinnott
Master Gardener Volunteer
SALISBURY – Several varieties of peas hint of the approach of autumn at the Salisbury Farmers Market.
Combine some of those peas with a little rice, bacon and hot peppers for a favorite Southern dish, Hoppin’ John. Or gather up a mess of turnip, mustard or other fresh greens available for a healthy, low-calorie side dish.
Toi Degree, Extension Family and Consumer Science agent, recently took advantage of seasonal fruit to produce a delicious bread pudding and apple dip, which she served to passersby at the market. The dip used only cream cheese, brown sugar and vanilla, and it was scrumptious. Eagle Farm folks were eagerly trying different varieties of apples with the dip.
Summer vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, squash and zucchini are still available from several vendors, as well as various kinds of potatoes.
Blueberry Acres offers muscadines and scuppernongs, along with some of the largest cantaloupes I have seen.
Craft vendors add to the color and festive atmosphere at the Farmers Market. I bought a beautiful, swirly, blue and silver bud vase from Daydreamer Glass. Forrest Day, the glassblower, is at the market only occasionally, but seeing his creations is a treat. Quaint, colorful birdhouses, quilts and other stitchery items vie for the shoppers’ attention.
Take home a treat for your dog – you can pick up Barking Bacon, Chicken Chews and Peanut Paws at the Canine Kitchen.
Summer may be waning, but there is much to look forward to. The Funky Pepper, in addition to their spaghetti and pasta sauces, will feature whole-wheat crust pizzas in the fall. At the Bread Basket, Emma expects to offer apple dumplings next week and other treats later on.
Don’t forget fall flowers. Garden Greenhouse has colorful pansies and chrysanthemums ready to brighten your yard. See Lee Ly for fresh flowers, from large bouquets to little nosegays, designed to brighten your week. Aromatic herbs are available from Garden Greenhouse and Country Gardens.
Keep those lawn mower blades – and other utensils – sharp. Let Grindtec have them on Saturday, and they will have them ready for you the next Saturday.
Visit the Farmers Market, at the corner of South Main and Bank Streets, on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon until Christmas. Please note: The last day for Wednesday’s market will be Sept. 26. The market will be open only on Saturdays beginning in October. Please visit the website at www.salisburyfarmersmarket.com for more detailed information.Bethany Sinnott is an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer with Cooperative Extension in Rowan County.