Asheville Winter Farmers’ Tailgate Markets Thrive

Categories: CommunityCulinaryEvents/What's HappeningNews

A scene from Asheville's winter farmers' market with fresh produce and local vendors.

News Summary

Asheville’s winter farmers’ tailgate markets continue to offer a rich variety of fresh produce and meal solutions as March approaches. Local vendors showcase seasonal items like beets, greens, cheeses, and take-and-bake meals, perfect for busy weeknights. With everything from salads to savory pastries, residents are encouraged to embrace winter flavors while anticipating spring’s bounty. The markets also provide consistently available options such as cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat meals, making it easier for everyone to enjoy delicious local food throughout the winter season.

Asheville Welcomes Winter Farmers’ Tailgate Markets

As Asheville gears up for March, the local farmers’ tailgate markets are still buzzing with activity, providing residents with an array of delicious winter produce and exciting meal solutions. Even though spring is just around the corner, with seasonal goodies like beets, carrots, peas, asparagus, strawberries, and various spring greens on the way, winter markets are serving up tasty options that make your meals flavorful and filling.

Current Offerings at the Markets

As you stroll through the tailgate markets in Buncombe County, you’ll find a delightful selection of items to brighten your winter meals. From crisp salad greens and artisanal cheeses to freshly baked breads and convenient ready-to-eat meals, there’s no reason to stress about dinner. Perfect for that busy weeknight, Barnhouse Kitchen is a standout at the North Asheville Tailgate Market, offering take-and-bake meals that are a cinch to prepare.

If you’re searching for something tasty that can accommodate a small gathering, you’ll love Barnhouse’s savory pastries. Each pastry can serve between 2 to 4 people, making them excellent for any meal of the day—whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. A particular highlight from their menu is the Dancing Goat strübun, a mouthwatering vegetarian option filled with sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, roasted red peppers, onions, cilantro, and goat cheese.

Greens and Dressings Galore!

Farmers are showcasing greens from popular vendors including Thatchmore Farm, Olivette Farm, Highgate Farm, and Lee’s One Fortune Farm. Not to forget the scrumptious handmade salad dressings available from Ali Rae Foods, found at both the North Asheville and River Arts District markets, perfect for drizzling over those fresh greens.

If you’re on the hunt for hearty meal solutions, New Stock Pantry has you covered with a variety of ready-to-eat meals and ever-changing soup flavors available at the River Arts District Market. You can pair these with freshly baked sourdough loaves from popular bakers like Heater House Bread, Simple Bread, and High Top Bread Co. Did we mention that there are gluten-free options too? Thanks to Urban Peasants Bakery, everyone can enjoy homemade bread!

Unique Culinary Creations

Hominy Farm stands out with their ready-to-eat breads, which are topped with seasonal veggies and a delightful blend of Lebanese spices, perfect for accompanying your soups. And when it comes to cheese, you really can’t go wrong. Options like aged cheddar from Looking Glass Creamery and spicy pimento cheese from Ali Rae Foods create a cheesy masterpiece, especially when whipped up into grilled cheese sandwiches! Elevate your sandwich game with additions like caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or a dollop of local jam.

Vegetables and Market Schedules

If you’re curious about what local farmers and vendors are up to, the ASAP’s online Local Food Guide is a handy resource for everything you need, including information about farms and market schedules. Here’s a quick overview:

Asheville City Market: Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March.
North Asheville Tailgate Market: Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March.
RAD Farmers Market: Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. year-round.
Weaverville Tailgate Market: Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. year-round.
WNC Farmers Market: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. year-round.

So as we look toward the arrival of spring produce, don’t miss out on the fantastic offerings at Asheville’s winter farmers’ tailgate markets. Embrace the season’s flavors, and enjoy easy meal solutions right from the heart of your community!