By Crystal Grobe, Cafe Cyan

Have we turned the corner into spring yet? Even if the weather has a little catching up to do, my calendar is ready for spring. Yesterday under rainy and cloudy skies, the Nicollet Mall farmers market got rolling on its first Thursday market of the season, and tomorrow brings the first day for both the Minneapolis and St. Paul farmers markets.

(Credit: CBS/Crystal Grobe)

Local produce will be hit or miss due to the recent cold weather, but here are some early arrivals to be on the lookout for over the next few weeks.

(Credit: keepps via Flickr)

Morel mushrooms are quite elusive, at least for me, so I’ll be seeking them out at the market (rather than foraging in the woods) this season to use in appetizers, salads, and soups.

(Credit: Crystal Grobe)

I talked about ramps last year, which taste like a mix of onion and garlic. Ramps are great in soup, pesto, or used as a garnish for dishes.

(Credit: CBS/ Crystal Grobe)

Also look around for pea shoots, sunflower shoots, or other types of delicate greens to add to salads and sandwiches.

Enjoy the sunshine!