Cornerstone Market Serves Fishtown, Northern Liberties, and Old Kensington

I have one more reason to love Northern Liberties, Fishtown, and Old Kensington... the Cornerstone Market !

I was on my way home from a listing appointment with Chris in Fishtown yesterday evening when I realized my cupboard at home was bare. The thought of another night of take-out was less than appetizing to me. So, being the head chef and bottle washer, I stopped into the Cornerstone Market on 19 W Girard Ave. (Leopard St and Girard) to buy a few items for dinner.

The location is fantastic since it is literally at the proverbial "cornerstone" (traditionally the north east corner) of where 3 neighborhoods collide, Northern Liberties, Fishtown and Old Kensington. If you have not been there, I highly recommend it. There were a selection of basic items as well as fresh pastas, produce, frozen meats, gourmet inspired items, and so much more. The fellow behind the counter was so nice, and after a long day, polite conversation and a smile really goes a long way.

I picked up a firm tomato, some arugula, sea salt, and a box of linguine which were the missing items for my home cooked meal. In fact the salad I made was so spectacular I had to included the recipe below. (Let me know what you think if you try it at home.)

Tomato and Cheese Salad

1 firm ripe tomato sliced

1 3" round fresh mozzarella (or similar texture cheese of your choice) sliced

2 tbs of pesto (or a fist full of basil pureed w/ 1 tbs of fragrant olive oil )

Sea salt and pepper

1 hand full of arugula (or watercress or any spicy salad greens)

Day old garlic bread cut into large croutons

Arrange the sliced tomato and cheese on a plate and drizzle some of the pesto over them evenly. Drop a hand full of greens in a bunch in the middle of the plate and drizzle the remaining pesto over the greens. Add croutons and salt and pepper to taste. Serves 4 as a light salad to accompany any meal or serves two as a light lunch or snack.

Thank you Cornerstone Market. I thank you for the neighborhoods you serve and from saving me from one more night of take-out !