BALLSTON FARMERS MARKET

Two Belles Southern Pound Cakes Returns TODAY!

2011-06-02T10:10:00.001-04:00

Yay! After a long winter, Two Belle's Southern Pound Cakes returns THIS Thursday, June 2nd, to the Ballston Farmers Market from 3-7 PM!

Sold in slices and whole cakes, these pound cakes are baked by fantastic southern gals who know their pound cake.

FREE Eco-Friendly Tote Bags TOMORROW!

2011-06-01T21:10:00.001-04:00

Don't forget to pick up your FREE eco-friendly tote bag at the Ballston Farmers Market THIS THURSDAY, June 2nd!

The first 50 visitors get one absolutely FREE! Our friends at ArlingtonVirginia.com, Arlington’s Social Media Community, will be on hand for tomorrow to hand them out.

Now, you'll have something cool to carry all of the awesome goodies you buy at the Market.

The Ballston Farmers Market - TODAY!

2011-05-24T15:22:00.002-04:00

Don't forget! The Ballston Farmers Market returns to Welburn Square (aka The Ballston Circle) for its Grand Opening TODAY, May 26th, then EVERY THURSDAYfrom 3 - 7 PM until October.

Let's all welcome back market favorites, like Great Harvest Bread Company,Two Belle's Southern Pound Cakes, Gonzales Produce and Caf é Pacaya. And, give a big Ballston greeting to newcomers, Pleasant Pops and Milk Crate Bakery. Plus, many others!

Opening Day will also feature live music by singer/songwriter, René Moffatt, from 4 - 6 PM.

The Ballston Farmers Market makes it easy to pick up your fresh fruits, crispy veggies, mouth-watering breads and pastries, exotic fine teas & coffees and much more.

See you soon!

Ballston Patch Article on the Ballston Farmers Market!

2011-05-17T14:37:00.001-04:00

I love when the Ballston Patch shows us some love. Check out their awesome article announcing the Grand Opening of the Ballston Farmers Market.

http://ballston.patch.com/articles/ballston-farmers-market-season-opener

Get pshyched, folks. Fresh veggies, crisp fruits, delcious patries, gourmet teas & coffees, pound cakes, ice pops, and so much more are on their way to Ballston's Welburn Square in less than 2 weeks. Mark Thursday, May 26th on your calendars -- 3 - 7PM!

See you there!

(Photo courtesy of the Ballston Patch.)

Introducing TommyV's Salsa

2011-05-13T14:47:00.000-04:00

We are proud to announce our newest addition to the Ballston Farmers Market this season: TommyV's Salsa!

TommyV’s Salsa is a freshly made salsa that doesn’t taste like your “ordinary” fresh salsa you’ll find at your local grocery store. TommyV's has the perfect blend of fruits, vegetables and spices.

With no artificial flavors and no artificial preservatives, this delicious salsa will stimulate your taste buds with a blast of exhilarating flavor. Enjoy the homemade taste of fresh salsa made from natural quality ingredients!

TommyV's Salsa joins the Farmers Market starting Thursday, May 26th--our Opening Day!

The Ballston Farmers Market - Grand Opening on May 26th!

2011-05-12T09:44:00.000-04:00

The Ballston Farmers Market returns to Welburn Square (aka The Ballston Circle) for its Grand Opening on May 26th, then EVERY THURSDAY from 3 - 7 PM until October.

Let's all welcome back market favorites, like Great Harvest Bread Company, Two Belle's Southern Pound Cakes, Gonzales Produce and Caf é Pacaya. And, give a big Ballston greeting to newcomers, Pleasant Pops and Milk Crate Bakery. Plus, many others!

Opening Day will also feature live music by singer/songwriter, René Moffatt, from 4 - 6 PM.

The Ballston Farmers Market makes it easy to pick up your fresh fruits, crispy veggies, mouth-watering breads and pastries, exotic fine teas & coffees and much more.

See you soon!

Introducing Milk Crate Bakery!

2011-04-11T16:43:00.001-04:00

Get ready for artisan chocolates, truffles and cupcakes courtesy of the Ballston Farmers Market's newest addition -- Milk Crate Bakery! They will be joining the Ballston Farmers Market every Thursdays starting May 26th!

Milk Crate Bakery is an artisan bakery based in Arlington, VA. They make our baked goods in small batches to preserve and focus on quality. Using the freshest ingredients, they ensure satisfyingly bold flavors. Yum!

Culinary Herb Farm Returns

2011-04-11T14:37:00.002-04:00

Ballston Farmers Market favorite, The Culinary Herb Farm, returns this season with their fresh, organic herb mixes, herb sugars, salts, herb infused olive oils and vinegars -- All grown and mixed locally at their farm in Fairfax, Virginia.

Like owner/chef Kim Kresge's says "Eat. More. Dill."

ArlingtonVIrginia.com & The Ballston Farmers Market

2011-03-16T15:10:00.001-04:00

This is so cool! Look what our friends over at ArlingtonVirginia.com did for us. They created a site specially devoted to the Ballston Farmers Market to help promote our local farmers and producers!

Check it out: http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=3696246784430809648

ArlingtonVirginia.com and its Social Media Team's mission is to Drive Revenue, Create Awareness, and Connect Businesses within the Arlington community. Look for ARL-deals for great coupons and discounts from your local businesses. Meet your neighbors around town at events, festivities and enter Contests to win great prizes! All in one place - ArlingtonVirginia.com!

Thanks so much guys!

Cafe Pacaya Returns!

2011-03-11T16:57:00.000-05:00

Good news, coffee lovers! Cafe Pacaya returns to the Ballston Farmers Market for an entire season starting May 26th!

Cafe Pacaya is now your source for premium roasted, single-origin coffee. Their mission is to offer gourmet coffee-drinkers a coffee that communicates its unique flavor characteristics. They do this by roasting in small batches and carefully controlling the process.

Happy! Happy!

ArlingtonVirginia.com!

2011-02-25T10:03:00.008-05:00

Great news! The Ballston Partnership (soon to be the Ballston BID) is excited to announce that we're teaming up with ArlingtonVirginia.com to make our markets even bigger and better this season!

ArlingtonVirginia.com is a Social Media website designed to connect Arlingtonians to their Community, drive awareness to Arlington Businesses, and be the place to get it all especially to Eat. Play. Dine, and Live in Arlington! Special ARL-deals offer discounts so you can try new things or enjoy your favorite place! Check out their monthly contests--You could win something handmade by a Ballston A&C Market artist!

This is yet another way generous local Arlington businesses are helping to promote the arts in Arlington. Can't wait to work with you guys!

