Spring's Arrival

Today marks the official arrival of spring but I could see the bright new season was here yesterday at the Old Oakland farmer's market. The strawberries are starting to arrive in greater numbers. They are still on the expensive side though. Asparagus is the real sign of spring. The first tasty new vegetable to appear after the long bland winter months. The spring asparagus are the best, small vibrant shoots with loads of flavor. i usually put them in pasta, either penne or ravioli. On occasion I make an asparagus risotto, which is really quite good. With the arrival of asparagus I now eagerly anticipate the zucchini, and then all the luscious fruits of summer!