The Seasonal Taste

You ate them in February, from half a continent away, and they were flat and bland—passable, but nothing to write home about. Now, you take a bite from one grown half a mile away, and it’s spectacular—sweet, juicy, and flavorful.

We’re talking in this particular instance about strawberries and tomatoes, but we could say the same thing about any of a dozen produce items you’ll find at your local farmer’s market now. 'Tis the season to eat fresh, as the tender new growth of spring ripens into the rich abundance of summer. So why settle for "so-so" when you can savor the sensational? Consider the benefits of eating foods at the peak of their season. Seasonal foods…

• serve up the most flavor.
• pack the biggest nutritional punch.
• boost your budget.
• are  tied to the special days and seasons of our lives:

 The out-of-season produce we buy has often traveled hundreds of miles or more by the time it reaches our kitchens—with a corresponding loss of flavor and nutrition and an increase in wax coatings, chemical ripening agents, and other preservatives.
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In practical terms, this means that you’ll get the most nutrition—not to mention the most affordable enjoyment—by eating seasonally.

Follow these basic guidelines for optimal nutrition and taste:

• In spring, pick the new growth of the season: tender leafy vegetables such as spinach, Romaine or leaf lettuces, Swiss chard, and early peas, as well as fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, and dill.
• For summer, try lighter produce, with fruits such as strawberries, pears, apples, and plums, and vegetables such as summer squash, broccoli, corn, and cauliflower. You can also incorporate other summer-type herbs, such as mint or cilantro.

As you choose the best foods of the season, remember that the healthiest and most enjoyable diet involves diversity. Although you may have to compromise sometimes due to convenience and time constraints, try as much as possible to make shopping at a Farmers Market and cooking an adventure, something you can enjoy or share with family members.

Let the backdrop of the seasons be your guide to happy and healthy eating—you’ll find that Mother Nature does indeed know best!

The Salem NH Farmers Market is a community event offering a variety of local farms (two of which use no pesticides on their plants ) bringing their harvest to share with our community. Come and enjoy the flavors of buying fresh and shopping local every Sunday from 10-2 hosted by Lake Street Garden Center.

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For more information visit us at www.salemnhfarmersmarket.com

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