Why you should consider farmers markets- informative

I love to get up early in the summer and catch the farmers market downtown for fresh organically grown food. Considering the farmer gives the benefits of buying fresh, nutritious, delicious and locally grown foods. Many people question why they should shop at a farmer's market instead of buying organic produce from the store. The reason, most stores cannot match farmers is the variety and quality of local foods, let alone guarantee farmers a fair price. At the market the produce you find depends on what the farmers have grown and the time of year. It's a source of pride to farmers and market shoppers, like myself, that the produce available at farmers market represent the agricultural of a that particular region or state. Don't be shy around the market, try new foods you thought you would never have touched before. Experiment at home by making a dish you never have before. A meal I like to prepare after the market is 'Potato, Squash, and Goat Cheese Gratin." 

It sounds simple and it is if you pay attention to what you're doing. You'll be able to taste the difference between fresh market ingredients and boxed preserved food from the market. 

The recipe is easy and healthy. This is what I like to use. 

·         2 medium yellow summer squash 

·         4 small to medium red potatoes 

·         3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for the baking dish

·         4 ounces fresh goat cheese

·         Salt

·         Freshly ground black pepper

·         1/4 cup whole milk

·         1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

·         1 tablespoon thinly sliced basil or thyme leaves 

·         Bake in an oven, 

·         Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat to 400°F. Lightly grease a 1 1/2- to 2-quart baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil.

Click the link below If you'd like to view a video of a dietitian at a farmers market 

Farmers Market Video