PICKS OF THE WEEK

12/22/05

Sweet carrots Wow, are the carrots sweet right now! The sugar content tends to really concentrate with these colder nights we have been having. Packed with vitamin A, calcium pectate and disease-fighting flavonoids, they are a very nutritious snack to eat throughout your day. I like my food hot this time of year and carrots are the perfect addition to soups, stews, and are amazing when roasted. Combine peeled and sliced carrots to a baking dish and toss with drizzled olive oil, freshly chopped thyme, minced garlic, sea salt and pepper to taste and place in a 425-degree oven uncovered for about 35 minutes. Turn occasionally. Available, loose or by the bunch at all farmers markets.

Dandelion greens If you're looking to kick up the nutritional content of your diet, dandelion greens are a great addition. They are great suppliers of vitamins A and C as well as calcium, fiber and even protein. They are excellent when lightly tossed with sautˇed onions, garlic and olive oil or chopped into salads or added to soups. Grown organically by Givens farm, Goleta Valley organics and McGrath Organic Farm and available at all local markets. $1 to $1.25 per bunch.

Sugared walnuts If you're a Gorgonzola salad fan, then you know that sugared walnuts are a highly complimentary addition. Oliver Family Farm roasts its freshly harvested walnuts in brown sugar and butter to yield an exceptional flavor, still harnessing the natural flavor of the walnut. I typically top my fresh mixed greens, diced tomatoes, shredded carrot, freshly sliced red onion and Gorgonzola (or feta) cheese with these delicious nuts, all tossed in my favorite balsamic vinaigrette. Available at the Saturday market only. Prices range depending on the size.

-- Sam Edelman, general manager of Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Markets Association

Find out when local farmers markets are held in the Culinary Calendar.