Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Shopping Local for the Summer

Everyone has excuses as to why they can't eat healthy, but topping the list is that its too expensive and too hard. While eating healthy can cost more, it is much cheaper and more convenient during the summer months when everything is in season. We talked during our grocery store tour about looking for fruits and vegetables that are in season when you're trying to decide what to buy. Fruits and vegetables that are in season are not only cheaper but you can get a wider variety of items for less.



You don't have to put a lot of work in to figure out what items are in season. The easiest way is to look for items on sale at your grocery store of choice. Wal-Mart, for example, has items in giant bins at the very front of the produce/vegetable section. Gerbe's and Schnuck's have large signs advertising sale directly over the items.



Another easy way to find cheap deals on fresh and local fruits and vegetables is by attending the Farmers Markets here in town. There are two markets: one is located in the parking lot next to the Boone County Health Department on Worley St, right off of West Blvd and the other is behind the ARC. Both are open from 8-12 on Saturdays and the one behind the ARC is also open from 4-6 on Mondays and Wednesdays. All the vendors at both markets are local farmers and all their products are delicious. I bought a half dozen ears of corn for $1.50 last Saturday and it tastes so much better since it hasn't been shipped from California! They offer everything from fresh meat to homemade pasta to vegetables to bread to herbs. They are also very willing to share ideas about how to prepare their items, all you have to do is ask!!



Some items that are in season right now are: blueberries, nectarines, peaches, plums, corn, zucchini/summer squash, tomatoes and many, many more! Head out to one of the markets, pick one thing and give it a try! If you have any questions, stop by my (Coach Heitmeyer) office and I'll be glad to help. Happy Summer!

No comments:

Post a Comment