Two Belles Southern Pound Cakes Returning

2011-02-23T12:31:00.000-05:00

Great news, Ballston! Arlington's own, Two Belles Southern Pound Cakes, is back for their second season at the Ballston Farmers Market! And you can bet that they are ready to dish out their famous buttery pound cakes for each and every visitor.

So, put us on your calendars--EVERY Thursday from 3-7 PM we'll be setting up in Welburn Square (aka The Ballston Circle) with delicious fruits & veggies, mouth-watering breads and the best pound cakes you've ever tasted! Just ask any in Ballston.

Opening Day--May 26th!

More vendor announcements to come!

New Vendor Alert: Pleasant Pops!

2011-02-15T13:34:00.004-05:00

This season, the Ballston Farmers Market returns with your favorite farmers and bakers, like Great Harvest Bread Company and Baguette Republic. And introducing a new face in Welburn Square--Pleasant Pops!

After experimenting with flavors in the kitchen for a year, Pleasant Pops sold their first pop in July 2010 and now have over 40 flavors of Mexican-inspired paletas, all of which are original recipes made from locally sourced fresh fruit, veggies, herbs and dairy. Now you can find Pleasant Pops at the Ballston Farmers Market and visit their truck, “Big Poppa,” (follow them on twitter @pleasantpops for locations), around the District.

Let's give Pleasant Pops a big Ballston welcome come Thursday, May 26th! Their fruit-filled ice pops will be the perfect pick-me-up this summer.

Introducing the 2011 Postcard!

2011-01-25T11:33:00.000-05:00

10 Advantages to Going to a Farmer’s Market

2011-01-24T16:31:00.002-05:00

Thanks Keith, from LawnCareService.net for the article!

Perhaps you’re one of those who have never bought your food anywhere except in a grocery store. You are used to buying everything from raw vegetables to toilet paper all in one place. You are used to air conditioned aisles and computerized checkouts. The thought of going to a farmer’s market to purchase your fresh foods may seem like nothing more than adding an extra step to your grocery shopping. Those who shop at farmer’s markets on a regular basis would tell you differently. Below we will list ten of the advantages of shopping at a farmer’s market that you may not have been aware of.

1. Fresh = longer lasting. You may think of the fruits and vegetables at your grocery store as being fresh when you see the produce being loaded onto the displays from crates, but how fresh is it really? Where was it shipped from? Halfway across the country probably. In some cases it comes from another country. It’s been picked, packaged and shipped to a warehouse. Then it is shipped from the warehouse to the grocery stores.

At a farmer’s market you will often see signs telling you when the produce was picked from the farmer’s fields. Usually the signs will say picked yesterday or picked this morning. That is what fresh should mean. Because this food has not spent time in the shipping process before you buy it, the food will stay fresh for that much longer.

2. Taste. This is one the biggest reasons people buy produce at farmer’s markets. The difference in the taste between the tomatoes, carrots and strawberries found in a farmer’s market compared to what you would buy in a grocery store is hard to believe until you actually eat one right after another. Their just seems to be much more flavor in the locally grown items.

3. More than vegetables. If you think all that you’ll find at a farmer’s market is vegetables, you’re quite wrong. In addition to the vegetables you’ll often find fruit, flowers, preserves, herbs and farm grown pork and beef products.

4. No need for reading labels. We’ve become accustomed to reading labels to find out the details about what we are buying in the grocery store. No need for this at the farmer’s market. If you have any questions about what you’re buying, you can simply ask the vendor selling the products. They’ll be able to tell you where and how the produce has been grown and what the animals graced on for the meat products.

5. Variety. Yes, you’ll find a variety of different products but the variety goes beyond that. Instead of simply finding ‘carrots’, for instance, you may find many different varieties of carrots. Even purple carrots can be found in addition to the traditional orange ones. Many different varieties of tomatoes, corn, squash, onions, beans etc.

6. Quantity. If you are looking for large quantities of produce for canning or freezing, the farmer’s market is the perfect place to shop. Many fine restaurant’s do their shopping for produce at farmer’s market for this reason, in addition to the high quality of products to be found.

7. Support local growers. By shopping your local farmer’s market, you are putting money back into the local economy and assisting your local growers in their ability to continue providing their products to you.

8. Learning experience. The vendors at a farmer’s market have a wealth of information about their product that they can share with you. They can explain the difference between the different species of a product such as which tomatoes are best canning and which are better eaten fresh. Often times they can also give you new ideas and recipes for the preparation of their produce.

9. Organic food without organic prices. In order for food to be labeled as organic, farmers are required to follow certain procedures and have those procedures documented by government agencies. Many times you will find that much of the food sold at farmer’s markets is grown organically even when it isn’t labeled as such. The only way to know for certain is to ask the growers about methods used on their farm.

10. Community. As you begin to make the farmer’s market a regular part of your shopping routine, you will begin to get to know the different growers and perhaps some of the other patrons shopping there. The atmosphere itself is much relaxed and conducive to building relationships between growers and their customers.

In these days where we spend so much time rushing from one place to another looking for convenience in everything we do, the farmer’s market is great place to slow down and make some wise and healthy choices for our families.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T13:52:00.001-05:00

We at the Ballston Partnership (soon to be Ballston BID!) want to wish everyone a very safe and Happy New Year's celebration.

May all of your New Years dreams and resolutions come true. Here's to 2011!

Ballston BID Press Release!

2010-12-13T14:49:00.001-05:00

Announcing the Ballston Business Improvement District

The Ballston Partnership just celebrated it's 25th Anniversary at the October Annual Meeting. Now the Partnership has something else to celebrate this year.

On Saturday, the Arlington County Board unanimously approved the establishment of the Ballston Business Improvement District (BID) effective January 1, 2011. The BID is a public/private partnership in which property and business owners contribute to the maintenance, development and promotion of a commercial district.

The BID will ensure that Ballston property owners have additional resources to keep Ballston competitive, attractive and sustainable in an increasingly competitive commercial real estate environment.

"The reality of a Ballston BID is a huge success that was only possible due to a great Steering Committee, community input and a lot of hard work," said Kelly Shooshan, Vice President of Development of The Shooshan Company. "As President of the Ballston Partnership for the past three years, it has been a challenge to accomplish our vision with limited funding but with Pamela Kahn's leadership of the Partnership she has shown our Board and Community what can be accomplished with minimal staff and budget so I am excited to see what she will be able to accomplish as the Ballston BID."

The Ballston BID's primary focus will be to move the perception of Ballston from a "good place" to a "great place", enhance and communicate Ballston's commercial advantages in an increasingly competitive County/region, increase and protect private and public investment in Ballston's commercial properties, create, manage and sustain Ballston as the premier mixed-use urban environment in the County, and promote Ballston's brand as an internationally recognized hub for science and technology.

