Start your shopping list and get meal inspiration each week with ASAP’s roundup of what’s fresh at farmers markets. Although this report focuses on vendors at Buncombe County markets, many products mentioned can be found at markets throughout the region. Want to get this report in your inbox each week? Subscribe to ASAP’s Weekly Farmers Market Report newsletter. Looking for a yearlong view? Check out ASAP’s produce seasonality chart.
Strawberries are arguably one of the most exciting parts of spring, and they’ve finally arrived at farmers markets! Their natural, refreshing sweetness is synonymous with the season. While you probably don’t need much to enjoy strawberries, try getting creative with a few new recipes this week. Right now, you can find strawberries from farms like … Read more
These sunny skies and 70 degree days finally have it feeling like spring! This season’s markets are full of spring alliums like green garlic, ramps, leeks, onion scapes, green onions, and more! Ramps, an Appalachian springtime favorite, have made their way back to markets! This wild allium variety is loved by chefs, foragers, and market-goers … Read more
Asparagus has arrived at farmers markets for spring! Asparagus packs a lot of nutrition, including Vitamin A, potassium, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. This culinary staple can be cooked in many ways, including a delicious pasta primavera. Did you know that primavera means spring in Italian? What better way to kick off the season than a … Read more
With the arrival of the new season we welcome the return of farmers markets and the dozens of vendors that come with them! Mustard greens and arugula are some of the first signs that spring produce is on its way back in, and you can find plenty at markets this week. Look for arugula and … Read more
Farmers tailgate markets are getting ready for a new season with a few shifts in operating hours coming up over the next few weeks. Below is a rundown for what to look for at Buncombe County markets, but you can also find opening dates for markets across the region at appalachiangrown.org. At these early spring … Read more
As spring creeps in, farmers markets will start to have new vegetables that invite shoppers to try something new. Spring alliums—including scallions, spring onions, and green garlic—are among the first to mark the new season! These versatile vegetables lend a fresh, peppery flavor and can spice up almost any dish. Stir fry is a classic … Read more
Spring officially arrives on Tuesday! Most farmers markets around the region have opening dates starting in April and May, but we’ll have a rundown of times and locations for Buncombe County markets within the coming weeks. Though we still have a few weeks before we see spring produce like asparagus, rhubarb, or strawberries at markets, … Read more
Winter produce is still abundant at farmers markets. While we wait for spring fruits and veggies, there’s still time to explore new recipes with winter’s bounty! Try making this delicious “green” shakshuka recipe with winter greens and veggies like chard, broccoli, and kale. Or use some of this season’s winter squash for a nourishing curry … Read more
Among the plethora of root crops, squash, and leafy greens you can find at farmers markets during the winter, there’s still some less commonly used (yet still delicious) produce in the mix that you can try experimenting with this season. Try testing out some new recipes including kohlrabi or radicchio this week! If you like … Read more
Although Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring, our farmers markets will continue to run on their winter schedules till the end of March. As winter temps swing up and down, winter markets offer an array of goods that can be used for cozy meals. What better way than with a hearty, filling shepherd’s pie? This … Read more