'Tis the Season

I recognize that I have many privileges living in the United States, one being the ability to get practically all types of produce at any time of year.  Avocados and strawberries in the winter?  No problem.  But, this isn't the case in Finland.  

Since arriving in Finland, I've heard a lot about the wonderful seasonal Finnish fruits and vegetables that are only available during the summer months.  During the first two weeks, outdoor markets began advertising their Finnish produce.  As the days go by, more and more grocery stores and fruit stands are proudly selling homegrown cucumbers, tomatoes, and potatoes and the consumers are clearly in a frenzy for these fresh foods.  As I've started to buy and taste the Finnish fruits and vegetables, I have to admit: the hype is worth it (even if I still find humor in the uncontainable excitement for "new" potatoes)!

Tonight's dinner included a salad with lettuce freshly picked from the garden at my Kulosaari home, a gigantic Finnish cucumber - one of the largest I have seen and also adorned with a lovely Finnish flag on the plastic packaging, and perfectly ripe Finnish tomatoes.  The meal didn't include Finnish feta, brie or prosciutto, but the results were just as tasty it looks!

And now, I'm eagerly awaiting the ripening of Finnish blueberries and raspberries!

On another note, this post is dedicated to Johanna.  Though it may not feel like summer to me, 'tis the season and she does her best to indulge me in summer-like activities, including dinner on the patio (despite wearing many layers and keeping a scarf nearby, just in case).