It is the LAST week of the 2019 Farmers Market season and we are sad to see the "summer" come to an end. However, we are excited to "pass the torch" to our dear friends at the Lodi Grape Festival this next week. Like the Lodi Certified Farmers Market, the Lodi Grape Festival is a staple of our community and has been around since 1937 (yes, you read that right). The Lodi Grape Festival provides an opportunity for many non-profit groups to raise funds for community projects and charitable giving- all while having good hearted, family fun. It's a bittersweet moment for us to lose our Thursday night tradition in Downtown Lodi, but can't wait to support next Thursday at the Grape Festival. If you haven't purchased tickets for Lodi's famous four day event, click here. 

In honor of this momentous event, our Recipe of the Week pays homage to a fruit that is SO WELL known and loved here in Lodi. That's right, GRAPES. Roasted grapes with thyme, brie, and honey over a toasted crostini- and to be honest, you had me at roasted grapes. Serve these up as an appetizer OR make this your lunch on the go for work. 

Ingredients:
red grapes- at least half a pound
extra virgin olive oil
fresh thyme sprigs
salt to taste
fresh brie
rustic bread, sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
fresh, locally sourced honey

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spread out the grapes, and drizzle with the olive oil and salt. Arrange thyme sprigs on top of the grapes and place pan into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until you notice the grapes beginning to burst and shrivel. 

While the grapes are roasting, brush crostinis with olive oil and place on a hot grill pan to sear and toast sides. Remove and immediately spread brie onto the toasted bread. Add grape mixture and add a slight drizzle of honey over the top. Serve while warm. 

If you'd like to get creative, we suggest visiting The Beekeepers Honey booth tonight at the Farmers Market for some of their WHIPPED HONEY to add texture to this delectable appetizer. We also recommend visiting Olive Drop Olive Oil to get your olive oil, Dancing Fox's booth for your delicious fresh bread, and everyone's favorite Cheese Central for your brie. Let's make this last weekend count, you guys!