Farmer Market Finds: The Husk Tomato

After work this evening I headed to the local Farmer's Market in Mattapoisett, Ma.  I love fresh sweet corn and it is getting to the end of the season in New England so it was a must to grab a few ears.  While I was there I came across a carton of Husk Tomatoes! I love these little fruits.  These come out in late summer and are also known as Ground Cherries, Dwarf Cape Gooseberries or Strawberry Tomatoes. As you see below they have a papery looking husk that reminds me of a paper Chinese lantern!

 The main purpose of the husk is to be able to tell them apart from a poisonous form that do not have a husk.  Once peeled from their husk you will find a small fruit inside about the size of a grape.  The flavor is one you will have to taste for yourself but I would have to say it is a cross between a cherry tomato and some type of sweet fruit, I can say one thing, Delish!

I have bought these a few times now and never seem to actually cook with them nor add them to a salad.  They are just so good on their own we always end up eating them before I can even think of what to do with them!

Sauteed Squash - Farmer's Market

This time of year one of my favorite things to do is to go to the local Farmer's Market that is held every Sunday on the lawn of Fairhaven High School. All the produce is locally grown and extremely fresh and flavorful. This week I came across Zucchini Balls that I just had to try.  I also grabbed a couple summer squash to go with them.

I decided to saute them on the stove while my husband was busy on the grill cooking our citrus marinated chicken tenderloins. I began by slicing the squashes and heating about 3 tablespoons of oil on the oven.  Next I added the squash to the heated oil and added 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning and salt and pepper to taste. I covered and let simmer for roughly 10 to 15 minutes checking frequently.  I then added two tablespoons of margarine and continued to cook covered for about another 10 minutes. 

You do not want to over cook the squash as it will just turn to mush.  This is why cooking time can vary depending how thickly you cut the slices, so always keep a close eye on it while cooking. We now have the perfect veggie to add to our citrus marinated chicken and garlic mashed potatoes! 

As always, ENJOY!