It's the Height of Summer So Go Explore Your Local Farmers' Markets!

Farmers' markets are one of the oldest forms of direct marketing by small farmers. From the traditional "mercados" in the Peruvian Andes to the unique street markets in Asia, growers all over the world gather weekly to sell their produce directly to the public. In the last decade they have become a favorite marketing method for many farmers throughout the United States, and a weekly ritual for many shoppers.

I found this great article that is spot on as to why you should make farmers' markets a regular stop in your food purchases.  I couldn't have said it any better : 10 Reasons to Support Farmer's Markets

The USDA's Farmers Market Directory Search makes it easy to find the closest farmers' markets in your area.  It'll search by zip code and has other searchable criteria like winter markets, products available, payment methods, etc.  Your search includes general information on the market, where it is located as well the distance and link to website, if applicable.

For those of you that are on the go this summer and care to find local farmer's markets in your travels download Farmstand, a free smartphone app that helps you find the best locally grown food from over 8,700 farmers' markets around the world.

The Whole Meal's library is chock full of recipes that help you prepare your farmers' market finds (given that is the whole premise behind TWM; taking the guesswork out of preparing healthy, seasonal, whole foods-based meals).  Here are 4 of my favorites that really capture summer's amazing bounty:

Sandra's Super Addictive Hot Salsa:  The abundance of bell and hot peppers that can be found this time of year are uniquely combined in this tomato-less salsa that will become a staple in your house.  I slather this fresh raw salsa on everything from eggs to rice to grilled meats.

Skillet Pork Chops with Nectarines: All stone fruit are hitting their peak now through the beginning of fall so take advantage of these super sweet and juicy summer classics in savory preparations like this easy skillet dish.  Not a pork eater?  Substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even firm white fish instead.

Quinoa with Gazpacho and Red Beans:  What is not to love about a chunky summer gazpacho that tops gluten-free and quick cooking quinoa and fiber rich red beans?  While this flavorful meal can stand alone, try it as side dish to grilled sausages.  Need an excuse for simple, unique and impressible al fresco entertaining?  This would be it!

End-of-Summer Shrimp and Green Bean Salad:  A subscriber favorite and with one bite you'll see why.  Grilled shrimp, salty bacon, nutty Parmesan cheese, crisp green beans, and fragrant basil all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette?  Yes!  You need this summer through the early fall!

I know that you are ready to go find your local farmer's markets and hopefully this blog post has you pointed you in the right direction.

Be fearless and curious in the local produce that is out there and have fun serving them up to your family and friends.  Along with TWM check out cookbooks (there are so many available that are written with farmers' market produce in mind), search the internet, hit up your grandmother's recipes or just be inspired to make what feels good and healthy to you.  Biting into a raw, juicy heirloom tomato or eating an entire pint of ruby red raspberries, by the way, is allowed too!