*Featured Photo by Kacey O'Brien 

 

It’s nearing that time of year when a majority of produce and greenery is at the perfect quality for picking. The results of such hard-working labor are then brought to a wide assortment of tables and booths with the hopes of being purchased by the general public.

 

Yes, Farmers Markets all across the Lake George Area will soon be opening their wares, providing a plentiful variety of fruits, vegetables, and other artisanal foods that aim to please. If you’re new to the region or are simply looking to explore some delectable options, here’s an overview of what local farmers and growers often supply.

 

(Side Note: While most local markets are typically available from June-October, some are already open, with varying hours and days of availability. For specific times, click on a specific example below.)

Lake George Area Farmers Markets

View All

Why You Should Choose Farmers Markets

Before exploring produce options, some may feel conflicted about considering a local supplier, especially with the growing costs of food production in recent years. While some may argue that locally-grown choices are more expensive than the typical grocery store, this is not necessarily the case (there are actually some great deals out there). Rather, here are a few reasons why Farmers Markets are quite beneficial.

 

  1. Higher Quality – Even if, theoretically, the cost at a Farmers Market may be slightly higher, there is no doubt that the quality soars above the competition. Instead of sitting in plastic shelves and boxes for potential weeks on end, the choices at Farmers Markets are grown and cared for by locals. No need to worry about an imminent expiration date, and a better taste. What’s not to love?
  1. Local Sources – Do you really know where that bagful from the store came from? When you shop at a local Farmers Market, you know that the options available were grown by a member of the community (perhaps the same one selling them to you.) There’s a saying that food tastes better when you know where it came from.
  1. Support Small Businesses - Speaking of community, the money you spend at a Farmers Market goes back to local farmers and families. In days where expenses are on the rise, any and all support helps keep these markets going and, of course, provides such delicious and nutritious foods.

Vibrant Vegetables

There’s a wide variety of vegetables often grown in the area, but here are a few standouts that will for sure delight your taste buds.

 

Corn

There's nothing like a good Corn on the Cob for that summer BBQ. It’s usually sold by the husk, but it’s well worth the effort of peeling for that super fresh seasonal taste.

 

Lettuce

The classic component of salads. However, Lettuce is also used in other main staple dishes, such as soups, sandwiches and wraps. It’s a classic ‘healthy green’ for a reason.

 

Mushrooms

The edible variations of fungi make for a perfect complement to many dishes, including meats, salads, stir-fry, vegetable mixes and many more.

 

Onions

Though peeling one may make you tear up, the Onion is an indispensable ingredient in a surplus of recipes. Can be roasted, grilled, caramelized, battered and deep-fried, or even served raw.

 

Squash

There’s actually quite a few different types of squashes – Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Butternut Squash, even Pumpkins and Gourds.  Squash is certainly a favorite vegetable to have at the dinner table, but is also used in a variety of soups and breads.

Freshest Fruits

The Lake George Area is also rich in fruits full of flavor. Here are a few examples that you can expect to find.

 

Apples

Though Apples are technically in-season more towards late summer into fall, they are still a primary staple amongst many of the orchards and farms in the area. Expect to encounter many apple-based desserts and ciders.

(*Also stay tuned for the Apple Festival on Friday September 13th at the Warrensburg Recreation Field*)

 

Blueberries

Small in size, big on taste! Blueberries are also highly nutritious and are one of the leading sources of antioxidants. Yogurts and jellies with blueberries make for a delicious part of your diet.

 

Peppers

(Peppers are technically classified as both a Fruit AND a Vegetable interestingly enough.) In addition to Sautéed and Roasted dishes, peppers are also used in lots of sauces and seasonings. The perfect ingredient to spice things up.

 

Strawberries

The sweetness of Strawberries is perfect for any cake or other dessert recipes you have. Or, you can just eat them as they are for an ideal snack.

(*Also stay tuned for the Strawberry Festival on Friday June 21st at the Warrensburg Recreation Field*)

 

Tomatoes

An excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes make a terrific addition to any salad or sauce, but Fried Tomato is also considered a delicacy by many locals.

Other Market Standouts

While fruits and vegetables are often the most common occurrences at the local Farmers Markets, don’t be surprised if you find a lot of local award-winning favorites such as Maple and Honey Products, Homemade Wines and Cheeses and even Craft Beers. There’s a world of tastes and flavors out there for you to explore.

Want an immediate taste of the local action? Check out these nearby Farm-to-Table Eateries:

Local Farm-to-Table Eateries