Farmers Market Report: May 18, 2016

Are you getting your superfoods?

Here’s six nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables you can get now at area farmers markets. You’ve heard the term “superfood” before, and this spring, you’ll find plenty of fruits and veggies that are known for being naturally nutrient rich, and good for both flavor and health. Pick up these six superfoods this week at the market, and use the recipes we’ve provided, and you’ll have healthy meals for days!

  • Asparagus: Asparagus is packed with fiber, folate, and vitamins like A, C, E, and K. It’s a natural diuretic, and contains vitamins needed to boost that brain power. If you’re into a nice spring soup, try out this recipe for cream of asparagus. Asparagus is also easy to steam, sauté, or bake it with a side of fish (like salmon).
  • Beets: Beets aren’t just pretty in color, they’re pretty good for your body. Especially for women who are pregnant, or just need additional iron in their bodies. This colorful beet salad also includes other superfoods like spinach and quinoa, more items to look for at your local farmers market!

Fennel_Blooming Glen Farm_photo credit Lynne Goldman 500x352

  • Fennel: Adding some fennel into your diet may just be a good idea, since the herb contains an anti-inflammatory phytonutrient called anethole, which studies say can decrease your chance at getting cancer. This fennel salad with radicchio would be a great replacement for the fattening coleslaw at your next picnic.
  • Ramps: You’ve seen our recipes for ramps, haven’t you? They have a potent flavor but they’re high in vitamin A and C, and they can be a great addition to any side dish. Try goat cheese and caramelized ramp crostini, or consider just chopping some up since the whole plant is edible.
  • Strawberries: Strawberries make great desserts, but add them into any salad for antioxidant-promoting vitamin C and manganese. This strawberry salad is classic, but delicious.
  • Wheatgrass: You’ve heard people rave about wheatgrass being so good for your body, and that’s because it has pretty much every vitamin under the sun. Give it a go, and try these flavorful wheatgrass shot ideas (you can even add ginger for some zing).

Don’t forget about the strawberries! Last week, both Amy Manoff of Manoff Market Gardens and Brenda Slack of Milk House Farm tell me the red beauties are starting to ripen. Be sure to call your local farmers market to learn their strawberry status. We can hardly wait to begin pickin’! Here’s our strawberry post from 2015. We’re working on an update for 2016.

Here’s what you will find at area farms and farmers markets, all grown in Bucks County. [Note: not every farmers market will have all these goods, but it’s a good chance you will find this produce.]

For a full listing of Bucks County farmer markets and their days/times, go to our Local Food Guide to area farmers markets.

Radishes from Promised Land Farm

CLICK HERE to download My local food shopping list from BUCKS COUNTY TASTE – perfect for planning your weekly shopping at local farms and markets.

Produce

  • Arugula
  • Asparagus
  • Beets (with green tops)
  • Bok choy
  • Broccoli raab
  • Carrots (with green tops)
  • Fennel
  • Garlic (spring) and garlic scapes
  • Herbs: dill, parsley, thyme, mint, sage, cilantro and chives
  • Kale
  • Leeks
  • Lettuce and lettuce mix
  • Mushrooms
  • Nettles
  • Onions
  • White & sweet potatoes
  • Radishes
  • Ramps
  • Rhubarb
  • Scallions
  • Spinach
  • Swiss Chard
  • Hakurei Turnips
  • Wheatgrass

Apple Ridge Farm bread

Many markets will also be selling…

Seedlings – Organic veggie seedlings, potted herbs, leek and onion plants, bedding flowers
Honey – locally sourced honey and beeswax products
Meats – Locally raised meats including pasture-raised pork, beef, chicken, and goat

Eggs, Dairy – free range eggs, fresh cow milk cheeses
Baked Goods – Wood fired Breads, sweets using locally sourced ingredients, gluten-free goods, granola.
Prepared Foods – soups and meals to eat at market or bring home, plus pickled and fermented goods.

Other food items – Preserves made from local fruits and vegetables. Pie fillings. Marinades and sauces. Oils and vinegars. Locally roasted organic coffee beans. Bottled wine and cider.

Plus – Dog bones and treats, crafts, soaps and skin care products, and other gift items

CLICK HERE to download My local food shopping list_Bucks County Taste – perfect for planning your weekly shopping at local farms and markets.

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