We had another beautiful day at the Market last week. The morning clouds parted and gave way to some incredible sunshine along with a little spell of wind. Many of the vendors were holding down their tents to keep them from flying off, and I witnessed a few minor injuries. If you haven’t had the chance to check out the market yet this year, Saturday looks like another great opportunity with outstanding weather and more incredible local products.
Sadly, I don’t have much news to report on the produce front. Last week was nearly a repeat of the week prior with plenty of fresh salad greens, ruby rhubarb and phenomenal asparagus. I did catch a glimpse of a market-goer with a bright red basket of strawberries and I expect to see more in the coming weeks. For now, the greens are at their best and are enough to keep me more than satisfied.
Meanwhile, there are some new offerings at the market this year in the snacking department. I highly recommend trying the granola bars made by Stewart’s Artisan Breads and Desserts. They are packed full of dried fruits and nuts, and hearty enough to keep you going all morning. Stewart also sells fresh-baked breads, bagels and sweets and is one of my favorite new vendors.
Tiny Greens has been drawing quite the crowd lately with not only a much heftier supply of sprouts, but wheatgrass shots, sprouted wheat tortillas and a variety of healthy wraps, salads and snacks.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to try the Dairy Barn’s ice cream. I will have to report back later; my mouth was accidentally full of kettle korn.
The Market on the Square runs every Saturday from 7 a.m.-noon, rain or shine now through Nov. 8. It is located in the parking lot of Lincoln Square Mall on the corners of Vine and Illinois streets in Urbana.