Upgrade your health with fresh greens, fruits and nuts: Market opens Feb. 4th at 10:00 am
#BeavertonFarmersMarket
January is the month when it is common for people to examine the way they eat, what they eat, and how much. Usually because it falls on the heels of the holidays when over-indulgence is common, and people feel the sting of the extra pounds that comes with it. Each of us will determine what changes need to occur and plan a course of action to make it happen.
One of the most powerful ways to upgrade your health is to enjoy a diversity of plant foods. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables can decrease blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease/stroke and lower your blood sugar. Fruits and veggies are high in fiber and along with beans and whole grains, are the preferred foods to boost your gut health.
Shopping at a farmers market is the perfect way to add fruit and vegetables to your diet. BONUS: It also means that you are shopping locally and in season, which ensures you have the best-tasting fruits and vegetables around. Besides the tasty foods you get to enjoy being outdoors while at the farmers market. Since parking is a bit of a challenge here at the BFM, you will also get extra steps walking the couple of blocks from your car to the market.
Our farmers have worked hard to find ways to work their fields during the cold winter months and we think that you will be pleasantly surprised at the fresh produce to be had when we open for the 2023 Season on February 4th, 10am – 1:30 pm. Stop by and pick up the ingredients for our favorite winter salad.
Northwest Pear, Blue Cheese and Hazelnut Salad (serves 4-6)
The quantity and ratio of ingredients is up to you depending upon your tastes. Maybe you like more blue cheese or less than someone else. Feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your tastes.
- 2 Bosc Pears, slightly underripe
Coat pears with flavorless oil and grill for several minutes on each side until tender but still firm. Chop into ½ “ pieces. Cool completely.
The grilling of the pears is a nice touch but don’t be put of by this step if you don’t have an easy way to grill them (indoor grill, grill pan…). Lightly poached pears would be very nice but plain ol’ normal pears would be good too.
To assemble salad, toss pears with:
- 8 c. Field Greens
- ¼ lb. Blue Cheese, crumbled
- Maple Dressing (recipe below)
Top with:
- ½ c. Toasted Hazelnuts, chopped
For Maple Dressing, combine in jar and shake:
- ¼ c. maple syrup (slightly warmed in microwave)
- 1 ½ T. apple cider vinegar
- ¼ c. olive oil
This dressing may be made in advance. Let it warm up a bit before using.
(From Rachael Ray’s 30 Minute Meals).
