This article has been written by Alicia Jordan, a partner of the Alabama Farm to ECE Coalition.
Spring at the farmers market is full of vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and the excitement of new seasonal produce. It’s the perfect time to get kids involved in meal preparation—starting with selecting their own ingredients at the market! Cooking together helps children develop confidence in the kitchen, explore new flavors, and build a lifelong appreciation for fresh, local food.
This month, we’re sharing simple, kid-friendly recipes that make the most of spring’s bounty. These easy meals encourage hands-on learning, creativity, and quality time around the table.
Farmers Market Finds for Kids
Before heading to the kitchen, let children help with picking out fresh ingredients. Here are some springtime favorites:
✔ Strawberries – Sweet and easy to snack on
✔ Carrots – Crunchy and great for dipping
✔ Lettuce & Spinach – Perfect for salads or wraps
✔ Radishes – Colorful with a mild peppery bite
✔ Spring Onions – A mild introduction to fresh herbs
✔ Farm-Fresh Eggs – A staple for easy breakfast and snack ideas
Kid-Friendly Spring Recipes
🌿 Rainbow Farmers Market Salad
A simple, colorful salad kids can assemble themselves.
📌 Ingredients:
Mixed lettuce or spinach
Sliced strawberries
Shredded carrots
Sliced radishes
Crumbled cheese (feta or cheddar)
Light vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing
👩🍳 Kids’ Task: Let them wash the greens, mix the ingredients, and drizzle the dressing.
🍓 Berry Yogurt Parfaits
A no-cook, easy-to-layer snack or breakfast.
📌 Ingredients:
Fresh strawberries (or other berries)
Plain or vanilla yogurt
Granola or crushed nuts
Drizzle of honey (optional)
👩🍳 Kids’ Task: Let them layer the ingredients in a cup and top with granola.
🍳 Scrambled Market Eggs with Fresh Herbs
A simple way to introduce kids to cooking eggs.
📌 Ingredients:
Farm-fresh eggs
Chopped spring onions or herbs
Margarine or olive oil
Salt & pepper
👩🍳 Kids’ Task: Teach them how to crack eggs, whisk them, and sprinkle herbs before cooking the eggs in a skillet or baking them in the oven.
Making Farmers Market Cooking Fun
Let kids explore – Encourage them to pick something new each visit. When they are a part of the decision-making, they are more likely to try new foods and recipes!
Get hands-on – Washing, tearing, and mixing are great starter tasks for young children in the kitchen. These tasks not only strengthen their fine motor skills but help them feel included in the preparation of a meal or snack!
Keep it simple – No complicated steps, just fresh ingredients and fun! Provide simple and easy-to-follow steps for young children while cooking and encourage them to have fun with it.
Cooking together is more than just preparing a meal—it’s a chance to create memories, build healthy habits, and connect with the food that nourishes us. Next time you visit the farmers market, let your child take the lead in choosing ingredients and making something delicious!