Activities will include marketing, branding and promotion, community events, minor physical enhancements such as banners and wayfinding and beautification and transportation enhancements including bike racks, shelters and more.

The Ballston BID includes 119 commercial properties, approximately 8.3 million square feet of development, and more than 118 acres.

Pound Cakes & Whoopie Pies THIS Thursday at the National Science Foundation

2010-11-29T11:25:00.008-05:00

Did you hear, food aficionados? The Ballston Partnership's having a Holiday Boutique THIS Thursday and two of your favorite Ballston Farmers Market vendors will be there!

Get your sweet-tooth fix THIS Thursday at the National Science Foundation first-floor atrium from 11:00 AM - 6:00 P

M. You'll find:

Two Belle's Southern Pound Cakes returns to the neighborhood to join us at the Ballston Holiday Artist Boutique. Because a good pound cake is a work of art. Sold in slices (for only $2.00!) and whole cakes (for your holiday parties!), these pound cakes are baked by fantastic southern gals who know their pound cake.

And B. Hall Baker will also be on hand to debut some brand-new flavors. Come sample the pies, buy some on the spot and then order a bunch of these little delicacies for your Holiday parties.

Yum! Yum!

Today's Market is Canceled!

2010-10-14T11:56:00.003-04:00

Today's Ballston Farmers Market is CANCELED. Stupid weather... grumble, grumble. Thanks for a great season, everybody!

We'll be back next year, same time, same place--starting May 26th.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL FARMERS!

Local Foods Local Chefs THIS Thursday!

2010-10-12T16:57:00.000-04:00

The Virginia Cooperative Extension program, Local Food Local Chefs, joins the Market this Thursday with chef Andy Bennett from Lyon Hall. Bennet will lead a group of patrons around the market from 6 - 6:30 PM to demonstrate how he uses fresh foods in his recipes.

Open to everyone. Free of charge.

Sweet Bites Creamery Flavors of the Week

2010-10-05T14:11:00.006-04:00

Sweet Bites Creamery, the newest member of the Ballston Farmers Market, brings the freshest flavors of handcrafted ice cream sandwiches to Welburn Square THIS Thursday from 3:00-7:00!

Molasses Caramelized Pear (chewy molasses cookie with fresh caramelized pear ice cream)

Uptown Banana (chewy choclate chunk cookies with fresh banana ice cream)

Baked Apple Snickerdoodles (baked apple ice cream paired with classic snickerdoodles)
Peanut Butter Mud Pies (chewy chocolate cookies with fudge cookie & peanut butter ice cream)
Pistachio Chocolate Cherry Macaron (pistachio french macaron with chocolate-cherry sherbert)

Just. Plain. Yummy.

Market Canceled - September 30th!

2010-09-30T09:18:00.002-04:00

Due to ominous weather predictions, we have made the difficult decision to close the Farmers Market TODAY, September 30th. Safely is our main concern and the heavy winds they are forecasting can be very dangerous in the square.

But visit us next Thursday from 3-7 for your weekly goodies!

RESCHEDULED! Celebrate Farm to Table Month!

2010-09-28T11:49:00.004-04:00

RESCHEDULED!

Thanks to the stinky weather forecast for tomorrow, The Ballston Farmers Market celebrates From Farm to Table Month two weeks from now--October 14th!

Come join us October 14th.

Sweet Bites Creamery Joins Us THIS Thursday!

2010-09-22T07:15:00.003-04:00

Yah! We have a new addition to the Ballston Farmers Market! Please welcome Sweet Bite Creamery, a DC-based bakery and ice creamery specializing in handcrafted, uniquely flavored ice cream sandwiches and confections. Thier passion is to create artful products with all-natural, local ingredients.

This week's flavors...

Chocolate Chunk Banana: gooey chocolate chunk cookies paired with fresh banana ice cream
Raspberry Lemonade Macaron: raspberry french macaron filled with tangy meyer lemon ice cream
Salted Caramel Brownie: chewy chocolate brownies filled creamy salted caramel ice cream
Chocolate Mint Macaron: chocolate cocoa french macaron paired with fresh, local mint ice cream
Macadamia Coconut: chocolate dipped macadamia nut shortbread with toasted coconut ice cream

Swing by the Ballston Farmers Market this Thursday to experience the best ice-cream sandwiches in town!

René Moffatt Music

2010-09-17T11:52:00.005-04:00

I'm proud to announce a new musician who'll be joining the Ballston Farmers Market Septemeber 16, 23 & October 7--René Moffatt!

René's smooth vocals, swaying melodies and thoughtful lyrics are a welcome addition to our final markets of the season, so let's give him a warm Ballston welcome.

Check out René music online! And while your at it, download some FREE tunes by the man himself. Let's support our local musicians as well as our local farmers!

New Vendor Alert: Cafe Pacaya!

2010-09-03T08:00:00.006-04:00

If you love coffee, you are going to LOVE our new market addition. Please welcome Cafe Pacaya to the Ballston Farmers Market!

Cafe Pacaya is now your source for premium roasted, single-origin coffee. Their mission is to offer gourmet coffee-drinkers a coffee that communicates its unique flavor characteristics. They do this by roasting in small batches and carefully controlling the process.

Straight from Guatemala, then roasted right here in the Metro area, direct to your mug. This is what good mornings are all about.

A Great Thursday!

2010-08-20T11:55:00.008-04:00

After all this Thursday rain, it was awesome to have warm, sunny weather at the Ballston Farmers Market. Is was such a great day, in fact, many of our farmers sold out! Perhaps it's a good idea to arrive early next time.

Remember, our hours are from 3:00-7:00 every Thursday afternoon. And fruit season has finally arrived!

Check out some mouth-watering shots from yesterday's Market:

See you next Thursday!

B. Hall, Baker

2010-08-18T13:02:00.005-04:00

Due to circumstances beyond their control, B. Hall Baker lost their commercial kitchen very suddenly, so this Thursday, August 19th, will be their last market for a little while. They found a great, new kitchen and are hoping to be back as soon as possible.

Until then, please visit their website for the same delicious whoppie pies you've been enjoying at the Market

Photo Contest Ends Tomorrow-August 18th!

2010-08-17T17:40:00.018-04:00

Hey! Tomorrow is the last day to submit your photos in to the Virginia Farmers' Market Photo Contest the Virginia of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACA) is hosting!

The winners will receive a Virginia Grown/Virginia's Finest prize package worth $100 each. Four winners will be announced.

One for entries from children up to age 12
One for entries from youth ages 13 - 20
One for entries from adults ages 21 and up

And, a special prize will be awarded to the Virginia farmers' market with the most entries. Go to www.VirginiaGrown.com for more information!

