Farmer's Market Finds

Picture your local farmers market: an outdoor array of booths, a bounty of fruits and vegetables of all shapes, colors, and varieties, and loads of people meandering about in search of meal inspirations or that one essential ingredient.

When the market is really crowded with people who seem to know exactly where they’re headed, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. If you’re not a regular frequenter and perhaps need more time scanning each booth’s offerings, you may love going to the market during the cooler winter months.

Farmers Markets In Winter

Imagine the exact same set-up (booths, loads of fresh produce, helpful farmers, and delicious finds), but this time with much less people. It feels like you’ve been given the space and opportunity to get a closer look and ask more questions. That’s the beauty of Farmer’s Markets in the fall and winter.

Fewer people frequent the markets, often due to cold weather or simply unaware the market may be year round, however, they’re missing out. Though you won’t be finding juicy berries or sweet stone fruits, you’ll be amidst comforting winter squashes, plump persimmons, and all the ingredients for a delicious mulled wine (think citrus, spices, and ciders). Now is your opportunity to stroll the crowdless market with leisure, finding new foods, and sparking new ideas with all the fall market finds.

Stock Up With These Fall Finds

While you’re enjoying the extra space at your local farmer’s market, be sure to take a peek at these winter and fall favorites:

• Dark, leafy greens

There’s no excuse for skimping on your greens these season as kale, swiss chard, and collard greens abound! Use them as sandwich wraps, toss in your morning smoothie, or add to your favorite soups and stews for a nutritional (and seasonal!) boost.

• Cruciferous Veggies

I’m talking broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower. These are the perfect foods to roast then blend with your favorite spices to create warming soups that can be enjoyed all season long.

• Persimmons

This delectable fall fruit makes for the ideal topping to any and all harvest salads, not to mention, could be baked apple pie-style as a nice twist on a classic.

• Winter Squash

Your squash options will not disappoint each fall and winter. Time to find your favorite variation. Do you favor butternut, acorn, or pumpkin the best? Use this season as a trial period for all the yummy squash recipes you can find.

• Citrus

While oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes may have you dreaming of a summer paradise, these bright tangy flavors come to life in the winter! With their high Vitamin-C content, pick up a few extra citrus fruits to boost your immunity all season.

• Pomegranates

Pomegranate seeds go great with sweet and savory dishes, alike. Try sprinkling some on your morning bowl of oats or straight onto a hearty salad of sprouts, squashes, grains, and greens.