Even though I no longer live in California, I still go to the Dupont Farmer’s market each week and thought I’d share some of my favorite vendors here in DC as well as answer some of your questions about summer produce.
Q: What’s In Season Right Now (this one goes out to you, Q!)?
Here are a few of my favorite varieties of summer produce:
May: Apricots, Asparagus, Beets, Broccoli Rabe, Chard, Kale/Lettuce, Mushrooms, Ramps, Radishes
June: Avocados, Blueberries, Nectarines, Raspberries, Rhubarb, Salad Greens, Sugar & Snap Peas
Q: Who are the best vendors in DC?
Spring Valley Farm & Orchard: The best diversity of seasonal produce–right now I love their apples and ramps, which are a cross between a leek and a scallion.
Sunnyside Farm and Orchard: They have amazing pre-prepared soups, dips, and salads. My favorite is their lentil salad with sweet potato with kale and their homemade beet hummus.
Soupergirl: They have the best vegan soups in town! I love their Armenian lentil soup that uses dried apricot for a hint of added sweetness.
Chris’ Marketplace: They have hands down one of the best summer gazpacho’s I’ve ever had, but their Maryland crab cakes are also delicious if you want a treat.
Chaia Farm to Taco: If you’re in the mood for lunch, they make the best vegetarian tacos using homemade tortillas and fresh, natural ingredients like greens and pickled lemon. My favorite is the creamy roasted potato with pickled onions, although the market mushroom and 5 greens ones are also incredible.
Q: I love the idea of fresh produce, but how can I shop at the FM every week without emptying out my wallet every time?
1. Plan ahead. Go with a shopping plan and try to stick to it! It also helps to build relationships with the vendors you like, who might give you a discount or throw in some extra produce every now and then
2. Buy in bulk. When you find something you love (spring strawberries are my favorite!), you can almost always freeze your fruit to carry you through the next season.
3. Bring cash and small bills. Not only will this help you spend less, but it’ll make checking out easier for both you and the vendor
4. Shop at closing. While some stands might be picked over by closing, vendors usually prefer to discount what’s left rather than taking it home
5. Invest in a farm share. This is a little different, but I love getting a farm share each week! I use a service called From the Farmer. and for $35/week, they’ll bring a basket filled with 6-8 super fresh fruits and vegetables to your doorstep. All of the produce is farmed locally in Virginia and they’ll even include instructions on how to store everything and suggested recipes. They’ll also throw in fresh eggs and bread. It’s so much fun and a great way to support a local business while trying some new produce that you wouldn’t try otherwise.
Leave a Reply