Calm Before the Storm!

2010-08-06T12:03:00.006-04:00

Before the thunderstorm hit on Thursday, (and boy, did it hit hard!) the farmers were able to set up shop for a couple hours at least. Come visit us next Thursday from 3-7 for all of your fresh-off-the-farm goodies!

See you next week!

Hank's Blueberries

2010-07-30T13:02:00.007-04:00

It's blueberry season! And while blueberry season is in full swing, Hank's Blueberries will be at the Ballston Farmers Market. His delicious and completely organic blueberries have to be tasted to be believed!

Sweet, juicy and perfect, entire pints are only $5 each.

Two Belles Southern Pound Cakes Returns!

2010-07-26T19:48:00.010-04:00

I just returned from Charleston, South Carolina and one of the best things I noticed about the South is their amazing food. The butter, the fish, the all-natural ingredients--they just don't skimp on anything good. And that's the way I like it.

So, it makes me (and hopefully you, too!) really happy that Two Belle's Southern Pound Cakes returns THIS Thursday, August 29th, to the Ballston Farmers Market!

Sold in slices (for only $2.00!) and whole cakes, these pound cakes are baked by fantastic southern gals who know their pound cake.

Singer/songwriter Janna Audey

2010-07-19T15:22:00.007-04:00

Did you know that every Thursday the Ballston Farmers Market has FREE live music for all to enjoy? And each month until October, the Market features a new musician.

For the month of July, we are very proud to have singer/songwriter, Janna Audey perfrom her beautiful, soulful tunes.

Check out Janna Audey melodic music LIVE every Thursday from 4:00pm - 6:00pm (whether permitting) for the entire month of July!

Food for Thought at the Ballston Farmers Market!

2010-07-15T21:03:00.015-04:00

A couple weeks ago, Arlington Virginia Network popped by the Ballston Farmers Market to film an episode of their Emmy-nominated TV show, Food for Thought. So, without further ado ...

Thanks Matt, Katie and the entire crew of Food for Thought. We had a blast!

Egglants & Radishes & More ... Oh, My!

2010-07-14T08:28:00.005-04:00

Wow. Have you ever seen radishes so red or eggplants so purple? They look almost too good to be true! But, we can assure you, everything about the veggies from Barajas Produce are authentic, healthy and fresh off the farm!

Stock up on some fresh produce TOMORROW from 3-7 at the Ballston Farmers Market.

Jimmy Potter's Workshop - Cactus Fun!

2010-07-06T10:39:00.006-04:00

Man. It seems like the only plants that will grow in this NOVA heat lately are cacti. Good thing the Ballston Farmers Market has the cactus guy himself--Jimmy Potter's Workshop!

Swing by the Ballston Farmers Market this Thursday from 3:00-7:00 and buy a cactus or two for your office, home, or even garden--this 103-degree weather won't bother these prickly plants! Simply water these bad boys once a week and watch them blossom.

What a Success!

2010-07-02T11:05:00.007-04:00

What a great day at the July 3rd Ballston Farmers Market. The weather was so pretty and there were tons of people out shopping for healthy goodies.

And special thanks goes out to Arlington Virginia Network's, Food for Thought, for spending the day with us. We had fun answering all of your questions and just hanging out. I'll keep everyone posted as to when the show will air.

Now, check out some pics from yesterday's Market!

Bentley, the Golden Retriever puppy says, "See you next Thursday!"

Team In Training Joins the Ballston Farmers Market!

2010-06-30T11:37:00.006-04:00

The Ballston Farmers Market is proud to announce that Team In Training, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s signature national fundraising initiative, will be joining the Market July 8th and August 5th!

Team In Training trains over 1,000 athletes in the area each year in preparation for a number of marathons, half-marathons, triathlons, and century rides. In return, our participants raise money for their cause.

Welcome to Welburn Square, guys. Ballston's happy to have you!

Yesterday's Market

2010-06-25T11:32:00.006-04:00

It was a bIt was a beautiful day at the Farmers Market yesterday. It looks like all of those crazy weather warnings were indeed crazy! We got a couple of sprinkles in the square with no hail to speak of. And the wind... nice breezes.

So, join us next Thursday and say hi to your returning favorites as well as some new vendors who will be joining us July 1. (I'll keep you posted about the newbies!) See you at the Market!

Thanks to The Arlington Weekly News!

2010-06-20T17:14:00.010-04:00

I just wanted to thank Rich Massabny for giving our Farmers Market (and Arts & Crafts Market!) a great shout out on his TV show, Arlington Weekly News.

Check it out on YouTube!

We All Scream for Ice Cream!

2010-06-16T16:13:00.011-04:00

We have a new addition to the Ballston Farmers Market! I'm proud to announce that Middleburg Creamery is returning to the 2010 Market starting tomorrow, June 17th, with its special recipe of cool, creamy, delicious ice cream.

It's gonna be a hot summer, so get your ice cream fix at the Ballston Farmers Market from 3:00-7:00 EVERY Thursday.

June 10 Famers Market

2010-06-11T10:57:00.007-04:00

Great food, great weather, great music and great company. What a perfect way to spend a Thursday afternoon.

Hondo's Coffee & Pickles

Hilltop Herbs

Two Belles Southern Pound Cakes

Ballstonites!

Baguette Republic

We'll see you next Thursday!

Two Belles Souther Pound Cakes

2010-06-09T10:42:00.005-04:00

"What do you get when you cross two displaced southern girls, an old KitchenAid mixer and a heap of baking know-how? A whole lot of pound cake — really good pound cake!"

Starting, tomorrow, June 10, Two Belles Southern Pound Cakes will be joining the Ballston Farmers Market!

These are NOT factory cakes, folks. These are artisan pound cakes crafted by two “belles” who love to bake with the kind of natural ingredients their own grandmothers used: pure unsalted butter, high quality flour, cream or whole milk, eggs, sugar and a bit of fine extract for marvelous flavor.

With a bunch of different flavors and frosty colors, these pound cakes are simplicity at its best.

Good. Traditional. Southern. Pound Cakes. Which means no skimping on the butter.

Blues Musician Rick Franklin

2010-06-08T12:16:00.005-04:00

Not only does the Ballston Farmers Market have fresh produce, scrumptious pastries, buttery pound cakes, fluffy whoopie pies, organic herb mixes, raw honey, fine teas and more, we also have live music!

Acoustic blues musician and songster extraordinaire, Rick Franklin, will perform exclusively for the Ballston Farmers Market right here in Welburn Square. Catch him in action every Thursday from 4:00-6:00pm for the entire month on June.

Makin' Whoopie!

