Farmer's markets are a great place to get the freshest produce New Hampshire has to offer. There more than 40 markets in the state and they are all fun places to meet local growers and get some great food. To find one near you, I suggest checking out the list of farmers markets in the state published by the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets and Food.
Recipe: Rice Salad with Tomatoes and CucumbersWhen you go to a farmers market in the summer, you will likely find tomatoes for sale. There are two types of tomatoes that are found at the farmers market: hybrids and heirlooms. They also come in many different sizes and colors. Ask your farmer which tomato is the best to use in your next recipe or which one is best for eating in terms of flavor and sweetness.
Rice Salad with Tomatoes and Cucumbers
Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 cup
Ingredients
2 cups brown rice, cooked
1 medium cucumber, chopped
3 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup low-fat Italian salad dressing
1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Directions:
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Cook brown rice according to package directions and then put into a bowl.
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Wash cucumber and tomatoes.
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Cut cucumber into quarters and then into bite size pieces. Add to brown rice.
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Cut tomatoes into quarters and scoop out seeds with a spoon or your hand. Dice into medium size pieces. Add to the bowl.
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Peel and chop onion. Add to the bowl.
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Add salad dressing and dried dill, if using. Toss until all ingredients are coated with dressing.
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Chill and serve.
For variety, try adding different vegetables like peppers or zucchini. Use whole-wheat couscous or barley instead of the brown rice. Try balsamic dressing instead of Italian dressing.
Part of my internship with UNH Cooperative Extension involves creating educational videos on how to pick the freshest produce at farmers markets and then how to make a delicious dish with it. I had a blast combining my love of cooking and education to help people eat healthier. Below is my video on tomatoes. Enjoy!
