Summer is a time when gardens burst with vibrant, nutrient-packed greens that invite us to create fresh and flavorful meals. From crisp salads to hearty main dishes, the bounty of summer greens provides endless culinary possibilities. If you’ve recently purchased some greens from the Gretna Farmers Market or a local produce stand, here are some mouthwatering recipes you should try!
A crisp, refreshing salad
When it comes to summer dining, salads take center stage. Combine a mix of baby spinach, arugula and butterhead lettuce for a refreshing base. Top it with fresh cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers and radishes. Enhance the flavors with crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or tofu. Drizzle with a zesty lemon vinaigrette to create a light yet satisfying meal that captures the essence of summer.
Grilled veggie wrap
Fire up the grill and transform your summer greens into a delicious wrap. Grill zucchini, bell peppers and eggplant until they're tender and slightly charred. Spread a layer of hummus on a whole-grain wrap, then pile on a handful of baby kale or Swiss chard leaves. Add the grilled veggies and a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese. Roll it up and enjoy a medley of flavors and textures that showcase the season's best produce.
Pesto pasta with spinach and peas
Elevate your pasta game by tossing al dente pasta with homemade basil pesto, fresh baby spinach and sweet garden peas. The vibrant green hues make this dish a visual delight. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of pine nuts for added crunch. This dish is not only satisfying, but it is also a great way to sneak in extra nutrients from the spinach and peas.
Greens and herb frittata
Start your day with a nourishing frittata packed with summer greens. Sauté a mix of Swiss chard, kale and spinach until wilted. Whisk eggs with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil and chives. Combine the sautéed greens with the egg mixture and pour into a preheated skillet. Cook until the edges set, then transfer to the oven to finish cooking. The result is a flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that celebrates the best of the season.
Smoothie bowl
Cool down on hot summer mornings with a vibrant green smoothie bowl. Blend together spinach, banana, pineapple and a splash of coconut water or almond milk. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with granola, sliced kiwi, berries and a drizzle of honey. This nutritious bowl offers a refreshing way to start your day while enjoying the goodness of summer greens.
Get all the produce you need for these recipes at the Gretna Farmers Market
Summer greens add a burst of flavor, color and nutrients to our meals. We have quite a few produce vendors at our farmers market, including microgreens by Fortune Farms Omaha. Adding microgreens to any of your recipes will give you a huge nutrition boost. You can find everything you need for the above recipes at the Gretna Farmers Market. Until October 21, we’ll be in downtown Gretna on McKenna Ave every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. Come check us out!
