Local Produce, Big Benefits
Almost every area in the United States is known for some kind of 'specialty' when it comes to the fresh fruits and vegetables they can produce. When you think of peaches, chances are Georgia comes to mind. Pineapple? Hawaii, of course. Potatoes might make you think of Idaho. So, what does Michigan make you think of in the produce department? Chances are the great state has more tasty offerings than most people probably realize or associate it with.
Local produce is important to seek out, whatever area you may be in. Sure, it's easy to run down to your local 'super store' and grab a container of strawberries that were grown across the country. They will probably taste good, and serve the purpose you bought them for. But where the super store thrives with quantity, your local market is going to succeed in quality.
The month of May brought us a plentiful bounty of fresh, locally-grown asparagus. Just in time for your Spring cookouts, it's great on the grill, in a salad, or as a side dish! Plus, with a healthy dose of Vitamin A and anti-oxidant benefits, asparagus is a healthy summer treat you can feel good about!
May also kick-starts some great greens in this area! Arugula, chard, Spinach, and more become widely available in late Spring, and pack a nutritional and tasty punch, to boot! Add to sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, and more.
We're moving right along in our Spring and Summer months, though, and June welcomes a whole new variety of fresh produce that's perfectly in season. Fresh Michigan strawberries are a hit right now - here at Sawyer Home & Garden Center, we feature them in our outdoor farm market, and the sweet, enticing smell of these little beauties is enough to draw people toward them. Strawberries are perfect for snacking, in salads, or in your favorite fruity dessert!
Local produce will continue to shine throughout the Summer season, and your local market is the place to be. Keeping your markets local not only boosts your town or city's economy, keeping jobs in your area, but you're almost guaranteed to have the kind of product that someone took a lot of pride in growing, harvesting, and giving to you and your family to enjoy, down to every single strawberry and every spinach leaf you come across.
Take a look at your local markets this season and try all the wonderful produce they have to offer. Once you try it, you may never go back to the 'super store' again!
