Strawberry season is the PSA that summer is right around the corner (and it’s immediately followed by blueberry season…cue the drooling).

New Jersey is known as the Garden State for a reason. We are blessed with fresh produce, and what’s in season right now are strawberries. They look a little bit different than the big, light, and sturdy berries you see at the grocery store. They’re small, in a rich red color, and delicate. I might even say they “melt in your mouth.”

I took my first trip to the Collingswood Market last weekend (yes, seriously). I’ve probably been to over 20 markets, neglecting the FIRST market in South Jersey. I simply don’t know what I was thinking. It’s a gem. And not even a hidden gem. Everyone seems to know about it except me. I even heard it referred to as the “behemoth” market in South Jersey.

I picked up this beautiful basket of strawberries at the Fruitwood Farms booth and spinach from Flaim Farms. The basil I was able to pick from my own backyard (yes, I haven’t killed all my plants yet). It’s a great feeling when all the fresh produce in your meal was grown within 40 miles.

Now it’s not something that naturally comes to mind, right? Cheese and berries? Maybe on a meat and cheese platter with a nice glass of wine, but that’s it. Seriously, trust me. This works. 

Crunchy, fresh spinach. Creamy goat cheese. Fresh, local strawberries.

Top with your favorite balsamic dressing or glaze (or use the recipe below).  Add some grilled chicken and you’ve got a perfect summer meal quicker than you could ever imagine. I promise.