Farm Stand Finds
Summer is all about spontaneity, and there's possibly nothing better than happening upon a roadside farm stand or small-town farmers' market filled with seasonal produce, wildflowers and handmade goods that are ripe for the picking.
Whether it's a jar of smoky pickles or floral honey, artisan accoutrements are perfect for upgrading simple grilling recipes and last-minute meals, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time outside. The best part is that no matter where you are in the country, you'll discover your own great finds.
Here are some top-notch small-batch products to tickle your imagination and guide you when you're visiting your own local farm stand.
Pickled Okra
Made with Spanish smoked paprika, this "Smokra" from Rick's Picks is a great accompaniment to a charcuterie plate or addition to a sandwich.
Fig & Onion Jam
You'll slather this sweet-and-savory jam from Anarchy in a Jar on everything from cheese and crackers to grilled steak.
Goat Milk Caramels
Chewy and completely addictive, these caramels, which hail from Vermont's Big Picture Farm, are the perfect after-dinner favor for guests, and the ideal anytime sweet.
Fuji Apple and Ginger Tea
Keep it artisanal with a cool glass of Fuji Apple and Ginger organic black tea from the Pure Leaf Tea House Collection. Expertly crafted teas are the perfect complement to an unexpected summer.
Raspberry Lime Rickey Jam
Bonnie's Jams turns your childhood favorite into an epic jam that's basically summer in a jar. Use it with abandon.
Small-Batch Granola
Brooklyn-Based Early Bird churns out perfectly balanced batches of sweet and salty granola, to be enjoyed over yogurt, or by the handful.
Spicy Honey
Honey is sweet, but spicy honey, like this one from Bees Knees, is even better.
Artisan Hot Sauce
You love Sriracha as much as the next guy, but you'll fall just as hard for some of the smaller brands, like Red Clay Southern Hot Sauce.