Category: Side Dish

Cooking from the Farmer’s Market by Weldon Owen Inc. copyright 2010

I think summer is officially over.  We were “Up North” in Wisconsin this past weekend and the tree tops had a touch of color just like paint on the tips of a brush.  There were some beautiful red and oranges already.  We did see some sweet corn for sale though.  This recipe is for when your eyes are bigger than your families appetites’ and you have a few ears of corn leftover.  Making risotto is for the patient person.  You can’t rush it.  Be prepared to spend 1/2 hour at the stove.  Most likely this is a weekend side dish. Heat the broth before starting. You can follow the directions on the rice package for adding the broth.

Risotto with Fresh Corn and Basil Oil page 173

2-3 ears of corn, husks and silk removed.  Kernels stripped from the cob.

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup thinly sliced leeks, white and pale green parts.  – Don’t forget to rinse well.

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 1/2 cups short grain rice – I used Arborio

Salt and freshly ground pepper

2 Tablespoons chives – which I forgot to add

4 Tablespoons Basil Oil page 262 – 1/2 cup of fresh basil chopped + 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil OR you can find Basil Oil at your local specialty store.

Add the broth per the rice directions.

The cookbook is a great addition to your library.  It has colorful pictures and lists several unique recipes for each fruit or vegetable you would find at your local farmer’s market or in your garden.  The book is divided into chapters based on similar vegetables or fruits, such as Leafy Greens, Squashes, and Stone Fruits.  There are several recipes for each item grouped together.  You can find the book on Amazon or there are several copies through our local library system.

Bonus RECIPE – Yellow Squash and Farro Salad page 113

You can see below on the left the original recipe and on the right my substitutions based on what was in the pantry and the refrigerator. I also cut the recipe in half since I am only cooking for two. I loved the flavor combination with the fresh mint and basil.

Visit a farmer’s market this weekend to support your local farmer and try a new vegetable or fruit !!