Noticing that markets don’t look the same as they did this time last May? It’s true. Warm weather accelerated the harvest last year, while a cooler spring and recent heavy rains are delaying things a bit now. But rest assured, more produce is coming—more options and larger quantities!
strawberries
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
The bad news: It’s the end of the short ramps season—grab ’em if you see ’em. The good news: The spring harvest is just heating up, and ramps are pretty much the only produce you’ll have to say goodbye to for a while at area farmers tailgate markets! This week, say hello to all manner of fruits and veggies: lettuce, spinach, strawberries, and the list goes on.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
Get your greens at area farmers tailgate markets now! Tailgates from Asheville City Market (ACM) to Jackson County Farmers Market, Madison County Farmers & Artisans Market to Weaverville Tailgate Market, and French Broad Food Co-op Wednesday Tailgate Market (FBFC) to West Asheville Tailgate Market and North Asheville Tailgate Market have opened outdoors for the season with all kinds of leafy greens. We’re talking arugula, chard, herbs (like cilantro and oregano), kale, lettuces, mustard greens, pak choi, and spinach.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
Strawberries and rhubarb go together like peanut butter and jelly, peas and carrots, salt and pepper…you get the idea! Luckily, both members of the dynamic duo are available at area farmers tailgate markets now—fresh from farmers and already baked into classic pies and crisps thanks to bakery vendors.
The veggie (even though it tastes sweet-tart like fruit, it’s a vegetable!) has been spotted from several vendors, including McConnell Farms (Asheville City Market, North Asheville Tailgate Market) and Jake’s Farm (Asheville City Market, French Broad Food Co-op Wednesday Tailgate Market). Like strawberries, rhubarb can be frozen for a taste of spring come fall or winter; just blanch it first.
Fresh at Farmers Markets This Week
Seeing strawberries? Your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you! The spring staple crop arrived at area farmers tailgate markets this past weekend, about two weeks ahead of schedule.
Strawberries joined fellow season-favorite asparagus at McConnell Farms’ two booths—at Asheville City Market and North Asheville Tailgate Market—selling out quickly at both. It’s possible they may still have a few bunches of asparagus this week, but strawberries are truly spring’s stars now. Jake’s Farm also brought berries to Asheville City Market, and Ivy Creek Family Farm brought theirs to North Asheville. Expect to find strawberries at markets through mid-May.