This article has been written by Alicia Jordan, a partner of the Alabama Farm to ECE Coalition. Alicia is a dedicated small farmer with a passion for sustainable agriculture and community engagement. As the owner of Boots on the Farm Consulting, LLC, she combines her background as a former early childhood education teacher with her love for the land to nurture growth in both crops and young minds.
One of my favorite rituals as a food lover and blogger is my weekly trip to the farmer’s market. There’s something magical about stepping into a space where the seasons dictate what’s available, and the produce is as fresh as it gets. If you’re not already a farmers’ market regular, let me tell you why you might want to start—and what you can expect to find this season.
The Joy of Seasonal Shopping
First off, let’s talk about why seasonal shopping is such a big deal. When you buy fruits and vegetables that are in season, you’re getting them at their peak flavor and nutritional value. They haven’t been shipped from thousands of miles away or stored in a warehouse for weeks. Instead, they’re often picked within a day or two of making it to the market. This means they taste better, look better, and are better for you.
Shopping seasonally also connects you to the natural cycle of the year. It’s a way of living in tune with the world around you. In summer, that means tomatoes bursting with flavor, sweet corn that’s almost like candy, and berries so juicy they practically explode in your mouth. As the weeks go by, you’ll start seeing the shift towards fall, with hearty squashes, crisp apples, and the first pumpkins of the season.
What’s Fresh Right Now
At this time of year, the farmers market is a cornucopia of summer’s best offerings. Here’s what I’m seeing on the tables right now:
Tomatoes: Whether you’re into heirloom varieties with their unique shapes and colors or classic red slicers, this is the time to indulge in tomato heaven. They’re perfect for fresh salads, homemade sauces, or just eating with a sprinkle of salt.
Zucchini and Summer Squash: These versatile veggies are in their prime. I love to grill them, spiralize them into noodles, or bake them into a light summer bread.
Peaches and Nectarines: Stone fruit season is in full swing, and there’s nothing quite like biting into a peach so ripe that the juice runs down your chin. These are amazing in desserts, but honestly, they’re so good fresh, you might not want to do anything more than eat them as-is.
Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are everywhere right now. They’re fantastic on their own, in smoothies, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Herbs: Fresh basil, mint, and parsley are abundant, adding a burst of flavor to everything from salads to grilled meats.
Why It Matters
Supporting local farmers by shopping at the farmers market isn’t just good for your taste buds; it’s good for the community and the environment. When you buy direct from the source, you’re helping small-scale farmers sustain their livelihoods. Plus, you’re reducing the carbon footprint that comes with long-distance food transportation.
There’s also a certain satisfaction that comes with knowing exactly where your food comes from. You can talk to the farmers about their growing practices, learn their stories, and even get tips on how to cook or store the produce.
Tips for Your Farmers Market Visit
If you’re new to the farmers market scene, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
Go early: The best produce often sells out quickly, so aim to arrive close to opening time.
Bring cash: While many vendors accept cards, cash is always appreciated and can sometimes help you get a better deal.
Bring your own bags: This reduces waste and makes it easier to carry your haul home.
Be adventurous: Try something new each week. Whether it’s a vegetable you’ve never cooked with before or a fruit you’ve never tasted, let the market inspire your meals.
Seasonal shopping at the farmers market is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle choice that brings you closer to your food and your community. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and see what’s fresh this week! You might just discover your new favorite dish.
