Jefferson Street Farmer's Market - 9/29/16

Thursday, September 29, was the last Farmer's Market of the year. The weather was beautiful. The crowds still came downtown. The vendors still lined the streets, and this late into the season, there seemed to be more craftsman and bakeries along the street than fresh growers. I hate to think that it will be gone until May of 2017.

For the last few weeks, we missed one of our favorite Vendors, Pickle Creek Herbs. We were fortunate enough to pay them a visit on the last night of the Farmer's Market, and we got the chance to learn more about them.

Pickle Creek Herbs is based out of Fairfield, Iowa. They bring a variety of infused oils and balsamic vinegars, homemade soaps, salves, and bath oils to the farmer's market every other week on their rotating schedule. They lay out small bowls filled with about an inch of the oils and vinegars they have concocted for sail, and small pieces of bread are available for you to sample each and every available oil if you so choose.

I am partial to their infused oils. They do a much better job than I could ever try to do in my own kitchen, and the flavor of the herbs that comes through is the perfect accident to a variety of dishes. My favorite is the Greek Basil and Garlic infused olive oil, which I use most often for an Italian Grilled cheese. Rather than butter, I brush the olive oil onto the bread. It's just enough to impart the flavor of the basil and garlic into the bread. I hated thinking that I might not get a chance to stock up.

 Fortunately for me, they have a website where they sell their infused oils throughout the year for those of us who may not make it out to Fairfield to visit their physical location. Please visit their website if their product entices you!