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.
As we get closer to fall with only a few weeks of summer left, winter squash are already hitting Buncombe County tailgate farmers markets. Find an array of varieties including butternut, delicata, kabocha, acorn, spaghetti, and honeynut squash. If the slightly cooler temps this week have you itching for some fall flavors, pick up some … Read more
The short season of North America’s largest native tree-fruit has arrived! Pawpaws, found in the Eastern United States, have made a few appearances at Buncombe County farmers tailgate markets and they won’t last long. This lesser known and quick to ripen fruit has a custard like texture and a taste most similar to tropicals like … Read more
It’s officially pear season in North Carolina! Asian pears are coming in at farmers markets, so be sure to grab some while they’re here. Their sweet, refreshing flavor and crisp texture make for the perfect late-summer snack. Unlike other common pears like barletts, Asian pears should be firm to the touch and crunchy like a … Read more
As the start of the school year approaches and it begins to feel more and more like late summer, preserving the flavors of peak summer is prime for the picking — or the pickling! There are many ways to preserve the bounty of produce from Buncombe County farmers tailgate markets including pickling, fermenting, freezing, canning, … Read more
With abundant tables of produce at tailgate markets, pair those summer meals with fresh herbs and take a dish to the next level. Not only do herbs bring bursts of flavor, but depth and aroma to brighten your senses. Of course, dry herbs can work too if you’re in a pinch, but with a plethora … Read more
As we turn the seasonal page into August, peppers of nearly endless varieties are taking their stride for the next couple of months. Head to one of the many farmers markets in Buncombe County and find all your favorites like sweet bell peppers, jalapenos, wax peppers and even types of peppers you may have never … Read more
As summer crops continue to thrive, an array of eggplant is reaching its peak season! While raw, eggplant can be rubbery and somewhat bitter, when cooked, this veggie takes on a creamy texture and easily absorbs or compliments any flavors that it’s paired with! You can find Italian globe, Japanese and fairy tale eggplant varieties … Read more
Sweet corn arrived at Buncombe County farmers markets especially early this year, thanks to early planting gambles that paid off for many farms. You can get solid yellow or bicolor ears from multiple farms at Asheville City, North Asheville, Black Mountain, West Asheville, River Arts District, Weaverville, and East Asheville Markets. Worried about finding an … Read more
A colorful mix of new potatoes are overflowing at Buncombe County farmers markets. Harvested earlier in the season before they develop their thick and protective exterior, new potatoes are extra sweet and creamy, cook faster, and have thin and tender skins making them the perfect star for many summer dishes—including a breakfast hash, herby mashed … Read more
Tomatoes are beginning their first appearances at Buncombe County farmers markets. Tomatoes come in almost endless varieties and are champions of versatility! With so many options to choose from and plenty of ways to utilize them in your cooking, tomatoes will be on your shopping list at farmers markets for the rest of summer through … Read more