Winter Market in Southern New Hampshire

Last weekend, I decided to take a drive south and check out the Salem NH Farmers Market.

Similar to the Concord Winter Market, it is held at a year round greenhouse and garden center. It is open on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. On this Sunday, the Lake Street Garden Center was busy with lots of people coming in to pick out their Christmas tree. Many of the visitors I saw were from Massachusetts and had driven north to pick up a New Hampshire grown tree. Of course for some, it may have only been a ten minute drive across the border.

The garden center was decked out in holiday attire both inside and out presenting a very festive atmosphere.

Even though the parking lot was quite busy, many customers did not venture inside after loading their trees into their trucks or on their roofs. This was their loss as there were many holiday gift ideas inside, in addition to the fresh meats, produce, dairy products and baked goods that were part of the farmers market.

Poinsettias always brighten any room

In the greenhouse, these container cherry tomatoes looked ripe for the picking

Who doesn't like chocolates?

There were lots of root vegetables. Since I had never tried a black spanish radish before the vendor let me take one home for free. It can be eaten sliced fresh in a salad, or cooked to add flavor to soups and stews. They are also known for their medicinal properties in aiding digestion.

Black Spanish Radish. Simply peel, slice and enjoy!

Of course the best part of visiting farmers markets is preparing and enjoying the food once you get home. That night we had stuffed acorn squash with rice, kale and maple toasted walnuts, with fresh greens and sourdough bread.