basil Archives - ASAP Connections

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

August 9, 2024

With abundant tables of produce at tailgate markets, pair those summer meals with fresh herbs and take a dish to the next level. Not only do herbs bring bursts of flavor, but depth and aroma to brighten your senses. Of course, dry herbs can work too if you’re in a pinch, but with a plethora … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

July 5, 2024

Tomatoes are beginning their first appearances at Buncombe County farmers markets. Tomatoes come in almost endless varieties and are champions of versatility! With so many options to choose from and plenty of ways to utilize them in your cooking, tomatoes will be on your shopping list at farmers markets for the rest of summer through … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

June 21, 2024

With a heat wave gripping most of the Eastern United States this week, it’s too hot to cook! Luckily, we’re entering the season of chilled soups and gazpacho. These dishes are essentially vegetable smoothies to eat from a bowl—or even drink from a glass if you prefer! They require no heat to prepare, but pack … Read more

Caprese Salad

July 20, 2023July 19, 2023

There are many types of tomatoes available at farmers markets July through September. Look for colorful heirloom varieties like Green Zebra, Mr. Stripey, or Cherokee Purple. Or substitute your favorite cherry or grape tomatoes for perfectly sized bites. Servings: 3-4 Ingredients Directions

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

June 23, 2023

blueberries at River Arts District Farmers Market

Summer has officially arrived, and the new season has brought an abundance of exciting new produce! Blueberries made their return to markets this week. Whether you just enjoy eating them fresh, or putting them to good use in baking, there are plenty of ways you can get creative with the fruit this season! You can … Read more

Chef Melinda Aponte’s Zucchini Lasagna

July 20, 2023October 17, 2022

Melinda Aponte of the YWCA of Asheville and Hannah Jeske of R Farm

Melinda Aponte is the nutrition coordinator for the YWCA of Asheville’s Early Learning Program. She’s worked with several local farms to provide the children with fresh, healthy meals daily. She is pictured on the left with farmer Hannah Jeske of R Farm. I’m sharing this recipe because it’s so homey. There’s something about a casserole—lasagna … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

April 26, 2022July 30, 2021

We spotted the first of the season’s melons at farmers tailgate markets this week, heralding the arrival of summer’s midpoint. Of course, melons of all types are ideal for eating fresh, but you can also incorporate them into your salads, cook them on the grill, or get creative with the rind.

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

April 26, 2022July 23, 2021

It can be hard to see past the rainbow of tomatoes, peaches, corn, summer squash, peppers, eggplants, and other summer favorites weighing down tables at farmers tailgate markets right now. But farmers are also bringing some superstar herbs to markets that pair wonderfully with these vegetables and offer new flavors.

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

April 26, 2022June 11, 2021

Steamy weather and intermittent thunderstorms can make cooking meals a real drag. Times like these call for a few refrigerator staples that can perk up a simple salad or help power through an afternoon lull. Luckily, fruit and berry season is kicking into gear at farmers tailgate markets. Beyond fresh eating and desserts, these are great for making zippy vinaigrettes and icy drinks.

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

April 26, 2022June 4, 2021

June is here and farmers tailgate markets are picking up speed with warmer weather and new produce finds each week. Look for garlic scapes, basil, summer squash, and even the very first cherries of the year.

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