Fresh Summer Sides

It's not all year round that our dear mitten state has a fresh and bountiful supply of homegrown produce.  In fact, we're experiencing the peak time right this minute (late summer to early fall).  So if you haven't taken advantage of all the yummy-ness that grows naturally out of the ground, now is the time.  Head over to a local farmer's market and load up your cart!  Here are some of my favorite fresh summer sides:

• Sweet Michigan Corn on the Cob - NOTHING like it!  Boil that baby for about ten minutes and enjoy!
• Fresh Tomato Slices - so much taste right now!  Goes great with that corn on the cob...
• Steamed Green Beans - steam until tender, yet still slightly crispy.
• Cucumbers - the options are endless!  Think chopped with tomatoes, onions, and red wine vinegar, or mixed with hummus and white cannellini beans.
• Red Peppers - Add to salads, dip them in hummus, or try roasting with some corn.  Season with cilantro, pepper, and salt.
• Grilled Zucchini & Yellow Squash - The perfect side to grilled meat or fish!  Cut long slices, toss in olive oil, season, and grill till charred.
• Baked Sweet Potato Fries - cut slices, toss in olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bake at 375 degrees for about a half hour (or until crispy).
• Fruit - the BEST dessert around!  Blueberries, strawberries, apples, pears, peaches, and the list goes on!

These are just a few of the best!  View the entire Michigan Crop Harvest Calendar to see when all of your favorite fruits and veggies are grown at home.  Visit Block's Stand & Greenhouse, Detroit's Eastern Market, or Wyandotte's Farmer's Market (First & Elm, open Noon-6PM) to purchase all local produce and products!

Song of the South - Alabama