There’s only one month left of summer and it’s starting to show at area farmers tailgate markets. Limited, late summer raspberries are peeking through the abundance of other more prolific produce, fall/winter varieties are starting to appear, and the air in the earliest hours of morning markets is starting to feel increasingly autumn-esque.
The very first winter squash, despite arriving in summer, are some of the foods most symbolically representative of autumn. They may be piled high in the sweltering summer heat, but it’s hard not to get excited about drinking hot fall beverages, wearing scarves and hats, and eating hearty stews. The first winter squash were spotted this year from Flying Cloud Farm, find them with their bounty at River Arts District Farmers Market, Asheville City Market, and North Asheville Tailgate Market. Expect to see winter squash from more vendors as the weeks progress.
Not quite as ready as some of us for autumn? Perhaps late summer raspberries are more exciting for you to focus on. There are a few farms with some now, including Tucker’s Garden (West Asheville Tailgate Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market) and McConnell Farms (Asheville City Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market, West Asheville Tailgate Market). There should be slightly more raspberries available in the next few weeks, but expect them to remain limited, in both time and quantity. Get ‘em while you can!
Aesthetically, Mexican Sour Gherkins will capture your attention—then you taste these bite-sized treats, and now they’ve really got your attention. Mexican Sour Gherkins, a relative of cucumbers, have been gaining in popularity at farmers markets in recent years, and if given the opportunity to taste and see them, you’ll know why. Known for their pickling prowess, they’re also great in salads, or as a solitary snack—lightly lemony, and crispy-crunchy, they’re quite the treat. Find them now from Ten Mile Farm (Asheville City Market, River Arts District Farmers Market).
Transylvania Farmers Market will have their annual Farm Fair on September 5. The event celebrates local farmers and producers, and includes a wide variety of vendor and educational booths, contests, events for kids, and is free to the public. Mark your calendars, and bring the family, or a crew of friends!
For a complete list of Appalachian Grown™ certified tailgate markets browse ASAP’s online Local Food Guide or the online farmers market calendar.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
