My thinking for the series "How to Cook without a Recipe" is pretty simple - it's hard to know what to do with all that produce from the market. So many options! So many cooking techniques! So much prep time!

I don't want it to seem intimidating to come to the market, see new things you'd like to try but then get stressed out because you don't know what to do with it and it slowly turns all moldy in the fridge while you wring your hands trying to come up with a dish. That's why I think this series is important and something we can offer at the market with the grace, effort and dedication of the amazing chefs who are donating their time and skills.

Ratatouille was one of my favorite films of all times and one reason was the tagline "anyone can cook!" and that's true. There are basic skills that chefs use to come up with new and interesting dishes. It takes time and practice to become a master at it, but there are things chefs do that make cooking easier that anyone can learn. So if you've ever wanted a crash course on basic cooking techniques (ahem, for FREE) come visit us on Saturdays at 10:00am from June - August.

The even more awesome part is we're partnering with AREACH & Nourish! to provide 12 teens the opportunity to shop with the chefs at 9:00 am to help bring those skills to youngsters who are learning about healthy living and making lifelong habits that promote fitness and well being. Those teens will get an inside look into how chefs make decisions and help come up with the dish, which the chef will then demonstrate for the audience. In addition, each teen will receive $20 in market tokens to spend on fresh, local, sustainably produced fruits and veggies so they can go home and practice their new skills.

For questions about the series or if you'd like to donate or sponsor the program with AREACH & Nourish! please e-mail me at sara@peachtreeroadfarmersmarket.com

Sara Goodell
Executive Director