By Cathy Branciaroli, Food Correspondent, The Times
One of the joys of shopping at farmers markets is picking out your own produce.
As farmers market season kicks off again I am excited to reconnect with the farmers whose produce graces my summer dinners.
A trip to one of these markets can yield nearly all that’s needed to make a spring dinner – fresh vegetables, local meats, tender herbs and salad fixings. For good measure, pick up a loaf of just-baked bread to round off the meal. Once underway, each week’s market promises the opportunity to try new items and new recipes, not to mention experiencing the freshest produce one can buy at the height of seasonal ripeness.
According to the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA), farmers markets are very popular with consumers who are looking to eat healthier . They said that Chester County boasts an abundance of farmers markets offering great varieties of goods including everything from fruits, vegetables and meats to specialty products like jams and baked goods.
In order to get the best farmers market experience here are some suggestions:
Arrive early
Markets tend to be less crowded when they first open and sell out of the more popular items as the day progresses. Don’t take the chance that sellers might be out of products you are looking for.
Ask questions
Don’t be shy. Farmers are knowledgeable about their produce and can offer great advice on how to prepare an item, suggestions on pairing with other ingredients and even recipes.
Experiment
Rather than reaching only for the fresh tomatoes or corn, ask about what is being offered based on what is in season. Discover new foods and check out interesting varieties.
Bring your own recycled bags and cash
Be a friend to the environment and the sellers by bringing your own bags or baskets. While most vendors can process credit cards, cash is always welcome and speeds your visit through the various stalls.
Considering the great abundance of healthful local produce and delicious homemade goods what better choice than to shop farmers markets this summer. There are also a wide variety of farm stands where consumers can buy an equally wide range of local foods
Here is a listing of local farmers markets courtesy of the Chester County Agricultural Development Council:
Anselma Farmers and Artisans Market
Historic Mill, Route 401
Chester Springs, PA
Wednesdays 2PM – 6PM
Artisan Exchange West Chester
208 Carter Dr.
West Chester, PA
Saturdays 10M – 2PM
Coatesville Farmers Market Association
Gateway Park, Routes 82 & 30
Saturdays 10AM – 1PM
Downingtown Farmers Market
Kerr Park
Thursdays 3PM – 7PM
East Goshen Farmers Market
East Goshen Park
West Chester, PA
Thursdays 3PM – 7PM
Kennett Square Farmers Market
Downtown Kennett Square
Fridays 2PM – 6PM
London Britain Township Market
Nichol Park
Landenberg, PA
Fridays 2PM – 6PM
Malvern Farmers Market
Burke Park
Saturdays 9AM – 1PM
New Garden Growers Market
Near New Garden Township Park
Saturdays 9AM – 1PM
Oxford Village Market
3rd & Locust St.
Tuesdays 12:30PM – 6PM
Phoenixville Farmers Market
Under the Veterans Memorial
Saturdays 9AM – 1PM
The Farmers Market at Elverson
Livingood Park at Rt. 23
Saturdays 9AM – 1PM
West Chester Growers Market
Church Street Parking Lot
Saturdays 9AM – 1PM
West Grove Farmers Market
Harmony Park
Thursdays 2PM – 6PM
Cathy Branciaroli also writes about her adventures in the kitchen on her award-winning blog Delaware Girl Eats
Please note the hours for the Kennett Square Farmers Market changed this season. The new hours are from 3pm to 7pm on Fridays. Thanks!