By Graciela Colston
As the summer sun carries on and temperatures stay high into the fall, there’s nothing quite as refreshing and cool as a nutrient-packed smoothie. The combination of vibrant flavors, invigorating ingredients, and the ability to pack in various nutritional powerhouse ingredients make smoothies the ultimate go-to treat for the summer season. If you’re wondering what you can find at the market and tips for crafting these beverages to perfection, look no further – we’ve got you covered!
Upstate New York’s produce is in its prime this time of year. When browsing the market for smoothie ingredients, you’ll stumble upon classic staples and unique finds. With their high water content, cucumbers provide a refreshing and hydrating base for your summer blends. Celery and kale bring a crisp earthiness that complements the sweetness of fruits. Raspberries are full of antioxidants and add vibrant color and tangy flavor, while beets infuse your smoothie with earthy richness.
Grab some bee pollen and raw honey from Ballston Lake Apiaries or Slate Valley Farms to bring out the natural sweetness and an extra dose of nutrition. Pick up protein at Saratoga Peanut Butter, with fun varieties and exciting flavors, including “Just Almonds” butter. Stop by the Argyle Cheese Farmer for Greek yogurt, a great option for thickening smoothies. Add apple cider vinegar from Awakened Tonics or seed-cycling blends from Moon Cycle to support total health.
Once you get home from the market, start by freezing fruits to maintain freshness and enhance creaminess. Frozen fruits result in a consistency that’s icy but drinkable. Haley Gerarde, owner of Jenny Joe’s Smoothies, emphasizes prepping in the freezer: “At Jenny Jo’s, we do not use any water or ice in our smoothies. Freezing your fruit ahead of time is a great ‘hack’ to gain that desired consistency and temperature for your smoothie without having to use ice, which essentially waters down the smoothie.” If it’s too thick, you can always add juice, coconut water, or your favorite choice of milk, plant-based or cow.
As the market stalls burst with seasonal delights, embrace the world of summertime superfood smoothies. Create your own blends, explore the market’s offerings, and craft a cooling concoction that nourishes your body and delights your taste buds.
The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open on Wednesdays from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at High Rock Park in Downtown Saratoga. Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SaratogaFarmersMarket.
