So much is going on at area farmers tailgate markets as we get a little deeper into spring and the growing season.
It is ramp season, so grab ramps directly from vendors, or see how some businesses are using ramps for special season products. At Asheville City Market, you could get ramps courtesy of Wildwood Herbal and Tito’s Specialty Foods was selling their new ramp hummus. Asheville City Market had plenty to take in on Saturday, including a new line of salamis by Dry Ridge Farm. They now have Classico and Milano salami, as well as sweet and hot Sopressata for sale. Speaking of local meats, Farmhouse Beef was sampling meatballs this past Saturday. They sold out of ground chuck before 11, so get there early for this flavorful ground variety, which are great for meatballs, hamburgers, and more. Cooler temperatures have delayed several crops, but asparagus is finally coming in, and McConnell Farms had purple and green varieties for sale at Asheville City Market and North Asheville Tailgate Market
From the center of Asheville to the far west, you can shop at tailgate markets across the entire Western North Carolina region. The Franklin Farmers Tailgate Market opened a few weeks ago in downtown Franklin, and will continue every Saturday morning, from 8 am to noon through October. Vendors include Peaceful Valley Nursery, Rabbit Creek Bee Company, and Mountain Trout. Right now you can find the following spring veggies: spinach, onions, leeks, garlic, asparagus, radishes, carrots, lettuce as well as containerized herbs. In addition, take home fresh strawberry-rhubarb pie, artisan bread, raspberry donuts, and other pastries.
A few more markets are opening this week including the East Asheville Tailgate Market, which will run every Friday, 3-6 pm at 954 Tunnel Road. Folks can expect favorites including vegetables from Highgate Farm, all kinds of products from Bee Tree Farm, meat from Warren Wilson College Farm, seafood from Becki’s Bounty, and much more. The market will include a few new vendors this year including Silvermoon Chocolate, jams and jellies from Mountain Man Preserves, and Simple Bread.
The Historic Marion Tailgate Market is also opening this week. Check it every Tuesday, 3-6 pm, in the City of Marion parking lot at the intersection of Henderson Street and Logan Street. At the market this week, there will be spring greens, fresh eggs, home-made breads, and bedding plants. This year, the McDowell DSS is offering vouchers to families to purchase seasonal food items at the market. Vouchers are for $2.00 each, and families can obtain more than one voucher for purchases. Contact McDowell DSS for more information at (828) 652-3355.
For a complete list of Appalachian Grown™ certified tailgate markets browse our online Local Food Guide or visit our farmers market calendar.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
