While looking online, I came across a unique farm stand that is just up the road a bit. It had excellent reviews, so we decided to go check it out for ourselves one afternoon. The name of it is the Pezzini Farms stand and it's located on the outskirts of Castroville, Ca...the artichoke capital of the world.
This farm stand sits just off hwy 1 and is surrounded by fields of artichokes. I have never seen the actual plant and didn't really have a clue what to expect. They look like overgrown weeds :)! They are a type of perennial thistle, so the leaves look like weeds, but in the center of the plant a stem pokes up with the artichoke ball thingee on the end that we all recognize (so scientific). The part we eat (the ball) is actually a flower bud...did not know that. If left to bloom, it will be a pretty purple flower. So fun to show the kids :)
We enjoyed browsing the store. In addition to the veggies, which were great, they sell a large variety of specialty items. We bought several things but my two favorites (non veggie) were the Pezzini Farms Artichoke Pesto Sauce and the big bag of organic quinoa that we got for an excellent price.
Before we could leave, we had to pay a visit to the food truck parked alongside the market. The "Choke Coach", as it's called, serves a small variety of things. I honestly can't remember what, though, other than what we ordered. Battered and fried artichoke hearts...SO good! We got them sprinkled with parmesan and garlic sauce for dipping. We all thought they were delicious :). Just a fyi, the food truck is cash only - the market takes debit.
After our yummy snack, we decided it was time for a walk. Just a few minutes and a short drive later we were at the beach.
Walking and talking...
Searching for treasures...
A mermaid's necklace maybe? The kids thought so ;)...
Thinking...
And the sunset, always different, always beautiful...
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