“Asparagus inspires gentle thoughts.”
—Charles Lamb (1775–1834, English Critic)

Asparagus at the Union Square Farmers Market.

Asparagus at the Union Square Farmers Market.

I have been shopping at the Union Square Farmers Market for more than 34 years. It is my favorite place to buy fruits, vegetables, bread, flowers, cheese, pasta, wine, etc., etc., etc. Most vendors have their operations within a 125-mile radius of New York City; the products sold are local and fresh. The Union Square Farmers Market sets-up shop four days of the week; they are Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Union Square is the second square on the Five Squares and a Circle Tour.

Asparagus at the Union Square Farmers Market.

“The strawberry is the wonder of all the fruits growing naturally in those parts. In some parts where the Natives have planted, I have many times seen as many as would fill a good ship, within a few miles compass.”
—Roger Williams (1603–1683, founder Providence, RI, 1636)

Strawberries at the Union Square Farmers Market.

Strawberries at the Union Square Farmers Market.

At this time of year, strawberries and asparagus are the featured produce. I could make a meal of just these two items. Simply steamed asparagus with butter and seasoned with salt and pepper is my favorite way to prepare them. There is no better way to eat strawberries than directly out of the quart container. What a delicious time of year this is!

Strawberries at the Union Square Farmers Market.