Mason Jar Salad

Like the first crocus that bursts through the almost-green grass, farmers’ markets mark the start of produce season with that first bunch of asparagus or bundle of spinach. Shop your local farmers’ market, and you’ve capitalized on a way to savor produce at the peak of freshness. The best part? You get to meet and support the people who grow your food.

No doubt, the fruits and vegetables at most farmers’ markets taste fresher than anything else available. Local farmers allow their produce to ripen fully in the field or orchard, which means no long-distance shipping and no long storage. The food, as real as it gets, arrives fresh from the farm.

Want to save money? Shop the market where all of the food available arrives seasonally. Not only does it come fresh and delicious, but by buying in season, you typically get the best prices. Shopping and cooking from the farmers’ market also helps you reconnect with the cycles of nature. You can look forward to radishes in spring, savor sweet corn in summer or bake with real pumpkins in autumn. It allows us to reconnect with the earth, the weather and the turning of the year.

Knowing how to use that fresh produce can seem challenging. Luckily, some tools of the trade, both old standbys and new devices, come in handy.

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Kale Chips

Speaking of trends, kale just might be the biggest fad in the world of greens. But if you don’t enjoy the superfood on its own, you might reconsider after trying my recipe for kale chips. This simple, four-ingredient recipe provides plenty of crunch and nutrition for anyone looking for healthier, low-calorie and low-carb snack alternatives.

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