squash blossom fetish

Yes, I admit it. I am obsessed with squash blossoms. I don't know exactly what it is...some sort of sickness I am certain.

But every Wednesday, there I am at the farmers market in my little town of San Juan. I walk down the row (singular, it's a very small farmer's market) past the lady that sells the wine flavored sorbet (the cab is my favorite). I try to ignore the cute young guy trying to get my attention towards his baklava (it's too overpriced in my opinion) toward the end where I spot the two gentlemen that are selling their amazing vegetables. They recognize me now, and are probably thinking "Oh, there is that crazy blond lady who is always asking if we have squash blossoms". They reach into a box behind them and then, there they are, those lovely golden tributes to summer.

There are so many possibilities, whether filled with cheese, deep fried and served with a simple tomato sauce, or perhaps tossed into a green salad with an herb vinaigrette. But today is the day I am using them in a centerpiece. Yes, it may be a little unconventional. But what the heck.

I have to tell you that after I purchased my little beauties, waving goodbye to my farmer friends telling them I'd see them next week. I drove straight home and went to work putting together this inspired creation.

I was so excited to see this arrangement take shape. At one point I saw my husband looking out the window (I was in the backyard) and he just smiled at me. Apparently, I had the biggest grin while I was working. I'm not surprised. I get so much joy out of creating something beautiful. And yes, while this might be a little out of the ordinary, I guess that's why I like it so much. So, I hope this might inspire you as well.

So while the summer is still in full swing, go scope out your local farmers market vendor and ask if he has any squash blossoms. You can choose to do an arrangement like this, or even make a delicious appetizer for friends that will have them talking for weeks.

Nice one!

Shannon

Ingredients

1 urn type container

1 block fresh floral foam (soaked)

4 bunches squash blossoms

6-8 long cuttings of geranium or something similar.

Start by cutting to fit the floral foam into the container so that it is secure and about level with the top of the container.

Begin by putting in your greenery. Making sure that you fill in enough so as to hide any foam. Work around the edges and then fill in the center. Be careful not to make it to full, leave some open spots for grouping the blossoms. Then give the squash blossoms a fresh cut and begin filling in. They have tender stems to give care when inserting them into the foam. Continue filling until you've used them up. Use additional greenery if there are any open spots where you can still see foam.

Then, enjoy your creation! The squash blossoms don't last for more than a day, so if you are wanting to have this for an event it is best to do it the day of. The greenery will last for up to a week if watered daily. After the squash blossoms fade, just pull them out and add something else...roses would look lovely as well.