Now that the weather is starting to warm up it’s safe to venture out of your house and grab some fresh fruits and vegetables at your local farmers’ market.
Your body is probably even craving some greens and the local market is the best place to get them.
Farmers’ markets provide seasonal and freshly grown produce typically between spring and fall.
Some areas are luckily enough to have them year-round but if not, they start to open around May and have some fantastic options.
Here are a few spring favorites to grab at your local farmer’s market:
Artichokes
Don’t let the appearance of artichokes scare you. This vegetable is easy to cook, delicious and full of nutrients. Adding artichokes to your diet helps lower cholesterol and aids in digestion. Simply, snip off the tips of the leaves and place into a pot with water and lemon juice, about halfway. Bring to a boil and let simmer until the artichoke is tender.
Asparagus
Asparagus is a superfood that is packed full of nutrients and is at its peak in April. This vegetable can be prepared raw, blanched, grilled, oven-roasted, boiled and fried. Making it an extremely versatile vegetable to add to any meal. Asparagus is high in Vitamin K which is important for blood clotting.
Cherries
Mid to late spring is when cherries start to arrive at farmers markets. Cherries contain high amounts of antioxidants and help reduce inflammation and aids in digestion. They are popularly made into pies and jams.
Spring Greens
Spring greens are probably the most prominent foods to buy at the farmers’ market. Most farmers markets are filled with arugula, kale, bok choy, collard greens, dandelion greens, parsley, spinach, spring baby lettuce, Swiss chard and pea shoots this time of year.
Strawberries
The best time to buy strawberries is during the month of April. These sweet berries are the most popular item to buy at farmers markets and typically run out fast. They are full of antioxidants that help regulate inflammation and protects the skin. Make sure you get to your farmer’s markets as early as possible before they run out.
As you can see, the farmers’ markets in spring are abundant with great fruits and vegetables. They also make shopping fun and more enjoyable.
You get to meet the people who grow your foods and even try something you’ve never heard of before – all while supporting your local economy, environment and giving your body the best nutrients possible.
