May 1 may not be the official beginning of spring, but for the intents and purposes of our collective psyche, it signifies a tipping point at which we start to smile more often, chat with our neighbours, and in general stop and smell the flowers. It also signifies the return of oh-so-wonderful REAL FOOD from REAL FARMERS, who, if we’re lucky, live somewhere in our vicinity. Because, let’s face it, by now, we’ve often forgotten what a really, really fresh carrot, tomato, or strawberry even tastes like. That first bite of the real thing is a revelation each and every year.
Cue the locavore movement: sourcing out food that is grown, raised or produced locally. Your local neighbourhood markets are just beginning to sprout the bounty of the season. Now is the time to get out of the grocery store whenever you can. Look at a trip to a farmer's market as the adult version of a really excellent field trip.
Depending on your region, here are a few highlights of what's coming into season right now:
Fiddleheads
Asparagus
Arugula
Cherries
Fennel
Mint
Parsley
Green Onions
Radishes
Spring Lettuce
Strawberries
Carrots
Artichokes
Tulips (for the table, of course!)
As spring progresses into summer, the choices just keep getting better (a fall market at the peak of harvest season is one of my top favourite things on the planet). A trip to your local promises a day’s shopping laden with all sorts of locally produced goodies, fresh-as-can-be produce, and inspiration for your next few meals. As a bonus, you'll be supporting your local economy. So get out there, grab your reusable bags, release your inner hippie, and get back to the roots of where our food comes from!
