Bluegrass Farmers Market

And, we are talking green beans! Which, by the way do not really have to be green in color...try the yellow or purple beans too. I do have to admit that the first time I prepared the purple beans, I was a bit disappointed to find that they do not stay purple. The great part is they are still loaded with flavor!

I have to admit that folks are adamant about their choice of green bean varieties. I love Jade beans because I am sauteing queen when it comes to veggies...I love them crisp tender. Now, my hubby is a true southerner...he wants a big old ham hock and taters in his green beans and he wants them simmered for hours but only after I have spent an hour getting the strings out and snapping them. It doesn't matter which you prefer, green beans are in season and there is a variety for everyone, just talk to your farmer for suggestions. At the Bluegrass Farmers' Market, we can guarantee that the farmer grew those green beans!!!

Here are a few recipes that customers gave me for everyone to try.

Beans Onions'n Maters

2 lb green beans, snapped (or left whole) and cooked until tender...you can steam some varieties!

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder...or use fresh minced garlic!

2 medium tomatoes, peeled and diced

salt and pepper to taste

Once beans have been cooked, drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and saute' onions until translucent. Add garlic and tomatoes...heat through. Add green beans and toss, cooking until just heated. Salt and Pepper to taste.

BBB

Basil, Butter and Beans

4 cups fresh green beans, snapped into 2” pieces

1/4 cup onion, chopped

1/4 cup celery, chopped

1/2 cup water

2 tablespoons butter, melted

2 tablespoons fresh basil, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Simmer green beans, onion, celery and water in a covered skillet for about 5 minutes or until beans are tender. Once tender, drain and return to the skillet along with the butter, basil, salt and pepper...toss to coat and heat through.

And, I couldn't help but share this recipe that I found because it sounds soooooo wonderful! Yes, I am drooling and can't wait to get to the market on Saturday and buy some beans, basil and taters to try this one!!!

http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2009/06/pesto-potato-salad-with-green-beans/

Don't forget that this Saturday is our Customer Appreciation Day...at both market locations! We'll be giving away a limited supply of flexible cutting boards so that you'll have an easier time in the kitchen preparing our Recipe Wednesday goodies!