Tasting the first local strawberry of the season can feel like an enchanted experience — bursting with flavor, strawberries are spring’s sweetest treat, and they’re now at tailgate farmers markets across the region.
In Asheville, strawberries can be found from McConnell Farms and Bear Necessities Farm (both out at Asheville City Market and West Asheville Tailgate Market, with McConnell also at North Asheville Tailgate Market) and Flying Cloud Farm (River Arts District Farmers Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market, and Asheville City Market).
A wholly new product has arrived in the Asheville farmers markets — fruit vinegars from Locally Good Farm. Stop by West Asheville Tailgate Market and the Yancey County Farmers Market to check out their apple cider vinegars and pear vinegar made with local fruits! They can tell you which farms’ apples went into each of their batches — an exciting addition to the local food scene!
Some greenhouse goodies at the West Asheville Tailgate Market right now include cucumbers from Thatchmore Farm (also at North Asheville Tailgate Market) and tomatoes from Lamb’s Creek Farm.
This month, Asheville City Market welcomes back multiple produce farms for the season, including Flying Cloud Farm, Aardvark Farm, Blue Meadow Farms, Ten Mile Farm, and Paper Crane Farm.
This time of year, as far as produce goes, you’ll find a wide range of greens. Depending on the market and the farm, you’re likely to also spot asparagus, rhubarb, turnips, and radishes.
What else can you find at early spring tailgate markets? You can always find a range of meats, cheeses, eggs, breads, baked goods, value-added items, plant starts, fresh flowers, and other treats!
Many farmers tailgate markets open next week throughout WNC. Visit ASAP’s list of dates to mark your calendar for when the markets near you get going!
Area farmers tailgate markets take place throughout the region. As always, you can find information about farms, tailgate markets, and farm stands, including locations and hours, by visiting ASAP’s online Local Food Guide.