2010-06-07T13:52:00.006-04:00

Have you all heard of Whoopie Pies? Well, if you haven't please allow us to introduce you to a little lip-smacking slice of heaven.

Think of a Whoopie Pie as a little fluffy cupcake but in sandwich form. Brilliant, right? And nobody--I mean nobody, knows Whoopie Pies like B. Hall, Baker. In fact, this boutique baker specializes in Whoopie Pies in a variety of seasonal flavors, like French Lemon Cake, Vanilla Bean, Peach Mango, Dark Chocolate, and more.

Each packaged in its own separate wrapping, only the finest ingredients are used to make these Whoopie Pies!

Every Thursday, from 3:00-7:00, B. Hall, Baker plans to bring two different flavors of scrumptious Whoopieness to the Ballston Farmers Market in Welburn Square, along with petite sweet potato pies and fudgey brownies.

Oh, Ballston, we are soooooo lucky.

Farmer Market in June!

2010-06-04T12:08:00.007-04:00

Local photographer and blogger, Abbie Rufener, said it best, "... Heaven is found in local farmers markets." Find fresh and delicious blueberries, peas, cheese pastries, pork products, green bean, potatoes, sour cherries, raw honey, brownies, strawberry muffins, organic herb mixes, whoopie pies and SO much more. Yep. Sounds like Heaven to me.

Check out some pictures from yesterday's Market!

Swing by next Thursday from 3:00-7:00 to experience Heaven in Ballston. :)

Bees 'n Blossoms Honey

2010-06-01T17:06:00.007-04:00

What's sweeter than honey? Nothin! That's why I'm so excited that Bees 'n Blossoms Honey will be joining the Ballston Farmers Market starting this Thursday, June 3!

Bountiful nectar sources exist in the meadows and forests of Virginia's countryside. And Bees 'n Blossoms Honey "keep" their bees using organic principles, natural substances and herbs to deter insect pests and intruders.

Swing by THIS THURSDAY and pick out your

own favorite kind of honey, including herbal honey, creamed honey, and raw honey. They may even bring along some honey candles, jellies and granola bars. Sweeeeeeet.

The Ballston Farmers Market Starts TODAY!

2010-05-27T09:08:00.007-04:00

The first Ballston Farmers Market starts today and I'm kinda excited here! We have tons of juicy fruits and vegetables, organic herb mixes, flaky pastries, fine loose tea, freshly-bakes breads, natural skin & body products and so much more.

It's going to be a beautiful day, so celebrate our inaugural Farmers Market with us from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. Pick up a snack, then dinner for the family.

Every Food Fits Visit the Market

2010-05-24T12:25:00.007-04:00

Hey fellow foodies! Just wanted to pass along some exciting news: While you are shopping for scrumptious fruits, crispy veggies, or delish pastries on May 27th, stop and say hi to local food photographer and blogger, Stacey Viera. She'll be on hand at our inaugural market to chat about her popular blog, Every Food Fits! Yep, I'm excited, too.

The Market is Just Around the Corner!

2010-05-21T15:22:00.015-04:00

The great thing about the new and improved Ballston Farmers Market is that not only are favorites, like Great Harvest Bread Company, TeaCo, and Gonzales Produce back for another season, we also are welcoming newbies, such as B. Hall, Baker (whoopee pies!), Pearl Fine Teas, Pleasant Hill Farm and Two Belles Southern Pound Cakes.

Opening Day, May 27, will also feature live music by acoustic guitarist, Joe Pollock. Plus, local food photographer and blogger, Stacey Viera, will be on hand to chat about her popular blog, Every Food Fits.

Tons of juicy fruits, crisp vegetables, fragrant fine teas, buttery cakes & pastries and even scrumptious whoopee pies await you at the 2010 Ballston Farmers Market.

Got one word for you: Yum.

Spring Has Sprung!

2010-04-06T14:36:00.015-04:00

With the warm weather comes outdoor events, like Arts & Crafts Markets, concerts and of course, The Ballston Farmers Market. And I for one, can hardly wait!

With the day and time change to Thursdays from 3:00-7:00, the Market now opens its proverbial doors to many more community residents as well as commuters hungry for fresh and healthy eats.

This season we'll have tons of juicy fruits and veggies from fabulous local farms, like Gonzales Produce, Barajas Produce & Penn Farm. And we'll have many different cakes, breads and pastries to drool over from Baguette Republic, Grace's Pastries & Great Harvest Bread Company. And did someone say whoopie pies? Yep, we'll have those, too, from B. Hall, Baker!

Bistro Blends of Ashburn will also be on hand with their premium balsamic vinegar, olive oil and marinades. Plus, two alternating tea vendors will visit us in the Square--TeaCo and Pearl Fine Teas take turns at the Market selling their fine loose teas.

Be sure to stay tuned, because there are more vendors to come this season at new & improved The Ballston Farmers Market! My stomach is getting all rumbly just thinking about it!

Times They are A-Changin!

2010-02-09T16:03:00.003-05:00

Hi there! I would like to introduce myself. My name is Jessica Blaszczak, and I am the new Manager of the Ballston Partnership's Farmers Market. Although new to the Farmers Market, I am also the manager of our Arts & Crafts Market.

I can’t express how excited I am to get things rolling this season.

To the existing vendors, I'm psyched to personally meet each and every one of you. Just like Sara, I will be available by email and assist you in any way I can. And to the potential vendors, please don’t be shy. Send us your applications! We are always looking for awesome new vendors.

I only hope I can live up to the great work and dedication in the past, as I plan to make the Ballston Partnership's Farmers Market more successful (and fun!) with each coming year. That's why the time and date has changed to Thursdays from 3:00pm-7:00pm. We believe this time change will bring more people, commuters and locals alike, to the Market to enjoy your quality products.

Feel free to email me at jessica@iloveballston.com with questions, concerns, applications or just to talk food!

Cheers!
Jess

Fresh from the farm produce this week at Ballston Farmers Market

2009-07-28T10:11:00.000-04:00

Fresh from the farms this week will be apricots, nectarines, peaches, plums, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, gooseberries, baby artichokes, beets, cabbage, carrots, sweet corn, eggplants, garlic, green beans, salad mix, watermelons, cantaloupe, French melons, vine ripened heirloom and hybrid tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet and hot peppers, , okra, onions, radishes and more! While you are at the market, pick up a bouquet of lilies from LynnVale Studios. In addition to their beauty and spirit-lifting fragrance, these freshly cut lilies can last for a good two weeks – a great value for cut flowers.

