What to buy at the farmers market this summer
It’s summertime, and if you’re an avid farmers market visitor, some of the best produce is in season right now! Here’s some tips for your next trip and a look at what we’re buying this summer to stock up on fresh produce.
Do I have to shop at the farmers market to be healthy?
Nope! The Prevent Cancer Foundation recommends eating lots of fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains for your health. You don’t need to get these items at the farmers market (any grocery store will do!) but the farmers market can be a fun weekend activity and a great way to support local farmers. If you find that with your budget, the best deals are at your local grocery store, you can still get all your nutrients there instead.
Farmers market tips
Shopping at the farmers market is a little different than going to your local grocery store chain. For instance, you might bring a list of items but realize you can’t find everything at the market. You’ll only find in-season, locally grown items, so if you’re not in a tropical area, don’t expect bananas.
It’s a good idea to come in with some basic ideas but to let yourself get inspired while you’re there. For example, plan out a pasta dish but be flexible with your vegetables, or plan to make yogurt bowls for breakfast but let what looks yummy inspire the berries you buy.
Don’t overbuy or buy unrealistically! Definitely experiment, but if you know you’ll never cook beets, think twice before buying them. Plus, you don’t want any food to go to waste.
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What we’re buying this summer
- Berries. Try a sample of blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries, which are great in tons of recipes or alone as a snack. If you realize you won’t finish them in time, throw them in the freezer to turn into smoothies later. Try these strawberry-banana smoothie pops या raspberry-chocolate chip frozen yogurt recipes for healthier summer desserts.
- Stone fruits. Peaches, plums, cherries and apricots are some of the best summer fruits! While they’re perfect on their own or in desserts, consider getting creative by adding stone fruits to a savory dish. Start with this cherry, wild rice and quinoa salad.
- Watermelon. Now is the best time for refreshing, hydrating watermelon. Other than the classic triangle slices, we recommend trying out this zippy watermelon salad with goat cheese and jalapeño.
- Summer squash. Zucchini and yellow squash thrive in the summer. Looking for inspiration? Try this basil, shrimp and zucchini pasta dish या एक summer succotash salad.
- Tomatoes. Fruit or vegetable—we don’t want to hear the discourse. The truth is that tomatoes are the perfect complement to any summer dish. This bean and tomato salad with honey vinaigrette also has green beans—another summer favorite. Try charring your tomatoes in this chicken taco recipe.
What to look out for that isn’t produce
Be on the lookout for eggs, dairy and meat—although it’s best to limit red meat and avoid processed meat completely.
In terms of prepared food at the farmers market, keep your eye out for dips like hummus and salsas—which are generally healthier than the kinds you’d buy at the grocery store, since they have fewer added ingredients. Always check labels to be sure. You can also find bread, fresh juices and snacks at the farmers market. Enjoy!
Going to the farmers market on a warm summer day is one of the best weekend activities. Be on the lookout for in-season produce and try some new recipes!