Farmer's Markets: Fresher Foods for a Healthier Diet

One way to eat healthier is to take advantage of all the wonderful fresh vegetables and fruits sold at your local farmer's market. Eating locally grown produce is also a way to help reduce your impact on the planet.

To get the right mix of nutrients, the USDA recommends adults eat at least two cups of fruit and 2-1/2 cups of vegetables per day. For the greatest health benefit, you should eat a variety of vegetables each week including the dark green, orange, starch, legumes and other vegetables.

According to EatLocal.net, locally grown produce is usually sold within 24 hours of being harvested. Enjoying fruits and vegetables at their freshest also helps ensure you enjoy the most nutritional benefit, as nutritional value can decline with time. Vegetables and fruits found at a supermarket are often picked and stored for days or weeks.

Stop by your local farmer's market and discover any of natural and fresh foods such as spinach, homegrown lettuce, radishes, zucchini, tomatoes and red potatoes are likely now making a showing at your local farmer's market.

Healthy Eating Ideas for Farmer's Market Vegetables

Few meals compare to the flavor of those made from fresh produce grown by a local farmer. Try fresh spinach or zucchini sautéed with olive oil and a hint of garlic. Roasted or steamed red potatoes, potato salad made with small new potatoes and garnished with fresh herbs purchased at the farmers market. A salad made with a mix of lettuce greens, fresh cabbage and spinach.

Cook a mix of vegetables such as sugar snap peas, zucchini, onions, cabbage and other vegetables available at your local farmer's market and serve over a bed of whole grain rice. Create your own fresh salsa with cilantro, peppers and tomatoes purchased at the market.

Enjoy Low Calorie Desserts with In Season Fruits

When in season, your farmer's market might also feature fresh-grown strawberries, blueberries or raspberries. Berries are a great source of vitamins and ideal for a healthy, low-calorie dessert. For a refreshing treat try a parfait glass filled with a mix of berries and topped with low-fat vanilla yogurt and a bit of granola. Or make a strawberry banana smoothie to cool off after a busy day. Peaches, pears and apricots can be served over low-fat frozen yogurt or simply enjoyed as they are. Plums make a sweet and satisfying snack any time of day.

No matter where you live, make a point to stop by your local farmer's market weekly and buy what is available for fruits and vegetables, instead of picking up your produce at your closest supermarket. Buy some vegetables or fruits you would not normally buy and get creative. Search out new recipes to make some low-calorie, nutritious and delicious meals made from items found at your nearest farmer's market.

Sources:

http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/vegetables.html

http://www.eatlocal.net/index.html