Stock up on Soup Staples at the Farmer’s Market

The Central Coast has been blessed with sunny days the past few weeks. As we all know, however, those sunny days still give way to chilly nights. And what’s better on a cold winter night than a hot cup of hearty soup?

The is the perfect place to gather up locally grown produce for all your soup-making needs. Carrot, celery, onion and garlic are at the heart of every great soup. All the veggies that make up this aromatic soup base can be found at the market this time of year. Sautee this mixture in a little oil or fat until the veggies are soft and translucent to make a delicious soup base.

Once you’ve gathered up your aromatics, you can begin to collect your additions. Many winter vegetables are excellent soup ingredients. Find potatoes and chard, both delicious add-ins for soups, at Rio de Parra Organics. Pick up some mushrooms from the Blanca DeCicco stand for an earthy addition. Cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower—all available throughout the cold season—each add their own distinct flavor and character to soups. For a little extra heat, select some peppers to spice up your broth.

Other farmers' market finds this week are butternut squash, sweet potatoes, citrus fruits and avocados. And don’t despair, market shoppers. Spring is right around the corner!

Shopping at the market is a wonderful way to connect with your community, support local farmers and eat seasonally.

The Watsonville Certified Farmers' Market is 3-7  p.m. every Friday on the corner of Peck and Main streets. The market is open, rain or shine.