Tour of the Markets-Stow Community Farmers Market, Stow, OH
A beautiful morning to walk through this community farmers market! Heading into their 13th season, this town has come together to bring a wonderful mix of offerings, starting with a delicious meal while listening to some music! Join me as I walk through this week’s market and see what’s in season!
There is something about strolling through a market with live music playing that just makes all the difference in the world! And I couldn’t help myself…they were hitting all of the favorites and it was hard not to find your foot tapping!
The homemade goods were plentiful, starting with lots and lots of maple syrup!
There was a wonderful fragrance wafting through the air walking by this booth! Fabulous, organic candles in lots of natural scents, these were a very welcomed aroma!
I thought I knew my tea, but this display went far and above the Earl Grey! There were so many varieties to choose from!
From larger vendors that travel to many locations to local vendors that are a familiar neighbor, this market brought it all! It felt as if I was in a reunion of crafters or a block party!
The range of goods was prepared for all seasons, sizes, and colors! These beautiful knit articles were just a small sampling of the many items displayed.
As I’m touring markets this year, I’m realizing an ever increasing amount of pet merchandise. In conversation, I’ve learned this is one of the most up and coming areas!
Another unique offering! These sewn pillowcases (scarves, napkins, etc) all came in wildly creative fabric patterns, that are often tailored for gift ideas and sold around the country! (great work Karen-check her out: www.facebook.com/pillowcasestalk)
And what would a farmers market be if there wasn’t a place to sharpen my antique knives?! This was both genius and fascinating, not only at the process but the knives present.
My mouth always starts watering as I enter the baked goods section, and these flavors did not disappoint. Not only did they have some more traditional herbs and cheeses, but also sweet varieties. Delicious!
Rounding out my grocery cart for the week is the stop for dairy! I have loved seeing the abundance of farm eggs this year, and happy to hear how many vendors often sell out each day. Yay!
This hydroponic nursery (Nature’s Garden Produce) had a gorgeous display of greens, extending the season’s offerings!
Moving from the bitter spring greens, it was refreshing to see so many types of lettuces, all organic and so fresh!
We are still in the season of ground harvests, and there was plenty to choose from!
These garlic scapes were something out of a photo album. They always seem like a beautiful plant to me, but these just stood out as picturesque!
Yum! Not only were there microgreens of plenty, the owners were extremely knowledgeable and happy to share a sample and tips on recipes! Great work Amanda and Fresh Life Farms!
A nice goodbye as I stroll back to my car, I leave with the lingering fragrance of floral arrangements. A great way to end a gorgeous morning!
My shopping bag felt quite abundant as I made the drive away, and excited to start my exploration of recipes! As the produce was heavy on greens, I found a bit of a challenge to think outside the box, as I use lettuce and kale almost daily. Because of this, I tried to approach new methods of cooking, and trying to draw out the flavors more than just enjoying as an added ingredient. I’d love to hear any feedback if you try out this week’s creations!
Kale and Sausage Stuffed Chicken Breast with Roasted Garlic Feta Cream Sauce
Summer Greens Crustless Quiche with Tomatoes and Bacon
Grilled Avocado and Asparagus Microgreen Salad
Sunflower Microgreen Slaw with Carrots and Almonds
I was in love with this small town vibe! From the church concession stand to the banjo playing music, this just felt like going back home to me. Because I came at a lull in their day, I was able to chat with quite a few more vendors than usually and get a great insight to the community! From the start, this journey has always been first and foremost about enjoying the experience and meeting people, and Stow, OH did not disappoint!
If you haven’t been following along, this is a part of the Tour of the Market series that I started in the summer of 2022, as a way to explore various farmers markets and try cooking with the local and seasonal offerings that they provide. I’d love to have you follow along with me as I continue this journey! Check out the past tours here.
You can also catch the recipes as they are published by liking and following Goddess of Garlic via Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest! If you’d like to see video tours, many of these are also available on TikTok.
Thanks again for tagging along on this journey!
Hannah (your fearless culinary visionnaire)
