A meal can be quick, rushed and solo. Think of that experience of a hurried grab at a protein bar or microwaved leftovers eaten while you scan your email. We all know what a rushed meal is like.
Imagine instead what it feels like to have in invite to a family-style dinner out on a big deck in the sun with a cook who appreciates the value of local food. This happened to me last weekend. There I was, sitting across from a couple of amazing Homer teenagers, with an awesome Homerite whom I only know to be a stellar mom and generous community member to my right, my husband and friends to my left.
We all enjoyed an amazing meal, shared stories and got to know each other better. You digest better, absorb nutrients better, and feel better when you eat with others. Now add to that mix a bunch of local, fresh, nutrient rich food, and it finally feels like your health is in your own hands.
The amazingly fresh veggies that we produce here have been the inspiration of many of our local chefs, not just the cooks at home but also in our many deluxe restaurants. Walking around and talking to producers at the Homer Farmers Market you will hear mention of the many different restaurants that they supply besides the Market.
Bob Durr was bragging about how Little Mermaid is taking all of his zucchini blossoms. AJ’s goes for Robert Heimbach’s root veggies and greens. Mike’s goes for the watercress and meats from Blood Sweat and Food Farm. Wild Honey likes the pea shoots, chives and flowers from Synergy Gardens for their specialty crepes. Every chef has their favorite.
Whether you are sitting down to a meal that you have thoughtfully prepared, carrying a dish to a friend’s potluck or eating out at one of our fine dining establishments, being thoughtful about how you eat your food can be as important as where your food comes from.
So when you head to the Market Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or on Wednesdays from 2-5 p.m., take your time and plan who you will invite over for dinner.
Kyra Wagner is the coordinator of Sustainable Homer and the Homer Farmers Market’s biggest fan.
