Get Ready for the Holidays in Asheville!
As we gradually approach the holidays and the official start of winter, life in Asheville begins to sparkle with warmth and cheer. It’s that magical time of year when we gather around flickering hearths, share heartwarming stories, and enjoy delightful treats. Whether you’re the warm-hearted host or a cherished guest, local farmers markets offer a bounty of delicious sweet and savory goodies, perfect for nurturing those December get-togethers.
Create the Perfect Charcuterie Board
Want to impress your friends and family? Look no further than a vibrant, locally sourced charcuterie board. This holiday favorite is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Imagine an assortment of artisanal cheeses, flavorful cured meats, freshly baked bread, and even homemade jams. There’s just something about a beautifully arranged board that brings everyone together!
Let’s start with cheese—the star of any charcuterie spread. At our local farmers tailgate markets, you’ll find an amazing variety of cheeses made right here in Asheville. Check out Blue Ridge Mountain Creamery for their classic cheddar, or their famous “Ridge Blue” cheese that packs a punch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try their cheese infused with espresso? Sounds heavenly, right?
If you prefer classic traditions, vendors like Looking Glass Creamery and Lane in the Woods are renowned for their dedication to cheesemaking, often raising their own herds to craft these delicacies. For goat or sheep cheese enthusiasts, Spinning Spider Creamery offers a divine rosemary fig chevre, while Three Graces Dairy features a delightful winter rum raisin chevre. You can easily find them at both the North Asheville and River Arts District markets.
Bread, Meat, and Sweet Treats!
What’s a charcuterie board without some freshly baked bread? Head over to Simple Bread for perfectly baked sourdough loaves, or grab a crunchy baguette from High Top Bread Co. Gluten-free? No worries, check out Urban Peasants at the River Arts District Farmers Market for some great options!
Now let’s add a splash of flavor with some cured meats. Hickory Nut Gap has a selection of scrumptious salami and sopressata while Sunburst Trout brings a unique selection of rainbow trout products, from hickory smoked dip to cold-smoked filets. The flavors will have your taste buds dancing!
Looking to spice things up? Don’t forget to include some fermented deliciousness from Serotonin Ferments and Fermenti, who have a variety of tangy krauts and kimchis to choose from. And what about hummus? Sitto’s Hummus offers some local favorites in a range of flavors, which are always a crowd-pleaser.
Fruits and Jams to Round Out Your Board
To sweeten the deal, add some homemade jams and jellies from Windy Hollow or Imladris. Fresh fruit, like apples and persimmons from McConnell Farms, can add a splash of sweetness and color to your board. To keep things fresh and crunchy, include some bright carrots and beautiful purple daikon radishes from Wild East Farm or New Roots Market Garden.
After gathering all these delightful items, arrange them meticulously on your board and sprinkle with fresh herbs for that final touch. Your guests will be blown away!
Last Chance to Shop Local!
As the year winds down, don’t miss out! This week marks your last opportunity to visit the Asheville City Market on December 14 and all the weekday farmer’s markets before the year ends. West Asheville wraps up its season on December 17, while Weaverville and River Arts District markets will close on December 18. Finally, the North Asheville and Black Mountain markets will have their last hurrah on December 21.
While shopping, keep an eye out for other winter goodies like mixed greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, and hearty vegetables like cabbage and kale to warm up your meals. Our markets also have a bounty of farm-fresh eggs and meats to choose from, including chicken, pork, beef, and lamb.
So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or joining a friend’s festive celebration, remember that supporting local farms not only fills your table with delicious food but also brings a piece of our community to every dish. For more details about your favorite farmers markets and the incredible local farms, be sure to explore your local food guide!
