Crocuses are blooming! Their brilliant orange pollen makes them look as if there’s a dusting of turmeric over them – surely a sign that spring can’t be far away? And if bulbs in bloom aren’t enough to convince you that winter may exit stage left, then a trip to the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market is in order. There are more growers on hand and a decided energy among shoppers as they fill their bags and baskets with French breakfast radishes, knobbly leaves of spinach, and peppery salad mixes.

Reyah Sunshine Farm in Chimayo has blue and white oyster mushrooms on offer along with lion’s mane – perfect to cut into thick ‘steaks’ and pan fry with garlic and herbs. Or sauté their oyster mushrooms and serve with gently scrambled eggs from Cruz Farm. Kale and cavolo nero are still available from Khalsa Family Farms – asking for you to cook them with beans and top with a healthy glug of olive oil and generous dusting of parmesan cheese.

And for a taste of summer when it’s not even spring, pick up a bag of hydroponic tomatoes from Growing Opportunities – tiger-striped, deep purple that’s almost a black, crimson red and golden yellow.

Story and Photography by Julia Platt Leonard

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