Smart market shopping requires planning, and a little creativity. Here in the Williamson County and Round Rock area, there are several local Farmer’s Markets to choose from. We stay up to date with the dates, locations and times for each of them via our Discover Round Rock newsletter we get every Thursday, but you can check-out their website for all the details too by going HERE.
Here are five tips to help you get the most out of your Farmer’s Market shopping trip:
1. Buy What You Need
We’ve all done it. When the first Saturday morning of Farmer’s Market Season arrives, you can hardly contain yourself, stuffing your bags with the fresh produce you’ve been missing all winter: kale, spinach, asparagus and the list goes on! But, fast-forward a week or so later, and there sits spoiled veggies in your fridge that you just didn’t use in time. Be aware of how much you’re purchasing, and you will end up with extra space in your fridge and money in your pocket.
2. Be the Man (or Woman) Without a Plan
The beauty of markets is that they change from week to week in terms of availability and quality. Instead of shopping on a mission, think outside the box. Why not pick up the best looking items you see, and build meals around them? It saves you from getting stuck in the rotating menu rut, and your kids will enjoy being a part of the decision making process.
3. Shop Around
Don’t be tempted to buy from the first vendor you see. Location at larger markets plays a big part in pricing. The tables nearest the entrance and exits typically have higher prices than those farther from the periphery. Take a leisurely walk through (aren’t you supposed to be enjoying yourself anyway?) and make a mental note of the deals.
4. Go Early For Selection, But Later for Price
To score some of those hard to find items, be sure you’re there, canvas bag in hand of course, when the open bells chime. Otherwise, wait until it’s almost closing time, and you could pay next to nothing for overripe fruit (for canning) or wilted veggies (perfect for soup stock). Don’t be afraid to bargain.
5. Ask the Experts
Who better to answer questions about that curious looking item on the table, how to cook it, and the best way to store it, than the person who grew said item? Farmers are usually more than happy to introduce you to new produce. And just maybe, you might walk away with an old family recipe.
“Success is never final. Failure is never fatal. Courage is what counts.” ~Winston Churchill
_______________________________________
Keep it Fit,
Fitness Mastermind, LLC
No comments:
Post a Comment