April at the Claremont Farmers Market

April is a great month to visit the farmers market in Claremont. The produce is in peak season and there are so many delicious recipes to choose from. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Asparagus Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This simple salad is a perfect way to showcase the fresh asparagus that is in season in April. The lemon vinaigrette adds a bright and refreshing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

2. Add the asparagus and parsley to the bowl and toss to coat.

3. Serve immediately.

Artichokes with Lemon Butter Sauce

Artichokes are another delicious spring vegetable that is in season in April. This simple recipe is a great way to enjoy them.

Ingredients:

• 4 large artichokes

• 1 lemon, halved

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup white wine

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Trim the artichokes by cutting off the top 1/2 inch of the leaves and the stem. Rub the cut surfaces with the lemon halves.

2. Place the artichokes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Add the lemon halves and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender when pierced with a fork.

3. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil, white wine, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Drain the artichokes and place them on a serving platter. Pour the sauce over the artichokes and serve immediately.

Frittatas with Asparagus and Peas

Frittatas are a great way to use up leftover vegetables. This recipe is packed with asparagus and peas, two of the best vegetables in season in April.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 10 eggs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the asparagus and peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the vegetables.

3. Cook the frittata over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until the bottom is set. Use a spatula to loosen the frittata from the pan and flip it over. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the frittata is cooked through.

4. Let the frittata cool slightly before slicing and serving.

These are just a few ideas for recipes that you can make with produce from the farmers market in April. With so much delicious produce in season, there are endless possibilities. So get creative and enjoy the fresh flavors of spring!