Tips for a successful farmers market trip

Even though it's raining on this first day of spring I can't help but to look forward to whats coming. If you know me you know how much I hate the sun and heat HOWEVER.... I am going to focus on all the good the spring and summer bring. Fresh veggies and fruit a plenty! I don't know about you but we have a small but good farmers market every Thursday and Saturday once the sun comes out. Here are some tips for a successful trip to your local farmers market!

Shop early or shop late~

Shop early for the freshest selection. The best stuff will disappear quickly. Especially if you have local restaurants that shop there too. Chefs and bakers need bulk and will wipe out all the good stuff early. If your looking for first pick and lots of variety early is the best choice for you.

Or..

Not an early bird? That's okay too! Shop within the last hour. Farmers will often offer deep discounts at the end of the day to avoid hauling it all back.  You may not get the brightest prettiest veg but its still good stuff and who doesn't like a great deal? 

Speak up!

Don't be shy. Ask questions, lots of them. See something you don't recognize? Ask what it is and how to eat it. See something you are not sure you will like? Ask to try it! Good farmers love to share what they are passionate about and love the opportunity to build repeat customers. Or just not sure how to use something? Ask what kinds of things they use it for. You can get great recipes or cooking tips straight from the farmers!

Don't bring big bills

Most farmers markets are cash only. If they do offer credit card payments it costs them even more, so try to always pay cash regardless.  Bring mostly small bills. It helps to have just the right amount.  I feel bad taking all their ones when I buy 2.00 in herbs and pay with a 20.00. It often times will leave you buying more then you need so you can spend your 10.00 or 20.00 and then you end up not saving money but spending more then you planned.

Pick the not so pretty variety

Most people dash straight to the most uniform, shiny, perfect fruit and vegetables. I always go for the oddest looking varieties . They often taste the best and cost a lot less too. Bugs also go for the sweetest fruit. So try and pick the ones that look like the hungry caterpillar got a hold of first. They will have the sweetest taste. Do you juice? I do! And getting a great deal on a lot of ugly tomatoes makes a lot of great tasting juice!

Buy in bulk

You will get a better deal the more you buy. Great for canning or freezing. If you have a party you have to prepare a dish for, plan around food you can buy at the farmers market. Pre-make sauces so you have on hand for a quick pasta in a pinch. 

Shop around

Many stands will offer the same fruit. Don't be afraid to shop around and find the best price and selection. Often times prime location stands will charge a lot more for quick impulse buys. So take your time! I always walk around the entire market once before I decided what I want and where I want to get it from. 

Bring the whole family!

If you have kids, bring them along!. They will always find something they want.  So why not let them pick a few things. They will get to try something healthy without you trying to convince them to try it. They get what they want and you get what you want (them eating their fruit and veggies)