Winnipeg Farmers’ Market & Dessert Dream

Savouring Summer: A Guide to Manitoba’s Best Produce and Markets

Manitoba summers offer a bounty of fresh, locally grown produce. From the sweet burst of strawberries to the crisp coolness of cucumbers, the flavours of the season are best enjoyed when sourced directly from the farmers who cultivate them. Visiting a local market is more than just a shopping trip; it’s an experience that connects you to the community, supports local agriculture, and inspires culinary creativity.

What’s Fresh and Delicious Right Now?

Here’s a look at some of the seasonal stars shining in Manitoba gardens and markets this July:

• Strawberries: Peak strawberry season is here! These juicy, sweet berries are perfect for snacking, desserts, or freezing for later use. To freeze, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll be ready for smoothies or baking when you need them.

  

• Zucchini and Summer Squash: These versatile vegetables are quick to cook and readily absorb flavours. Grill them, grate them into muffins, or roast them with other vegetables for a simple and delicious meal.

• Lettuce and Fresh Herbs: Crisp lettuce and fragrant herbs like basil, parsley, and mint are abundant. Use herbs to brighten up salads, dressings, or marinades. Store them like flowers by trimming the stems and placing them in a jar of water in the refrigerator.

• Corn on the Cob: Manitoba sweet corn is a summer highlight! Grill it in the husk for a smoky flavour, or cut the kernels off the cob for use in tacos, salads, or pizzas. Extra kernels can be frozen for year-round enjoyment.

• Cucumbers: Cool and refreshing, cucumbers are perfect for hot summer days. Eat them raw, slice them into salads, or blend them into smoothies or dips.

Winnipeg’s Vibrant Market Scene: Where to Shop Local

Winnipeg boasts a diverse array of farmers’ markets, each with its unique atmosphere and offerings. Here’s a guide to help you explore the city’s local markets:

• Bronx Park Farmers’ Market: Saturdays, 9 AM to 2 PM (until September 27) – 720 Henderson Hwy
• Country Roots Market & Garden: Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM (until end of October) – 1577 Henderson Hwy
• Downtown Farmers’ Market: Thursdays, 10 AM to 2 PM (until October 2) – South side of Manitoba Hydro Place along Graham Avenue
• East St. Paul Farmers’ Market: Sundays, 10 AM to 2 PM (until September 28) – 302 Hoddinott Rd
• FortWhyte Farms Farmers’ Market: Tues/Wed/Fri, 10 AM to 3 PM; Thursdays, 10 AM to 5 PM (until end of September) – 1961 McCreary Rd
• Jardins St-Léon Gardens Market: Open daily: Mon–Sat, 8 AM to 9 PM; Sundays & holidays, 8 AM to 6 PM (open until mid-October) – 419 St. Mary’s Rd
• Linden Woods Community Centre Farmers’ Market: Thursdays, 3 PM to 6:30 PM (until September 11; special Fall Harvest Festival on Sept 14) – 414 Lindenwood Dr. W
• River Heights Farmers’ Market: Fridays, 12 PM to 5 PM (until September 26) – 1370 Grosvenor Ave
• Scotia Street Farmers’ Market: Fridays, 11:30 AM to 5 PM (until September 26) – 442 Scotia St
• South Osborne Farmers’ Market: Wednesdays, 4 PM to 8 PM (until October 15) – 725 Kylemore Ave
• Boniface Summer Market: Thursdays, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM (until August 28) – 665 Taché Ave
• St. Norbert Farmers’ Market: Saturdays, 8 AM to 2 PM (until October 11); winter season begins October 18, 10 AM to 2 PM – 3514 Pembina Hwy
• Transcona Biz Community Market: Thursdays, 10 AM to 2 PM (until August 21) – 135 Regent Ave W
• Vic’s Market: Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM (year-round) – 1049 Pembina Hwy
• Wellness Institute Farmers’ Market: Tuesdays, 9:30 AM to 2 PM (until September 23) – 1075 Leila Ave
• West Broadway Farmers’ Market: Wednesdays, 3 PM to 6 PM (until mid-October) – 185 Young St
• Wolseley Farmers’ Market: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3 PM to 6:30 PM (until October 21) – 160 Ethelbert St

These markets offer more than just fresh produce. You’ll find local artisans, baked goods, honey, preserves, and vendors eager to share tips on using their products. It’s a great way to discover new flavours and support the local economy.

Recipe Inspiration: Strawberry Lemon Blondies

To make the most of your fresh strawberry haul, try these delightful Strawberry Lemon Blondies. These buttery, soft bars are packed with flavour and perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients:

Blondies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 heaping cup fresh strawberries, cored and finely diced

Strawberry Lemon Glaze:

• 1 ¼ cups icing sugar, spooned and measured, then sifted (optional)
• 2 ½ tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons strawberry purée (from approx. 12 large strawberries)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat until combined, then mix in the lemon juice.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined and no dry flour remains.
4. Fold in strawberries: Gently fold in the diced strawberries using a spatula. The batter will be thick. Spread it evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Bake: Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the blondies cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.
7. Prepare the glaze: Purée approximately 12 large strawberries and strain the purée through a fine-mesh sieve to obtain 3 tablespoons of strawberry purée.
8. Whisk and glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and strawberry purée until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more icing sugar or lemon juice as needed.
9. Glaze and set: Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled blondies. Allow the glaze to set before slicing the blondies into squares.

Enjoy the taste of summer with these delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies!