Columbus Foodie

I think I’ve finally figured out why it’s been taking me longer than usual to make my Saturday morning farmers market run – tons of road construction on our highways here on Columbus means I have to take so many detours, that it takes me twice as long to travel from one market to another. It’s been really frustrating to get around this area, to say the least. Your highway dollars at work, folks…

But I digress. Once again, we got a pretty early start, arriving at the North Market at that sweet time where everyone is pretty much already set up, but it isn’t crowded yet. This week, I saw the first of the pickling cucumbers at the Rhoads Farms stand, but Paul gave me that glare that told me that he wanted a week off between the dozens of jars of mulberry jelly he canned and doing pickles. Not that pickles are hard to can, but I can understand where he’s coming from. It was a bit hot this past weekend, and I wouldn’t have wanted to be canning either.

We did, however, pick up some beautiful blueberries from The Orchard of Bill and Vicky Thomas. I love blueberries. I’m hoping that I can find a pick your own blueberry farm within an hour’s driving distance. If I do, I’ve got some plans…

And at Elizabeth Telling Farms, I picked up a couple of bunches of collard greens, to be part of an all local soul food dinner I was planning….

Other notable gets at the North Market? The first of the Chioggia beets of the season, which were made into a lovely cold salad with a vinaigrette and local feta.

Off to Worthington, which was already crowded by the time we made our way over there. Nonetheless, there was still plenty of produce to be had, including the last of the early season’s strawberries. We picked up a quart, although we’re a bit strawberry fatigued at this point. I have plans this week to make up a batch of strawberry ice cream using Snowville Cream. I did pass on the cherries this week, though, no matter how enticing they were.

Similarly, I admired all of the beautiful flowers that seemed to be everywhere. I guess that’s how we know we’re into the thick of the season.

Finally, off to Clintonville, where I didn’t buy much this week. I did pick up some cornmeal and whole wheat flower from Flying J Farms. I hear that there will be sweet corn there this weekend. Can’t wait! In the meantime, check out these stunning beets.

Tonight, I’m checking out the new farmers market in old Dublin. Say hi to me if you see me there – I’ll be the chick taking a bunch of pictures.