It’s Spring in New York City!

Spring time in New York City puts a few thoughts in my mind, the three F’s — farmer’s markets, fresh flowers, and flip flops! Now that we are finally having some gorgeous weather you will notice happier New Yorkers, lots of outdoor shopping vendors, and of course my favorite… farmer’s markets! What is so great about these little markets, you ask? Well for starters, the prices are great and you can find so many interesting ingredients from organic, local farmers. Plus, these ingredients are fresh and might be something you would normally overlook at your regular grocery store.

There are many of these markets popping up all over the city and I came across an unexpected one in the center of Stuyvesant Town in the East Village. This is a great way to meet new people, sample some fresh ingredients, and spend a few hours outdoors on weekends. The Green Markets are part of Grow NYC and are placed all over the city. This non-profit organization provides New Yorkers with access to fresh, locally grown food and help build a safe, clean, healthy environment for everyone, including future generations.

Okay, let’s get back to the interesting ingredients I found at the Stuyvesant Town market. I bought a fillet of Perch, a sweeter fish that is excellent sautéed in butter. I was able to pick up baby potatoes, fresh garlic, and rosemary. Whipping up a meal with these ingredients was fun, delicious and only cost me $10.00, which was a steal considering I still had plenty of potatoes and rosemary to use for the rest of the week.

Note: To save rosemary and/or other fresh herbs from going bad, melt butter or use olive oil and place in ice cube trays with your fresh herbs. It is a great way to freeze them to last longer. Then just throw it in the pan with your next recipe… so simple!

Now that you’ve seen my mouthwatering concoction it’s time for you to head to the closet farmer’s market and get cooking!