Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

garlic scapes, photo by Meghan Bosley

Memorial Day marks the unofficial kickoff to summer (even if by the calendar we’re still four weeks out), and for many of us the urge to breakout the grill is strong. That doesn’t have to mean meat, though! Farmers markets have plenty of grill-ready veggies for you. Most spring veggies, rubbed with a little olive … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

Camilla Calnan Photography_0015_North Asheville Tailgate Market_asparagus

Asparagus has arrived at farmers markets for spring! Asparagus packs a lot of nutrition, including Vitamin A, potassium, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. This culinary staple can be cooked in many ways, including a delicious pasta primavera. Did you know that primavera means spring in Italian? What better way to kick off the season than a … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

Although Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring, our farmers markets will continue to run on their winter schedules till the end of March. As winter temps swing up and down, winter markets offer an array of goods that can be used for cozy meals. What better way than with a hearty, filling shepherd’s pie? This … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

bone broth

With more limited produce at markets, this time of year is a great opportunity to explore the wonderful meat vendors at market! Whether you’re looking for a local product to feature in your Super Bowl shareables, searching for more immunity boosting recipes to stave off a cold this winter, or just trying to support farmers … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

Chicken from Wild East Farm at Asheville City Market

Locally raised turkeys are in high demand leading up to Thanksgiving! If you weren’t able to place an order in time for your bird this year, but are still looking for a local holiday centerpiece, not to worry! Farmers markets have plenty of options for a turkey alternative, including chicken, lamb, beef, and pork. Or … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

fennel

While some may consider fennel an acquired taste, the unique flavor and versatile nature of the vegetable gives it a variety of different uses when cooking! Fennel naturally has a licorice-like flavor and crunchy texture similar to celery when enjoyed raw, but when cooked, fennel becomes softer and loses its anise flavor. You can find … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

tomatoes

Labor Day is coming up, and one of the best ways to relax during the long weekend is to grab everything you need at the farmers market to make a few easy meals! Try throwing together a simple tomato salad to share with friends and family, or grilling out in the evenings with the plethora … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

potatoes

With farmers markets overflowing with summer produce, local food is the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day! If you’re planning to spend some time outdoors with the father figure in your life this Sunday, try grilling some local meats and vegetables.  New potatoes are flourishing at farmers markets this week, with lots of varieties available. … Read more

Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

roasted quail with herbs and cranberry sauce

There were a limited number of local turkeys available from Appalachian Grown farms this year, and those sold out by the end of October. So what if you didn’t reserve your bird early, but still want a local meat centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dinner? If you’re willing to get a little creative, you can find alternatives at farmers tailgate markets. (Planning a vegan or vegetarian feast? Stay tuned for next week’s column for ideas.)

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Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week

persimmons from Lee's One Fortune Farm

Persimmons are a lovely fall treat, great for making baked goods, fruit leather, pudding, jam, and other sweets. But you can also use this autumnal fruit in more savory dishes. The fuyu variety of persimmon, which tastes similar to an apricot or date with notes of cinnamon, is great in salads, in stews, or roasted. 

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