How to Shop at a Farmers’ Market
It’s summertime which means it’s farmers’ market time. Because where else will you find velvety soft golden apricots? Or succulent vine-ripened berries? Or tomatoes that actually burst with flavor?
Whether you’re a farmers’ market newbie or an old pro, here are some tips to help you get the most of your next trip to the farmers’ market.
- Be the first one in or the last one out. For the best selection and fewest crowds, arrive when the market opens. Prime produce often sells out early. For the best bargains, go toward the end of the market when farmers often discount their produce.
- Walk around the market at least once before making any purchases. This will allow you to see what’s available and to compare prices.
- Bring your own bags and plenty of cash. Bringing your own bag is both environmentally friendly and helps farmers by saving them the extra step of bagging your produce. Sometimes farmers run out of small bills to make change. If you have $1’s, $5’s, and quarters, you’ll make their lives easier and your transaction quicker.
- Get to know your farmers. You’ll find that most farmers love to talk about their produce, so ask them questions. If organic food is important to you, then ask about their farming practices. If you’ve never cooked an artichoke, then ask the farmer how she cooks hers. Don’t know how to store those beautiful cherries? Just ask.
- Be prepared. Farmers’ markets are terribly appealing places, and without some sort of plan, you may find yourself out of cash too quickly or with significantly more food than you and your family could possibly eat. Have a general idea of how many meals you’ll be planning for that week and how long different types of produce will last.
- Try something new. Wondering what that green, grenade-like looking fruit is and how to eat it? (It’s a cherimoya, and you scoop out the rich, custard-like flesh with a spoon.) Farmers are usually happy to let you taste something new and will often suggest recipes.
- Save money by buying in bulk. We’re all looking for ways to save money. Rather than haggle over prices, ask if the farmer gives discounts when you buy in bulk. For example, one pint of raspberries may be $3, but a 3-pack is $7, so you save $2. (Just be sure you’ll be able to eat them all!)
Need to locate a farmers’ market near you?
- Go to farmersmarket.com market where farmers’ markets are listed by state.
- Visit Local Harvest which lists thousands of small farms across the US that sell directly to the consumer.
Here are some recipes that were inspired by fresh farmers’ market produce:
