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.
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
As the first days of summer have arrived and the heat wave continues, keep your freezer stocked with fresh fruit popsicles! Whether you’re having trouble getting your kids to eat more fruit, or simply just want a healthy and delicious way to cool down these long and hot summer days, popsicles are the perfect way … Read more
With a heat wave gripping most of the Eastern United States this week, it’s too hot to cook! Luckily, we’re entering the season of chilled soups and gazpacho. These dishes are essentially vegetable smoothies to eat from a bowl—or even drink from a glass if you prefer! They require no heat to prepare, but pack … Read more
Just in time for Father’s Day, peaches and blueberries are starting to show up at farmers markets. Whether you are enjoying time with family and father figures this week or honoring the summer solstice, blueberries and peaches are the perfect way to celebrate. We’ve spotted blueberries so far from Thatchmore Farm (North and West Asheville … Read more
Cherries have a blink-and-you-miss-it season in Western North Carolina, but that moment is now! If you don’t eat all the cherries you find at farmers markets, you can preserve their flavors a bit longer by making vinaigrette to zip up your salads or syrup to add some zing to icy drinks. You can also freeze … Read more