The most iconic spring produce is asparagus and strawberry and both are coming in slowly this year. In the face of the limited supplies and late starts of these gems, it’s nice to focus on the certainty of staples at area tailgate farmers markets.
From person to person, definitions may vary for what their personal staples are, but for this week, we’ll focus on greens, bread, eggs, cheese, and meat. These are goods you can find all year long from vendors at market.
Greens. From tender mixed salad greens, to large leaves of collards, farmers bring a diversity of greens to market every week. In early spring, baby greens and salad mixes are most prevalent, but you can also find spinach, broccoli rabe, kale, and others.
Bread. Each bread vendor has their own wonderful touch. The bread vendors at area markets are craft bakers bringing lovely loaves for you to bring home with you. Make hearty sandwiches, or spread just butter for a light side to any meal. Gluten-free? Many markets have gluten-free bakers vending, as well!
Eggs. Organic, free-range, soy-free — whatever your egg preference is, you can likely find it at an area farmers market. Eggs from farmers market are the best around; some of the most flavorful, rich eggs you can find. Also at some markets? Duck eggs and quail eggs.
Cheese. Sheep’s milk? Goat? Cow? Find cheeses made from many milks at markets across the region. Delicious chevres, aged hard cheeses, soft cheeses with incredible rinds, and more.
Meat. Grassfed beef? Yes. The best bacon ever? Yes. Knowing the farmer that raised the meat on your dinner plate is a an enriching experience. At markets you can meet your farmer, ask questions, and develop relationships. It’s also a way to get great recipe advice!
Markets are great to make into a day or weekend trip. Choose a market an hour or two away and plan restaurants to eat at for lunch after the market, and sights to see nearby. Some markets opening outside of Buncombe in May? Try Henderson County Tailgate Market, Historic Marion Tailgate Market, Mills River Farmers Market, Saluda Tailgate Market, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Tailgate Market, Rutherford County Farmers Market (just to name a few)!
Area farmers tailgate markets take place throughout the region. Check out the full list of spring market opening dates across 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.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
