In the mood for some extra-fresh food? A farmers market is the perfect fit -- here's how to make the most of your next visit.
1. Go early. The early bird adage is certainly true at the farmers market. A lot of the good stuff, like those tasty heirloom tomatoes and strawberries, tend to go fast.
2. Develop relationships. Farmers, like any other hard worker, love to be appreciated for their work. Find your favorites -- and don't be surprised if they start to save you special items after a while.
3. Toss the list. Don't go to the market with a specific list of needs. Let Mother Nature be in charge of the shopping list -- check out the offerings and then figure out what to buy and make.
4. Try new things. Dairy can be confusing because there is often more than one vendor. Not sure which one is best? Taste a different one every week until you find a fave.
5. Bring a friend. Sharing and tasting different products from your area can get your creative cooking “juices” flowing -- together you can open yourselves up to new ingredients.
Nestpert: Alex Guarnaschelli is the host of Food Network's Alex's Day Off, recurring judge on "Chopped," and Executive Chef of Butter Restaurant in New York City.
-- The Nest Editors
May 18, 2010
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