Welcome, readers.
Don’t judge me, but I’ve never been totally won over by pumpkin fare—especially pumpkin pie. Yet this season delivered a mischievous bite of fate: I tasted the most delicious pumpkin soup from Gamble Creek Farms, and I’m forever changed. Rich, creamy, and oddly comforting, it proved that pumpkin can be more than dessert. It can be a dream in a bowl.
If that soup is any hint, fall is here to surprise us with flavors we didn’t know we were missing—or I should say I was missing. Maybe it was the pumpkin itself that made the difference. There is a new ’kin on the block at the farm: Be sure to read about this perfect pumpkin grown right here in our backyard. I’m a late-to-the-pumpkin party convert and I can’t wait for another bowl of soup at the farm.
As the temperatures ease into that inviting fall weather—cool mornings, warm afternoons, and a gentle breeze—our plates begin to reflect the climate we treasure here: comfort, brightness, and a touch of sunshine after the heat of summer. It’s a season that invites slow cooking, bold flavors, and longer meals shared with family and friends. Fall here is not just a change in temperature; it’s a mood shift—about savoring what grows near us and welcoming that bounty. Recipe editor Beth Fox, in partnership with Detwiler’s Farm Market, helps us celebrate the season with three comforting, homestyle favorites (page 27).
The long-anticipated $8 million educational facility known simply as the Farm has officially opened the gates at McIntosh Middle School campus (page 41). It’s inspiring to see students immersed in sustainable farming practices, learning hands-on about responsible agriculture, and developing a deeper connection to the food system that sustains us all. Education and stewardship—both essential threads in the fabric of our local food scene. We are thrilled about this opportunity for students and for our community.
Our farmers markets are blossoming as well, booths brimming with seasonal produce, fragrant herbs, and small-batch treats (page 49). It’s a joy to stroll the market and chat with growers, and discover the stories behind each crate and jar. These markets are more than places to buy food; they are gatherings where communities come together, share knowledge, and celebrate the labor of the hands that tend the land.
As you turn these pages, I invite you to savor the season—literally and figuratively. Let the vibrant pumpkins, sunflowers, and greens remind you of the beauty in growth, collaboration, and the simple pleasure of a well-sourced meal. This fall issue is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the art of living well with what our region provides. Be sure to check out the annual farm guide in partnership with our local visitor bureaus.
Savor the season,
Tracy Freeman
Editor, Edible Sarasota
P.S. I’d love to hear which recipes or features resonate with you this fall.
Share your favorites on social media and be sure to tag us @edible_sarasota.
