Foreword

For more than 40 years, Southern Living magazine has been devoted to offering our readers the South’s finest recipes. Whether the recipe is from our trusted readers or developed by our staff of Test Kitchen Professionals, our aim is always to give you recipes that are dependable and flavorful and to include tips that will guarantee successful cooking. One of the best tips for getting perfect results from any recipe is to use fresh ingredients. With that in mind, we’ve created this book that celebrates eating locally, eating fresh, and eating by the season. The recipes in this collection are sorted by season to help you make smart use of food at its peak of perfection.

I think you’ll be pleased by the way these recipes strengthen the bond between the home cook and the local farmer, while fostering the joy of cooking. With dozens of Southern farmers market images included in the book, you’ll feel the energizing vibe of strolling among vendors’ stalls at the market, selecting fruits and vegetables from abundant garden-fresh offerings. You’ll delight in the knowledge that you’re preparing vibrantly tasty and healthful dishes with the freshest, most nutritious ingredients.

As you browse through the pages of this book, be sure to look for helpful advice on ingredient and recipe preparation offered in special Tips From Our Kitchen and Tips From the Farm boxes. For specifics on selecting and storing fresh produce and herbs, check out the Fresh Produce & Herb Primer. And don’t miss the Farmers Market Finds chapter starting. It’s filled with listings of dozens of farmers markets throughout the South, making it easy for you to locate markets in your area as well as some you may want to visit on your next vacation.

We’re passionate in our desire to provide you with recipes and cooking advice that fit your healthful lifestyle. Thanks for inviting us into your home.

Sincerely,

Scott Jones

Executive Editor