As winter settles into the mountains of western North Carolina, you may think there isn’t much produce to get from local farmers. Believe it or not, there are many winter crops that flourish in our region and eating what is in season in your geographical region has been shown to be wonderful for your health.
This winter, local farmers are sharing produce such as apples, beets, carrots, collards, herbs, kale, spinach, cold hardy greens, all potatoes and turnips.
Besides their incredible immune boosting properties, many winter crops keep longer as well, meaning you can stock up.
Collards, kale, herbs and spinach like to be kept in airtight containers with a cloth or paper towel (damp for herbs).
Apples, Carrots, Turnips like being in the lowest crisper drawer with a damp towel
Potatoes like to be stored in a cool, dry, dark place but not in the refrigerator. A pantry or cabinet away from the stove is a great option.
Are these hearty, vitamin rich fruits and vegetables in your fridge?
If you are struggling to come up with recipe for these, here are some of our favorites:
Roasted beets, carrots and turnips with fresh or dried rosemary and garlic
Kale + Sausage with potatoes
Green smoothies with spinach, kale or collards (toss in an apple for some sweetness)
And really, what can’t you do with a potato?
In the coming months, some of our producers will also be selling starter plants, empowering you to grow your groceries right in your backyard. Which veggie do you eat the most of? What if you had it at your fingertips? Be sure to be on our mailing list for updates!
If none of this produce struck your fancy, remember our marketplace always has:
Meat
Dairy
Eggs
Tea
Chocolate
Hummus
Vegan Protein
And many other locally made products
Stay happy + well this winter!