Fresh and tasty from the farmer's market

On my way home from work there used to be a wonderful farmer's market. The open-air building was staffed with friendly workers and the tables and stands were chock-full of fresh produce straight from local farms. To my chagrin, it closed for good last summer. There are other farmer's markets around here, though not as conveniently located or with as good of hours as my former haunt. But you bet your bottom dollar that I'll be there squeezing melons and inspecting strawberries, because nothing tastes better than produce fresh off the farm.

Farmer's markets are sprouting up as rapidly as the fresh goodies they sell. Your best bet when visiting at a farmer's market is to crumple your shopping list in a ball and just use your eyes as your guide. Pick out what looks good -- you'll open yourself up to new tastes. If you're not sure how to pick the very best items, just ask -- the workers are usually knowledgeable and happy to help. They may even have ideas for preparation. Some farmer's markets do import foods (which negates the whole purpose of a farmer's market in my opinion). If you're not sure if an item is local, just ask.