Farmers Market Cooking: What to Make with Seasonal Summer Produce
There’s no better time than summer to embrace fresh, local ingredients from your neighborhood farmers market. Vibrant stalls overflowing with sun-ripened tomatoes, juicy peaches, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs provide endless inspiration for delicious meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just dipping your toes into seasonal eating, shopping at the farmers market helps you create flavorful dishes while supporting local farmers and reducing your environmental footprint.
Wondering what to do with your colorful haul? Here are some fantastic ideas for cooking with summer produce that will brighten your table and nourish your body.
1. Tomato & Burrata Salad
Few things scream summer like ripe tomatoes. Slice heirloom tomatoes and pair them with creamy burrata cheese, fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and balsamic glaze. Serve with crusty bread for a simple yet luxurious appetizer or light lunch.
2. Grilled Veggie Platter
Farmers markets burst with vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and corn. Brush slices lightly with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until charred and tender. Serve with hummus or romesco sauce for a colorful side dish.
3. Berry Parfaits
Sweet summer berries—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries—shine in no-cook desserts. Layer fresh berries with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for an easy, healthy treat. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
4. Sweet Corn Salad
Cut fresh corn off the cob and combine with diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder. This salad is crisp, sweet, and perfect for BBQs.
5. Peach Salsa
Juicy peaches add a burst of sweetness to savory dishes. Chop peaches and mix with red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro for a refreshing salsa. Serve with grilled chicken, fish, or tortilla chips.
6. Chilled Cucumber Soup
Cool off with a light and hydrating cucumber soup. Blend cucumbers with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, and garlic. Chill and serve cold for a refreshing summer starter.
7. Pesto Pasta with Green Beans
Pick up fresh basil and green beans for a seasonal twist on pasta. Toss cooked pasta with homemade pesto and blanched green beans for a quick, vibrant meal.
8. Roasted Beet Salad
Beets add earthy sweetness to salads. Roast them until tender, slice thin, and toss with goat cheese, arugula, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
9. Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes
Spiralized zucchini makes a healthy, gluten-free alternative to pasta. Toss “zoodles” with halved cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and parmesan for a light entrée.
10. Stone Fruit Galette
For dessert, feature peaches, plums, or nectarines in a rustic galette. Roll out pastry, pile fruit in the center, sprinkle with sugar, fold edges over, and bake until golden.
Tips for Shopping at the Farmers Market:
✅ Shop early for the best selection.
✅ Bring reusable bags.
✅ Talk to farmers for cooking ideas and to learn what’s freshest.
✅ Be flexible—buy what looks good rather than sticking rigidly to a list.
Cooking with seasonal produce isn’t just about flavor—it’s about sustainability, nutrition, and connecting with your community. Let the colors and aromas of the farmers market guide you to create fresh summer dishes you’ll love all season long.