Summer is the easiest time of year to embrace seasonal eating thanks to the abundant fruit and vegetable options available at the Dallas Farmers Market, and with each newsletter, we always let you know what’s currently in season in Texas and what’s specifically available at The Shed. By incorporating this seasonal produce into your recipes, you’ll be rewarded with meals full of flavor, texture, and dense nutrition, all while supporting local farmers and communities.
Our five-part series pairing picnic basket bites with local park locations, thanks to recommendations from Outside, Texas, is meant to inspire the discovery of all our fresh produce varieties and the incredible outdoor summer fun North Texas has to offer.
This week, we invite you to head to the Shed to grab all the fixings for DFM Veggie Tray, then travel north to Arbor Hills Nature Preserve – a 200-acre natural retreat that’s perfect for outdoor fun and relaxation.
This scenic Plano park offers a mix of woodlands, open prairies, and flowing creeks, creating a beautiful backdrop for walking, jogging, hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the fresh air. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic overlooks and local wildlife, while families can take advantage of the playgrounds and picnic areas. Whether you’re seeking activity and adventure or a quiet morning outdoors, Arbor Hills has something for everyone.
DFM Veggie Tray
Veggies: options that are in season and are perfect for raw snacking are beets, bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, radishes, snap peas, and tomatoes. You can find these veggies from the following farmers in The Shed: Heddin Family Farms, HOPE Farms, Kelley Produce, Pepperona Peppers, the DFW Produce Table, and Williams Garden.
DIPS: Brothers Products is your go-to, one-stop-dip-shop in The Shed. They have a huge selection of freshly made hummus, baba ghanoush, feta dips, tzatziki, olive tapenade, and more! Crowd favorites are the triple layer dip, spicy hummus, and garlic basil dip. They also have a huge selection of marinated olives that make a great addition to your veggie smorgasbord.
PREP + STORAGE: Make sure all veggies are washed and cleaned before consuming. We recommend washing all veggies in cold, running water. Use a brush if needed for root veggies like beets, carrots, and radishes. Cut veggies into small pieces or sticks for ease of dipping. Store veggies in an airtight container. Keep veggies and dips cool in an ice chest or insulated bag until you are ready to enjoy. Pack plenty of napkins and enough plates to share with your group because this refreshing picnic basket bite will be in demand!
