When visiting the farmers market, even in autumn, Mackenzie Dougherty, RD, knows exactly where to start — heading straight for fresh vegetables.
“To avoid feeling overwhelmed, come with a plan. That way, you won’t end up buying too much or getting stuck with something you won’t use,” she suggests. Having a plan in mind helps cut through the selection, allowing you to grab familiar favorites, whether they are tomatoes, beets or corn. These seasonal staples taste best when they’re freshly harvested, making them a must-have for their flavor and texture.
The farmers market is a great place to try something new. Each time Dougherty visits, she picks one or two seasonal vegetables she hasn’t cooked with before, adding more variety to her meals and trying new flavors.
For anyone seeking healthier choices, Dougherty recommends focusing on any produce. The wide range of fruits and vegetables offers great nutritional value, but variety is key. Whether it’s trying a new vegetable or sticking to your go-to favorites, the farmers market seasonal offerings make healthy eating fun and delicious. During the fall, apples, squashes and root vegetables are abundant and tasty options.
“It’s easy to get distracted by baked goods and food booths, but there’s a trade-off: you’re supporting local businesses and the community,” she adds.
When it comes to buying local and organic produce, Dougherty is all in. She subscribes to a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) to make sure she gets fresh and local food regularly, even if she can’t make it to the farmers market every week. “The variety and quality of these items keep my meals exciting all season long,” Dougherty says.
Ultimately, whether you’re a regular at the farmers market or a first-timer, Dougherty’s advice is simple: enjoy the experience, support local farmers and keep your focus on fresh, nutritious produce.