Do you want the best money can buy? Or are you the type of person who loves a good deal? Either way, visiting the farmers market is a great way to get the most value for your money when it comes to fresh produce.
The USDA reports that, on average, the cost of fresh fruit and vegetables at farmers markets is lower than at grocery stores. Because it is picked at the peak of ripeness, produce from the farmers market is bursting with flavor and nutrients.
Although the market season has just started, a variety of delicious spring delights are available. Vancouver Farmers Market manager Nathan Swango says “the salad greens and arugula are in and the radishes are yummy. Red rhubarb is available now. We’ve had some early strawberries and sugar snap peas already, so expect those to be plentiful in the next few weeks. We may even see some zucchini next week.”
Arugula can be a little bitter, but its peppery taste goes well in a salad mixed with milder greens and a sweet vinaigrette dressing.
Surprisingly, radishes can be roasted just like other root vegetables. Simply trim off the ends and slice them in half. Toss one bunch of radishes with about 1 teaspoon olive oil and ¼ teaspoon salt. Roast on a baking sheet in an oven at 425 degrees for 10 minutes. Place in a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon fresh herbs. For herbs, try your choice of cilantro, basil, parsley, rosemary, mint, thyme, sage or tarragon.
We are lucky to have several programs in our community to make it even easier for people on a limited income to enjoy the bountiful harvest grown by our local farmers. For example, the Farmers Market Nutrition Program provides coupons to low-income women, children and seniors that can be redeemed to buy fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs.
The Vancouver, Camas, Salmon Creek and Battle Ground farmers markets all accept SNAP (food stamp) benefits. Simply visit the SNAP/EBT stand at the market, swipe your EBT card and receive wooden tokens, then use the tokens to buy unprepared foods.
Tokens can also be used to buy seeds and plants that grow food. Growing your own fresh herbs is a great way to save money without compromising taste. Even the most discerning child has a hard time resisting homegrown vegetables.
SNAP customers can double their dollars thanks to the Fresh Match program. For every $5 in tokens purchased, customers get $5 more in Fresh Match tokens (up to $10 per card) for buying fresh fruits and vegetables at the market.
“Being able to get Fresh Match, I was able to eat and stock up on healthy foods for the summer and winter,” says Judy Nuttman, a regular at the Salmon Creek market. “Fresh Match is a very good program, which helps others to eat much healthier and helps them to also stretch their food stamps, too.”
Throughout the season the WSU Extension Master Food Preservers will be featuring Market Fresh Finds by highlighting a fruit or vegetable available at our local farmers markets. Check back to find out how to select, store and preserve produce safely. Next week, asparagus is on the menu.
The benefits of visiting the farmers market go well beyond the pocketbook. They connect farmers, families and communities, provide a social space and create healthier communities. Take time this season to celebrate the treasure of our local farmers markets with the gift of good food and good company.
For recipes and serving suggestions for farmers market produce to enjoy with your friends and family, check out Chef Scotty’s Market Fresh Recipes at ext100.wsu.edu/clark/?p=8163.
Find out more about the FreshMatch program at www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/snap-farmers-markets.
Zena Edwards is the Food Safety & Nutrition faculty for Washington State University Clark County. For additional recipes, food preservation and food safety information, visit http://ext100.wsu.edu/clark/?p=1134. Call master food preservers’ help line at 360-397-6060, ext. 5366, or join the Facebook discussion group “WSU Home Food Preservers – Clark County.”
