Shop Local, Eat Fresh at the Saratoga Farmers' Market | Food, Crafts, Music in Saratoga Springs

Shop Local, Eat Fresh

seasonal produce

Shop local, eat fresh, save money

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By Julia Howard

It’s a common misconception that eating locally grown and produced food means spending more. In addition, rising food prices create tension around shopping and the strain on our wallets. Shopping and saving at the farmers’ market require a different approach than the one you use at the grocery store. With these tips, it’s easy and affordable to start enjoying the benefits of shopping local and eating fresh.

  • Skip the shopping list

While a shopping list might keep you on track at the grocery store, it could inhibit your shopping at the farmers’ market and even make you spend more than you intend. Many products are consistent at the farmers’ market; however, seasonal produce are changeable. Shop with an open mind, find abundant produce that week, and create meals with those main ingredients in mind. 

Gomez Veggie Ville, photo courtesy of Pattie Garrett
  • Shop what’s in season

There are many benefits to buying fruit and vegetables in season. They are fresh, taste better, are more nutritious, and are often more affordable. Local farmers have a variety of overwintered produce like kale, beets, and mushrooms. Stored products such as apples, celeriac, and onions are available from the last growing season. And, as spring progresses, new items like arugula, bok choy, and pea shoots arrive weekly.

  • Ask about seconds

Perfection is overrated, especially when it comes to food. At the farmers’ market, it’s worthwhile to check with farmers and vendors for slightly bruised produce or items that don’t quite meet restaurant standards. Your food will taste just as good!

Pork and Greens, photo provided (1)
  • Know your farmer

Building relationships at the farmers’ market doesn’t necessarily mean earning deals and discounts. However, getting to know your farmer brings a new appreciation for food. Farmers offer cooking instructions and can help you find the most for your money. 

  • Go regardless of the weather

The weather can undoubtedly affect the foot traffic at any local business, especially as the farmers’ market is outdoors for six months of the year. Whether snow or rain, fewer customers mean that you can spend a little more time talking to farmers to build a relationship and talk about food.

Local farms and businesses appreciate the support from the community and provide many ways to make their products accessible and affordable.

This weeks recipe: Whatever Soup

Spring Spinach Pasta Salad

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Adapted from the recipe by Barefeet in the Kitchen, shared by My Saratoga Kitchen Table

Serves: 8

 

INGREDIENTS

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

  • 8 ounces freshly cut pasta*, fettuccine, pappardelle or ravioli
  • ½ small red onion*, thinly sliced and cut into 1-inch pieces, about ¼ cup
  • 3 large garlic cloves*, minced
  • 6 Tablespoons olive oil*
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach*
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes*, halved
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • grated Parmesan cheese*

 

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain, but do not rinse the pasta.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, place the onions and garlic in a large bowl. Add the olive oil and vinegar to cover the onions. When the pasta has been drained, add it to the mixing bowl and toss well. Add the spinach and tomatoes.
  3. Toss everything together to mix well and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

 

NOTES:

Add your favorite seasonal herbs, vegetables, or meat: basil, mushrooms, sausage, bacon, anything goes!