Nightshades are in at area farmers tailgate markets! It’s time to start pulling out grandma’s tomato sauce, fried eggplant, and stuffed pepper recipes.
There are new hues of purple at markets as eggplants make their debut this week. Also known as aubergines or garden eggs in other parts of world, eggplants are used to contribute to rich, full-flavored dishes. Full Sun Farm (North Asheville Tailgate Market, River Arts District Farmers Market) had three different varieties this week, including Fairytale Japanese, and Italian. Other farms that had eggplant this week include Paper Crane Farm (Asheville City Market, West Asheville Tailgate Market) and Angel Ridge Farm (Madison County Farmers Market).
Though we’ve already seen early season greenhouse tomatoes, we’re now seeing the first of the outdoor and heirloom varieties. Full Sun Farm had Brandywine, Cherry Purple, and Striped German varieties, as well as a mix of small varieties including Sun Gold and Mini-Yellow. Keep your eye out as more farmers and markets will have a growing abundance of tomatoes in the coming weeks!
Sweet bell peppers were spotted this week. Gaining Ground Farm and Flying Cloud Farm (both at Asheville City Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market and the River Arts District Market) have green and purple varieties of bell peppers. Gaining Ground also had tomatillos, which are great cooked in salsas, or grilled and added to a burger or sandwich.
McConnell Farms (Asheville City Market, Asheville City Market-South, and River Arts District Farmers Market) had their first blackberries of the season this week. The large, sweet berries are bursting with flavor!
This Saturday, July 12, Asheville City Market will be conducting their first drawing for the new Market Shopper Program. If you participate, you’re eligible to win a free Asheville City Market tote bag. And don’t forget, the new River Arts District Farmers Market will have their grand opening celebration this Wednesday, July 9 in conjunction with All Souls Pizza’s anniversary celebration.
For a complete list of Appalachian Grown™ certified tailgate markets browse our online Local Food Guide or online farmers market calendar.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
