Strawberries, greens, turnips, radishes and more continue to cover farmers tables at area tailgate markets. There’s more than just produce, also look out for meats, eggs, cheeses, breads, baked goods, and crafts. And, as spring markets get rolling, meet more growers and producers and build relationships to foster throughout the season.
Strawberries are now in full swing! Find them from many growers, including A Way of Life Farm (River Arts District Farmers Market), Full Sun Farm (North Asheville Tailgate Market and River Arts District Farmers Market), and Flying Cloud Farm (Asheville City Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market, and River Arts District Farmers Market).
Greens are great in the spring to lightly sautee, use in salads, or put into morning smoothies! Nearly every produce farm has greens available at markets now. Fresh spring garlic continues to be at market as well. Stop by Becki’s Bounty (East Asheville Tailgate Market and Black Mountain Tailgate Market) and Root Bottom Farm (West Asheville Tailgate Market), as well as other farms for fresh spring garlic this week.
Turnips and radishes are the spicy stars of spring. Brightly colored (find them in purples, pinks, reds, and whites) from Aardvark Farm (River Arts District Farmers Market and Yancey County Farmers Market), Ivy Creek Family Farm (North Asheville Tailgate Market and Weaverville Tailgate Market), Highgate Farm (Black Mountain Tailgate Market), and more! Though turnips and radishes are often eaten raw, they can be even more delicious (think less spice and more sweet) when cooked or prepared. Roast them like other root vegetables to soften and caramelize them a bit, or place them in a jar with vinegar in the fridge for a few days for quick pickles.
Head east from Asheville this week to check out some awesome markets out that way! The Historic Marion Tailgate Market has some exciting opportunities for EBT/SNAP users. From their newsletter: “Thanks to a partnership with RAFI and the Fresh Bucks program, EBT/SNAP users can use Market Fresh Bucks to double up to $10 to provide additional funds for fresh, seasonal items to supplement their Food and Nutrition Income, and thanks to the Kate B. Reynolds Trust, every new SNAP user will receive a free copy of the cookbook, Good & Cheap by Leanne Brown.”
Area farmers tailgate markets take place throughout the region. Check out the “2016 Tailgate Market Opening Dates” to find out when markets are opening up near you. As always, you can find information about which farm stands are open and other farms to visit in the winter months by visiting our online Local Food Guide.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
