Vendors from West Virginia and Maryland sell basil and parsley plants, and other herbs are available by the bunch. A handful of growers now have thick, healthy leek stalks for sale. The glorified chive works well as a flavoring for soup, especially potato, and is an essential ingredient for many vegetable tarts and quiches. The thicker textured butterhead stands in nicely for fresh spinach in autumnal salads. Shiitakes and portabello mushrooms from the market have a fuller, earthier taste.
White mushrooms are big and firm.
All varieties are organic. Choose from red, yellow or white varieties, or pick up a sack of sweet Vidalia onions for baking. Vidalias can be placed in the oven, skin on, and baked until soft and juicy to create a delicate side dish. Drizzle the result with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh black pepper and parsley. Fresh slices of red or white bartletts also work well in salads, providing a sweet, crunchy contrast to tangy balsamic.