Farmers markets are almost ready to open. There’s something about shopping outdoors and having conversations with people who take part in growing the produce. However, there are some important things to remember when shopping at a farmers market.
First, ask the farmers questions and get acquainted with their produce. Enjoy any food samples that might be available. If recipes are available for sampling, ask how the recipe was prepared and for a copy. Bring clean bags to carry produce.
Do not handle produce you do not intend to purchase. Do not bring a pet to the market; it’s a food safety precaution for everyone. Do not be afraid of a little dirt; wash fresh produce just prior to preparation in clean, drinkable water.
Today, pre-washed produce lines the produce aisle. Produce at the market may come with a little dirt. In some cases, carrots and beets might even come with the green tops attached.
Here are some reminders when preparing produce:
• Wash produce in clean drinkable water like stated above; there is no need to purchase any cleaners or soaps.
• Check the temperature of the water.
• Adjust so the water is slightly warmer that the temperature of the produce. This will enable the dirt to come off more easily.
Here is how to store some commonly purchased produce:
• For green beans, remove visible dirt with a vegetable brush before refrigeration. Don’t wash or snap off the ends before storing. Beans will keep for five to seven days in a plastic bag.
• Store beets unwashed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper where they will keep for two weeks.
To learn more about how to store your farmer’s market produce, call 570-825-1701 and ask for a copy of Pennsylvania Produce Guide.
Here is a recipe for a very common vegetable at farmers markets: cucumbers. Feel free to substitute canned mandarin oranges instead of fresh oranges which might be unavailable.
Simple Mexican Salad
2 cucumbers
2 oranges
1 lemon or lime (the juice)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Wash the cucumbers, oranges and lemon or lime under cold running water. Slice the cucumbers. Peel and cut the oranges into small pieces. Place cucumber slices and orange pieces into a medium-sized bowl. Add chili powder, lemon or lime juice and salt (optional).
