Don’t let those gorgeous fruits and veggies go to waste! Here’s what to do with them. There’s something special about strolling through a farmers’ market on a warm summer morning. The colors are bright, the food smells fresh and everything offered just seems a little healthier and more enticing than when you’re shopping in a grocery store.
Farmers markets and outdoor farm stands are typically packed with seasonal fruits and vegetables that are picked at their peak, which translates to better flavor and more nutrients. From juicy tomatoes to crisp greens and sweet berries, many foods sold at these markets are full of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants that support your heart, digestion and overall health.
But once you get home with bags full of fresh finds (often more than you planned on buying!), you may not be sure what to do with everything before it goes bad. Here are some simple tips to help you make the most of your farmers market haul:
- Build meals around what you bought. Instead of planning meals first, let your produce guide you. If you picked up zucchini, peppers, mushrooms, radishes, greens or other fresh goodies, turn them into stir-fries, fajitas, veggie-packed wraps or healthy salads, where the produce is the star of the show.
- Add veggies to everything. Look for ways to sneak vegetables into foods you already enjoy. Toss spinach into eggs, add extra tomatoes to sandwiches or mix chopped veggies into pasta dishes. You can even mix zucchini or carrots into baked goods!
- Snack smarter with fresh fruit. Keep a bowl of washed fruit on your counter or in the fridge. Berries, peaches and grapes make easy snacks that satisfy your sweet tooth while supplying your body with fiber and vitamins.
- Mix and match for easy sides. Create quick side dishes by combining a few items. Think sliced cucumbers with farm-fresh tomatoes or grilled vegetables tossed together. These simple combos add color and nutrients to any meal.
- Use herbs to your advantage. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley and cilantro are often easy to find at farmers markets. Add them to salads, sprinkle over cooked dishes or mix into dressings for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Try simple flavor boosts. Fresh produce doesn’t need much to taste great. A drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of herbs can bring out natural flavors without adding extra salt or sugar.
- Wash and prep right away. When you get home, take a few minutes to rinse, dry and chop your produce. Store it in clear containers so it’s easy to grab. When fruits and veggies are ready to eat, you’re more likely to use them.
- Store produce properly. Fruits and vegetables need different storage methods. Leafy greens do best in the fridge, while tomatoes and peaches can stay on the counter until ripe. Proper storage helps food last longer and keeps it tasting its best.
- Freeze what you can’t use. If you bought more than you can eat in a few days, don’t let it go to waste. Many fruits and veggies freeze well. Berries, corn and chopped peppers, for example, can all be frozen for use in smoothies, soups or sautés.
Bringing home fresh food from a farmers’ market is a great way to support local growers and take care of your health at the same time. With a little planning and a few simple habits, you can turn your weekend summer haul into easy, nourishing meals and snacks all week long.
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