Spring produce is continuing to arrive at farmers tailgate markets, and this week we’re beginning to see more of our favorite alliums, including spring onions, scallions, and even some shallots! Be on the lookout over the next few weeks for more spring favorites, as well as some early summer crops, including peas, cucumbers, summer squash, asparagus, and more!
While quite similar in appearance, spring onions are distinct from scallions due to their larger bulbs and sweeter taste, and can be delicious when roasted whole with some olive oil, salt, and a bit of lemon juice. Scallions (or green onions), on the other hand, have the somewhat sharp, peppery flavor that is characteristic of white and yellow onions. The commonly used green tops of scallions are typically sliced and added to a dish as garnish, and the white bottom part is great for slicing and throwing into a stir fry. You can find spring onions from Ivy Creek Family Farm (North Asheville and Weaverville markets) and scallions from Thatchmore Farm (North and West Asheville markets).
Gaining Ground Farm brought french gray shallots to the North Asheville Tailgate Market last week. Cherished for their versatility and delicate umami flavor, shallots are a staple for any chef, foodie, or home cook. Shallots can easily be enjoyed a variety of different ways, including raw, roasted, caramelized, fried, and more! This caramelized shallot dip is an easy and delicious snack. In a medium skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add four large, finely chopped shallots and season generously with salt and pepper. Stirring occasionally, cook for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown and tender. In a bowl, mix together the caramelized shallots, one tablespoon apple cider vinegar, one-and-a-half cups greek yogurt, and a tablespoon of sliced chives, then season with salt and pepper. Serve with your favorite chips for dipping.
In addition to the produce grown by our favorite local farmers, markets are also full of plant starts so you can grow at home as well! Now’s the time to start planting for a summer garden, and markets have plenty of plant starts for warm weather produce like tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and more! Look for plant starts from vendors like Finally Farm (Asheville City and River Arts District markets), Full Sun Farm (North Asheville and River Arts District markets), Sustainabillies/Two Trees Farm (Asheville City Market), and more. You can also find starts for your favorite perennial berries from Bear Necessities Farm at Asheville City and West Asheville markets.
At farmers markets now you’ll also find strawberries, carrots, turnips, beets, radishes, mushrooms, and greens like lettuce, kale, spinach, broccoli rabe, and bok choy. Markets are also stocked with a variety of meats, cheese, rice, pasta, bread, pastries, drinks, and prepared foods. Find more details about farms and markets throughout the region in ASAP’s online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org.