What You Can Expect to Find in a Farmer’s Market in June

They key to shopping farmer’s markets is to embrace the season.  It’s not like the grocery store where you’ll find oranges shipped in from Australia or cantaloupe from Mexico.  Most of the food has been grown within 100 miles of the market, so your climate and soil will dictate what you’ll find.  That being said, once you wrap your mind around that, you’ll totally be able to savor the season.

I thought it might be kind of fun to arm you with a little monthly guild to the farmer’s market.  Keep in mind, it will vary a bit from state to state, but in general, it will hold true.
What You’ll Likely See in June:

• Asparagus
• Radishes
• Lettuce
• Endive
• Kale
• Arugula
• Cabbage
• Spinach
• Beets
• Strawberries
• Cherries
• Artichokes
• Onions
• Raspberries
• Broccoli
• Broccoli Raab
• Rhubarb
• Sugar Snap Peas
• Green Beans {toward the end of the month}
• Garlic {toward the end of the month}
• Mushrooms
• Fresh cheese {both cow and goat}
• Milk
• Artisan breads
• Fresh Tortillas
• Farm Fresh Eggs
• Sausages and Meats
• Fresh Herbs
• Flowers {both picked and for planting}

If you are new the the farmer’s market scene, challenge yourself to create an entire meal from what you find at your local farmer’s market.  Fresh sausage or kielbasa out on the grill with sauteed veggies–and a bowl of raspberries for dessert, maybe? Omelets for dinner, anyone?

There is something really connecting about buying food grown locally and preparing it for a meal.  I know it sounds all warm and fuzzy, but seriously, I highly recommend it.

~Mavis

Want to know how to choose the best of what the farmer’s market has to offer?  Check out Choosing the Best Produce at the Farmer’s Market for tips.