Purslane - Give it a Try

Maysie's Farm was selling purslane this past week. What is purslane - it is a succulent that actually grows readily in many of the gardens and yards of East Goshen - quite accidentally - most of us call it a weed, but it's actually delicious! As with any wild growing plants - beware - spurge, a poisonous creeping wild plant sometimes grows near purslane - better to purchase your purslane from the farming experts!

Purslane has a lemon-y bite and adds a refreshing flavor to recipes. Today I'm offering a simple recipe for a purslane salad - it's easy and delicious.

Purslane Salad 
1 cucumber, peeled and de-seeded, sliced
1 bunch purslane, washed and broken into bite-sized pieces - do not use the thicker stems
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup thinly red and yellow pepper
1/2 cup grape tomatoes
2 Tbsp shallot vinaigrette

Combine all ingredients and toss gently to coat with the vinaigrette. Serves 4.

As an entree with dinner I served this divine savory tart from Market Day Canele that T purchased at market this Thursday  - Corn Custard with Pancetta, Tomato and Basil. The corn custard was intensely flavorful and smooth as velvet. Take a look at the ingredient list on this tart - this is what local is all about! Market Day Canele will be back to market in 2 weeks - get to market early if you want to try these tarts - they sell out fast!