Cherry season ends in July

2009-07-20T11:23:00.000-04:00

Cherry lovers should hurry up to the market for the last chance of getting some sweet juicy cherries, as cherry season ends in July. Also fresh from the farms this week will be green beans, new potatoes, eggplant, beets, and vine ripened heirloom and hybrid tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet and hot peppers, lettuce mix, summer squash and zucchini, sweet corn, peaches, nectarines, plums, berries and raspberries, cherries, seedless watermelons, cantaloupe, apples and more!

Eat Local Recipe Contest

2009-07-14T11:07:00.000-04:00

Got a recipe? Submit to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) the original recipes you used to prepare your favorite locally grown and produced fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, and dairy products, along with a photo of you and/or your completed dish for a chance to win one of two Virginia Grown/Virginia’s Finest prize packages, one for adults and one for kids up to age 12. Eligible recipes and photos will be posted on the Virginia Grown Website.

The winners will be chosen by random drawing from all eligible recipe/photo entries received by VDACS no later than August 15, 2009. No purchase necessary to win.

Two prize packages of Virginia Grown produce and Virginia’s Finest products, each valued at $100, will be given away.

E-mail your recipes and photos to EatLocalVa@vdacs.virginia.gov or mail them to Eat Local Recipe Contest, VDACS, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond VA 23218. The drawings will be held no later than Friday, August 28, 2009. Read complete details in the accompanying rules here.

Red Apron Butcher Shop Considered "Best of Washington" by The Washingtonian's

2009-07-07T09:34:00.001-04:00

First appeared in The Washingtonian's July 2009 Best of Washington issue, Red Apron Butcher Shop was recognized again in the July 6 Best Bites Blog of Washingtonian.com. Chef Nathan Anda's authentic hand cut and house cured meats are considered by the magazine one of the best Farmers Market Finds. Try their famous hot dogs, pastrami and bacon at the Ballston Farmers Market. Read more here.

Market is Open This Friday (July 3rd)

2009-07-01T13:21:00.000-04:00

Tyson's Farms and Great Harvest Bread will bring farm fresh fruits and vegetables and artisan baked goods this Friday (July 3) to Ballston Farmers Market. Happy July 4th!

The Color Purple

2009-06-23T11:33:00.000-04:00

Do you like purple? You should. At least when it comes to vegetables and fruits, because, believe it or not, they have high nutritional value. Anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the purple color, are a potent phytonutrient in the flavonoids family that have potential disease-fighting benefits. The Ballston Farmers Market has a great selection of purple-hued items such as purple cabbage, purple cauliflowers, and blueberries (considered one of the most concentrated natural sources of anthocyanins). Soon it will also have purple corn on the cob! Visit us at Welburn Square in downtown Ballston (Arlington, VA) on Fridays from 11:00am-3:00pm.
Source: Farmers’ Markets Today, May/June 2009

Exquisite hand grown chocolate from Fleurir

2009-06-14T14:35:00.001-04:00

How can you hand grow chocolate? Turns out Fleurir has a way to do just that and do it beautifully. A new vendor at the Ballston Farmers Market, Fleurir brings exquisite hand crafted confections made with the finest locally sourced ingredients coupled with artisan techniques to produce exciting, refreshing, and contemporary chocolates. It is not just food, it is also art!

Oven-Fried Pork Chops That You Can Easily Make At Home

2009-06-07T23:47:00.000-04:00

I found this recipe at http://www.porkchoprecipes.net/ and tried it at home with the grass-fed pork I bought from Buffalo Ridge Farm on the Opening Day of the Ballston Farmers Market. The result is quite successful (as you can tell from the photo). One thing to keep in mind is, due to its lower fat content compared to conventional meat, grass-fed meat should be cooked for less time and at a lower temperature. I have adjusted the original recipe to reflect this healthy feature of all natural grass-fed pork. Try it and you will love it!

Ingredients:
4 trimmed pork chops.
1 medium egg.
1 cup of breadcrumbs.
3 tablespoons of soy sauce.
1 tablespoon of water.
½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
Pinch of ground ginger.

Preparation Instructions:
Beat the egg, soy sauce, water, ginger and garlic powder together in a pie plate.

Sprinkle breadcrumbs on waxed paper.

Dip the pork chops into the egg mixture, then breadcrumbs; coating evenly on each side.

Arrange in single layer on greased jelly roll pan.

Bake at 300°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.

Turn and bake for another 20 minutes until the chops are tender and no longer pink.

Ballston Farmers Market Opening Day This Friday!

2009-05-27T16:43:00.000-04:00

Join us this Friday for the Opening Day of the Ballston Farmers Market. Sixteen vendors have signed up for the 2009 market season. Together they will bring seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh-cut flowers and container herbs, all-natural fresh and cured meats, artisan baked goods, specialty foods including handmade chocolate, sparkling apple cider, apple butter and spreads, apple cider vinegar, and much more! Plus, live music from Noon to 2:00pm.

2009-04-09T16:47:00.001-04:00

The preparation for the 2009 Ballston Farmers Market is coming along successfully. We already have a great line-up of vendors offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh-cut flowers, artisan baked-goods and meats, and gourmet treats! View the full list of vendors on the right of the page.

All-time Favorites and New Vendors Bring Choices and Flavor to Ballston Farmers Market

2009-03-26T15:28:00.000-04:00

We are excited to announce that over ten vendors have already signed up for the 2009 Ballston Farmers Market. It'll be another great year! The ever-popular Great Harvest Bread Co., Tyson's Farms and Grace's Pastries are returning for the new season. The LMS Farm, Walnut Hill Farm and organic tea producer Teaco will also be joining us again. Barajas Produce, a new vendor, will bring many additional produce choices including lettece, broccoli, spinach, salad mix, mustard green and much more. Bread lovers will find themselves indulge in the artisanal baguettes and pastries served up by Baguette Republic.

New Vendors Join Ballston Farmers Market

2009-02-26T10:24:00.000-05:00

We are excited to announce that 2 new vendors have been accepted to the Ballston Farmers Market.

Red Apron Butcher Shop based on Arlington, VA specializes in artisan cured meats including soppressata, bresaola, salami, bacon and beef jerky as well as non-cured items including gourmet hot dogs and pastrami, patis and terrines. A core selection of roughly 10 products will be available at every market in addition to a rotating group of weekly specials!

Tuckey Mountain Grown from Biglerville, PA will supply a wide selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables including apples, apricots, cantaloupes, nectarines, peaches, berries, asparagus, beans, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, corn, eggplant, leeks, peppers, squash, turnip roots and much more! Herbs and cut flowers will also be available.

A big welcome to Red Apron and Tuckey Mountain Grown! Be sure to visit their booths and bring your taste buds!

