My friend Rho and I took a drive this Saturday to the Upcountry Farmers Market. Though the air was voggy and the Kona weather was upon us, there was no rain which made for a nice trip Upcountry. The farmers market operates on Saturdays from 7am – 12pm so it’s good idea to get there early for the best selection of produce and other goodies that are offered.
Breadfruit, taro and potato frites.
Isn’t this bouquet of greens gorgeous? Once I returned home I untied the bouquet to see what was inside.
Kale, Swiss chard, baby bok choy, tender lettuce leaves, mizuna, Italian parsley, purple basil, edible flowers and more.
I finely chopped some of the greens and quickly sautéed them in a bit of Earth Balance Buttery Spread, sprinkled the greens with a sea salt flakes, freshly ground pepper and a drizzle of lemon juice. This, along with brown rice and mock chicken tofu, was my Saturday night vegan dinner. It was simply delicious.
Besides an abundance of beautiful produce there are plants, flowers, honey, baked goods, food stands, fresh pasta and more. And, if you feel the need to relax, there is massage available too.
These locally grown strawberries were perfectly ripe. I wish I had bought more than one basket.
Strolling along I found this table with fresh pasta and ravioli. After speaking to Ron the owner of Maui Pasta Company, I was happy to find his pastas are available in a store near my home (this farmers market is a long drive from where I live).
I was all set for my Sunday lunch. Basil pasta with homemade tomato sauce and a spring lettuce salad with greens that came from the market and home-grown tomatoes along with John’s excellent sourdough bread spread with Maui Raw Gourmets vegan cultured macadamia nut cheese (kalamata olive & cherry wood balsamic). The pasta had a pleasant texture and subtle basil flavor that went well with the tomato sauce and sprinkling of parmigiano reggiano cheese.
Vendor table optional!
Fresh cut protea flowers.
The vendors at the market are very friendly and eager to share their stories with you. With all the beautiful produce and unique products not found at other markets I will definitely make the drive to the Upcountry Farmers Market again, coolers filled with ice packs ready for the journey home.