Mary Jane Leach (left) laughed as she accepted gifts of N.C. peanuts and muscadine wine during a farewell party last weekend. With her is Davidson Farmer's Market board chair Carol Mayes. (David Boraks/DavidsonNews.net)

Supporters and volunteers of Davidson Farmer’s Market said farewell to former manager Mary Jane Leach during a reception on Saturday, June 4, at Davidson Town Hall. Ms. Leach announced in February that she would give up the job this spring because of a job change for her husband. Read the full story

By LIZ WEINDRUCH
CorneliusNews.net

I spent the last three years in Boston hosting cookouts, but my recent move to the area landed me in a great apartment with no space for my grill.

Well, the next best thing to hosting a cookout is getting invited to someone else’s. And I’m planning ahead – beefing up on my creative side dishes, desserts, and even condiments.  And – ahem, I’m expecting invitations!

Bread and butter pickles are a great take along and can function as a side dish, snack, or condiment. The only problem with bringing these pickles to a cookout is that they’ll be gone before you know it.  I suggest doubling the batch and keeping some home for yourself. RECIPE follows.  Read the full story

Just in time for Memorial Day weekend, Liz Weindruch shares a recipe for a unique side dish – perfect for any cookout. Her recipe for Mexican-style grilled corn is the first in a summer series from our Blue Plate Special columnist. The series, called “Take it with you,” will include dishes that are great additions to cookouts, picnics, and other outdoor summer gatherings. Enjoy!

RECIPE: Elote Read the full story

By LYNDSAY KIBILOSKI
DavidsonNews.net

I love to bake. I especially love to bake pies. When I was little, I remember sitting in the kitchen watching my mom cook while I waited to eat whatever “usually” wonderful concoction was being created. When I was finally old enough to use kitchen utensils on my own, I tried my hand at a few different things. Today I am happy to say I know my way around the kitchen fairly well. Mom gave me all of her recipes, most of which I use. There are a select few that will forever remain ignored in my recipe book as I just don’t think I will be able to bring myself to eat them. Pie, however, is something I never ignore. Read the full story

The Davidson Farmer’s Market will host Strawberry Shortcake Day on Saturday, May 21, 2011. The market will be selling homemade strawberry shortcake made from locally grown berries and classic shortcake biscuits baked by market vendors. Shortcakes will be available from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., while supplies last.
Read the full story

Strawberries are now in season. (Patti McKinnon photo)

We’re two-thirds of the way through strawberry season, and if you haven’t yet made shortcake, now’s your chance.

Strawberries are sweet, delicious, and delicate, but have a short season. Wet weather can affect the yield and flavor of berries. All the more reason why the strawberry is celebrated with its own “cake,” (although shortcakes are good with blueberries, peaches and blackberries too). Read the full story