2009 Farmers Market Rules and Application Form Available

2009-01-21T17:22:00.000-05:00

The 2009 Farmers Market Call for Vendors is here! Market Rules and Application Form are available to download at http://www.ballstonvasquare.org/farmersmarket.html. Feel free to call our office at 703.528.3527 for questions. We look forward to another great season!

2009 Farmers Market Starting May 29

2009-01-06T09:35:00.001-05:00

The Ballston Farmers Market will be back in Welburn Square in downtown Ballston May 29, 2009. Updated Application and Market Rules will be available soon on our Web site http://www.ballstonvasquare.org/farmersmarket.html. Stay tuned!

Grace's Pastries Offers Winter Delivery Service

2008-10-24T13:27:00.000-04:00

To ensure that her die-hard customers will not be without her signature pastries and breads, Grace is offering winter delivery service. Simply email your order to warmbreads@gmail.com and you can get your order delivered right at your door! Make sure to include your phone number in your order email, so Grace can call you back and confirm the order. All orders must be placed 2 days before desired delivery date. Grace would like to thank you for your business!
Grace's Pastries Phone#: 703.318.0286

Only Three Markets Left. Join Us in Welburn Square!

2008-10-01T16:09:00.000-04:00

Don’t miss these final chances to shop for healthy foods! The weekly market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan breads and pastries, flowers and herbs, gourmet coffees, organic honey and teas, and natural beverages all produced locally by the familiar names of Tyson’s Farms, Walnut Hill Farm, Grace’s Pastries, Great Harvest Bread Company, Farmhouse Flowers & Plants, Hondo Coffee, Virginia Pure Beeswax, Teaco and Adam’s Apple. Live music is provided by “Dan the Man” from noon to 2:00pm. Weather is supposed to be really nice this Friday, so get out and get to the Square!

No Market This Friday (09/26) Due to Weather

2008-09-25T11:16:00.000-04:00

There will be no market this Friday (09/26) as we expect a lot of rain and high wind in the area. The rest of the markets will continue until October 17. We hope to see you next Friday in the Square!

French Gourmet Treat Arrives at Ballston Farmers Market

2008-09-02T14:00:00.000-04:00

Praline Bakery & Bistro recently joined us with its artisan French bakery items including croissants, danish, cookies, shortbread, muffins, poundcakes, macaroons (multiple flavors), coffee cakes among many other delicious offerings. This is a treat you can't afford to miss! See complete line-up of vendors to the right.

Join us in Welburn Square every Friday (through 10/17) from 11:00am-3:00pm. Live concert by "Dan the Man" from 12:00 noon to 2:00pm.

Live music by "Dan the Man" at Ballston Farmers Market

2008-08-04T14:37:00.000-04:00

Starting Aug 1 market through Oct 17, our long-time favorite "Dan the Man" will perform a unique blend of pop rock & roll music from the 60's, 70's and 80's. Dan will perform from 12:00p-2:00p. Come and join us in the Square!

New vendors add variety to Ballston Farmers Market

2008-08-04T14:06:00.000-04:00

To add to our great line-up of vendors, Tanglewood Farm and Virginia Pure Beewax have
recently joined us with their special offerings of homemade gourmet dog treats, handcrafted
soap made with natural ingredients as well as honey and beewax candles. Ballston Farmers Market has something for every one!

The July 11th market was one of the best yet!

2008-07-14T15:58:00.000-04:00

The July 11 market was one of the best yet! The weather could not have been better – a clear sunny day accompanied by a light summer breeze. The Square was packed with shoppers buying everything from freshly cut flowers to artisan bread to home-made barbecue sauce. Young visitors from the Arlington County Summer Camp program danced with live music and learned first-hand about the benefits of healthy locally-produced food. See below for photos taken while the market was in full swing. Don’t miss our next market on July 18! We will again be joined by great music and our awesome line-up of vendors!

June 13th market made grocery shopping easy and fun!

2008-06-16T17:22:00.000-04:00

Tyson’s Farms’ freshly picked strawberries are hard to resist. Walnut Hill Farm’s yellow and purple beets are always tempting. Of course LMS Farm’s green beans are just as fresh as they can get. In addition to helping out his parents, little Nathanial with J-Wen Farms added to the fun by showing his farm photo collection to those at the market. The live celtic fusion music played by Eire Supply was nice company for everyone!

Opening day was featured on front page of Arlington Connection

2008-06-11T11:49:00.000-04:00

The opening day of this year's Ballston Farmers Market was featured on the front page of the June 4 issue of Arlington Connection, a neighborhood newspaper. Read it online here.

Groceries and Groovin' in Welburn Square

2008-05-22T15:14:00.000-04:00

Weekly Farmers Markets start Friday, May 30 and so will the music. Come on out and taste the baked goods from Great Harvest Bread and Grace's Pastries, along with a refreshing beverage from Adam's Apple, while listening to the Andean folk music group Mystic Warriors.

Arlington Arts al fresco has put together a season of 8 concerts for your lunchtime listening pleasure. On May 30, it will be Mystic Warriors. On Friday, June 6, Welburn Square will be rocking with John Kaplan & Derek Evry, an acoustic group. Contemporary roots performer Dulcie Taylor is next up on June 20, followed by folk music artists Laurie Rose Griffith & Peter Mealy on June 27. There will be no concert or Farmers Market on July 4.

On July 11, Rick Franklin & Friends will perform Mississippi delta blues. The Maggie Sansone duo plays hammered dulcimer music on July 18, and the Arts al fresco season rounds out with acoustic folk pop group Cletus & Lori on July 25.

The Farmers Market features several new vendors this year. The aforementioned Adam's Apple makes natural beverages. J-Wen is bringing dairy products, including flavored milks, cheese and yogurt, from Pennsylvania. Farmhouse Flowers & Plants will be selling cut flowers, annuals, herbs and perennials all season. Salsa las Glorias will offer a variety of different salsas, some hot, some not. And, TeaCo specializes in organic loose leaf teas.

Joining last year's popular produce vendors Tyson's Farms and Walnut Hill Farm will be LM5 Farm and Westmoreland Produce. And, Dick's Kitchen returns with his selection of culinary treats, including vinegars, oils, sauces, and seasonings.

Support for Concerts in Welburn Square is provided by Dweck Properties, Gates, Hudson & Associates, The Jefferson, Paradigm Development Company, Piedmont Office Realty Trust and The Westin Arlington Gateway.

The Farmers Market operates from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and the music plays from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It's the groovy place to be: Welburn Square on Fridays.

New Vendors for 2008!

2008-03-20T11:37:00.000-04:00

We are thrilled to be accepting some new vendors into the market this year that will add some spice to our already exciting lineup!

Besides most of our 2007 vendors (see right), we are pleased to also be featuring homemade, fresh salsas by 'Salsa Las Glorias' and fresh cut flowers and potted plants by 'Farmhouse Flowers and Plants'.

The market opens this season on Friday, May 30th (11am-3pm) with a full house of vendors, and an open-air concert as part of Arlington's 'Arts Alfresco' series.

Stay tuned for an updated list of vendors in May.

There is still some room for vendors! Applications must by in by April 15th and can be found in the post below. You can also get an application by email or mail by contacting Julie at 703-528-3527 or ballstonvasquare@aol.com

2008 Vendor Opportunities:

2008-01-02T14:20:00.001-05:00

The 2008 market season will begin on May 30th and will run every friday through October 17th (with an exception of July 4th).

If you're interested in becoming a Ballston Farmers Market vendor, please download the:

Applicants are encouraged to read the Rules and Regulations prior to sending in their application. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but you should submit your application by May 1, 2008 for the best availability.

If you would prefer the application in Word format or would like a hard copy sent to you via regular mail contact Julie at: ballstonvasquare@aol.com or by calling (703) 528-3527

Looking forward to another great season in '08!

Butternut Squash Soup: Guest Blogger, Pinzimini Restaurant

2007-11-07T16:40:00.000-05:00

With the busy holiday season upon us, local restaurant Pinzimini offers seasonal specialties to inspire you to recharge. Located in The Westin Arlington Gateway, Pinzimini will entice your taste buds with menu selections such as their seasonal Butternut Squash Soup or specialty Falling Leaf Martini, helping you to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

The chefs at Pinzimini encourages you to “wow” your guests this holiday season by offering their recipe for their Butternut Squash Soup.

Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients :
1 lb. butternut squash
8 oz. carrot
8 oz. onion
8 oz. celery
1 clove of garlic
2 quarts chicken or vegetable stock
2 cups heavy cream
½ tsp cinnamon
⅓ cup honey
½ cup butter
⅓ cup pomace oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation
Peel the butternut squash and cut into wedges.
Toss squash with pomace oil.
Roast at 350ºF until light golden and tender.

In a soup pot, sauté garlic clove, 8 oz. carrot, 8 oz. celery and 8 oz. onion with ½ cup butter.
Add the roasted butternut squash.
Add 2 quarts of chicken/vegetable stock.
Simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add 2 cups of heavy cream.
Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add ½ tsp. cinnamon, ⅓ cup honey, and salt & pepper.

Blend all ingredients using a hand mixer. Add additional seasoning as needed.

Pinzimini will be featuring a special three and four course menu on Thanksgiving Day for both lunch and dinner. The menu will include seasonally-inspired dishes to start the holiday season off on the right foot. For Pinzimini dining reservations, please call 703.537.4200, or visit http://www.pinzimini.com/.

Market Extended until October 26th!

2007-10-11T14:42:00.000-04:00

The Ballston-VA Square Partnership is pleased to announce that we've extended our market to run through the end of October (last market: friday 10/26).

That gives you shoppers two extra weeks to get your glorious fall produce, baked goods and gourmet sauces and spreads.

Both of our farm stands will be selling an array of pumpins and gourds for your halloween/fall festivities. Also pickup acorn squash, corn, figs, concord grapes and eggplant.

Tysons farm has over 7 varieties of apples..tis the season for baking apple pies!

Also stock up on Hondo coffee. If you're addicted like I am, keep in mind that after October, the market doesn't reopen until May 2008!

and Lunchgoers can continue to picnic with fresh fruit, veggies and yummy empanadas from Grace's pastries..

see you at the square!

recipe time!

2007-09-13T11:46:00.000-04:00

I bought a couple of small eggplants at the market last week and came up with this quick and super-easy recipe for a curried eggplant dish. Total cooking time including prep: 30minutes..move over Rachael Ray!

Curried Eggplant:

(serves 2)

1 large or 2 small eggplants

1 medium onion

2tbsp. olive oil

1 cup chicken broth

1tbsp. curry powder

1/4 cup raisins

1 cup couscous (or rice)

Cut off the top of the eggplant(s) and cut the remainder into 1" cubes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Toss the eggplant in to get it started.

Chop onion and throw that into the skillet. Let the two sautee together until the onion is clear and the eggplant is tender (7-10 minutes).

Next toss in the raisins and the curry powder and sautee for 1-2 minutes. Add half of the chicken broth to start to create a simmering sauce.

Prepare 1 cup of couscous or any type of rice as directed on the package.

While the couscous or rice is cooking, continue stirring the eggpant mixture and add the remainder of the broth gradually.

Serve the curried eggplant mixture over couscous or rice and you're done!

Lunch Eats Under $5 At The Market!

2007-09-05T13:32:00.000-04:00

Feeling guilty about the $9-$15 lunches you've been buying lately? Well, for those of you who work in offices in Ballston, you should DEFINITELY check out the Friday lunchtime offerings at the Ballston Farmer's Market in Welburn Square.

Rounding the circle of vendors you can find a wide array of lunch items:

-at Grace's Pastries, pick up a freshly baked empanada filled with chicken or veggies (rice, kale, tomatoes, spices) for $2.50 each. Or pick up a gigantic slice of freshly baked focaccia (tomatoes, spinach, onion + peppers) for $3

-The Eu ropean Gourmet Bakery offers filled croissants (ham or turkey+cheese) and savory
vegetable tortes in the $2-$4 range. They also sell fresh baked cookies and sweets for about $1

-Grab a loaf of bread from Great Harvest, and some olive tapenade from Dick's Kitchen for a more picnic-y type of feast with friends.

-Round out your meal by picking up a fresh peach, apple or other fruit from either of our two farm stands.

-thirsty? the small deli on the plaza sells bottled water for $1 a pop post-tax (a rarity these days!), or for a post-lunch jolt, sample a small cup of Hondo Coffee and pick up a bag to take home for those lazy weekend mornings.

So, this Friday when you're heading out for yet another $10 salad, think different. Enjoy the nice weather, free live music and some healthy (and cheap!) eats in Welburn Square.

(Fridays from 11am-3pm through October)

Welcome to the Ballston Farmers Market!

2007-08-16T12:19:00.000-04:00

Come see us every friday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. through October 12. Enjoy live music at noon and a great lineup of vendors selling farm fresh produce, baked goods and gourmet treats!

We're located in Welburn Square in the heart of Ballston, right across from the Ballston Metro stop.

Check out the list of vendors on the right hand side for inspiration.

It's a great way to kick off the weekend. Pick up some goodies to bring home, or spice up your regular lunch routine by grabbing something fresh and enjoying the free concert during the lunch hour.

The market is sponsored by the Ballston-Virginia Square Parternship

see you there!