Welcome to the time of year when we mark the days by what's in season at local farmers markets.
After a numbing winter, we eagerly anticipate spring and the arrival of rhubarb, spinach and asparagus (and, if you're lucky, morels). Eating our vegetables isn't a problem when it's time for peas, green beans and kohlrabi. We're giddy when raspberry, strawberry and blueberry farms open, picking with abandon and making jams, compotes and desserts with the berries we didn't eat on the way home.
Summer's peak is pure bliss, bringing juicy tomatoes and cucumbers to the table. And nothing beats that first bite of locally grown sweet corn, so naturally sweet that it doesn't even need butter, although that doesn't stop us.
As the weather turns crisp, we prepare for the apples, Brussels sprouts, squashes and root vegetables that bring the growing season — and many markets — to a close. But we're getting ahead of ourselves.
Local farmers markets have been growing both in number and in purpose. In 1985, the Twin Cities metro area had 20 markets; today, the tally is more than 70. They are not only a source of fresh produce, but have become community gathering spots where artists showcase work, chefs test new food concepts and entrepreneurs unveil new products.
With so many markets, it's easy to find one close by or fuarther afield if you're up for an adventure. And we can help: map your market at strib.mn/3korIWQ.
Minneapolis markets
Audubon Farmers Market: Thu., 4-7 p.m., 2844 NE. Johnson St., Mpls., audubonneighborhood.org. June 8-Sept. 28.
Farmers Market Annex: Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-1 p.m., 200 E. Lyndale Av. N., Mpls., farmersmarketannex.com. Ends Oct. 29.
