How to Make Your Farmers Market Haul Last All Week
Tips for storing your market finds so they stay fresh, crisp, and ready for dinner all week long.
Published On
Photo by MJ Kroeger
Whether you’re a farmers market regular or just dipping a toe into seasonal shopping, we’ve got you covered. From smart storage tips to must-buy produce picks (yes, beyond donuts), here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your haul.
Jump to:
Why We Love Farmers Markets
There’s something about strolling through sun-drenched produce stands, latte in one hand, tote bag in the other, that just hits differently. It’s not just about the food—it’s about community, seasonality, and supporting local growers who know exactly when the strawberries are at their peak (and how to tell if an eggplant is ripe).
Plus, the produce is often fresher than what you’ll find at the store—it was probably picked that morning. That means better flavor, longer shelf life, and more incentive to eat your greens.
What We Always Buy (Besides Donuts)
- Soft herbs like basil and dill
- Berries by the pint—strawberries early in the season, raspberries later on
- Lettuces and leafy greens
- Crunchy root veg (hi, French breakfast radishes)
- Garlic scapes, ramps, and other seasonal unicorns
Featured Video
How to Store Farmers Market Produce
Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Lettuce)
- Wash and dry thoroughly.
- Store loosely in a reusable produce bag with a paper towel or dish towel inside to catch extra moisture.
- Don’t seal tightly—let them breathe.
Herbs (Parsley, Cilantro, Dill, Mint)
If you’ve ever wondered how to store basil (and other herbs) to keep them at their freshest, you’re not alone. Our editor tested a variety of methods and found that the best way to store basil is—spoiler!—treating it like a bouquet of flowers. Just trim the stems and place them in a jar with water, leaving them on your counter in a sunny spot. This method helps basil stay fresh and vibrant for much longer than the fridge ever could!
Check out our full testing results and tips in the article How to Store Basil to find out why the fridge is a no-go and how you can extend the life of your herbs.
What’s your go-to herb storage method? Let us know in the comments—let’s share our best tips!
- Option 1: Treat them like flowers—trim stems, place in a jar with water, and leave on the counter in a sunny spot. No fridge required!
- Option 2: Wrap in a damp towel, tuck inside a produce bag, and store on the counter.
- This combo can keep soft herbs fresh for up to two weeks!
Root Veggies (Carrots, Radishes, Beets)
- Chop off leafy tops right away.
- Store unwashed in a produce bag or container with the lid cracked open.
- Add a damp dish towel to maintain humidity and crunch.
Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries)
- Don’t wash until ready to eat.
- Line a container with a dry towel, spread berries in a single layer, and crack the lid slightly.
- Airflow = fewer moldy surprises.
Alliums (Garlic, Onions, Scallions)
- Garlic + onions: Cool, dry, dark spot. No fridge!
- Scallions: Pop in a jar of water with a produce bag draped over the top—they’ll keep fresh and keep growing.
The Unsung Heroes: Reusable Bags & Towels
- Five Two Produce Bags: Light, breathable, and way cuter than plastic. Great for airflow and extending the life of greens and herbs.
- Five Two Dish Towels: Not just for drying dishes—use them to line containers, wrap herbs, or gently pad berries. Bonus: They’re machine-washable and come in colors you’ll actually want to see in your fridge.
Some of Our Favorite Farmers Market
Farmers markets are where you’ll find the freshest, most vibrant produce—and a whole lot of community spirit. Here are a few of our all-time favorites:
- Des Moines, Iowa Farmers Market: A huge city-wide celebration every Saturday. It takes over downtown with live music, delicious food, and fresh local produce. It’s a must-see if you’re in the area!
- Logan Square Farmers Market (Chicago, IL): For the vibes, the locally sourced goods, and its proximity to fantastic restaurants like Lula Café. It’s not just a market—it’s an experience.
- Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket (Brooklyn, NY): Known for its selection of high-quality produce and artisanal goods, plus it’s a great spot to spend a leisurely Saturday afternoon in the park.
- Fort Greene Farmers Market (Brooklyn, NY): A charming neighborhood market offering a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods. Perfect for a stroll while you pick up your weekly essentials.
- Eastern Market (Detroit, MI): One of the oldest and largest public markets in the U.S., offering everything from fresh produce to local meats, baked goods, and much more. It’s a staple in Detroit's community culture.
- Havens Farmers Market (Shelter Island, NY): This small but beautiful market is the epitome of a quaint, local farm-to-table experience. It's a must-visit on Shelter Island, featuring seasonal produce and artisanal products.
What's your favorite farmers market? Let us know in the comments below!
Recipes to Make With Your Haul
Afresh take on the classic Italian bread salad. It combines toasted ciabatta cubes with seasonal vegetables like asparagus, English peas, and snow peas, all tossed in a basil-mint pesto.
This vibrant salad combines raw sweet corn, crisp cucumbers, and red peppers, all tossed in a buttermilk-yogurt dressing infused with dill and parsley.
This simple yet flavorful dish features roasted cherry tomatoes, spring onions, and garlic, all caramelized to perfection and served atop toasted country bread.
This summery tart features a nutty pecan crust filled with creamy ricotta custard and topped with lightly sweetened, par-cooked blueberries.
These sautéed green beans are a quick, vibrant side dish elevated by a clever garlic technique. A splash of lemon juice and zest brightens the dish, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Bonus: You can wrap those toasts in a dish towel and take them to the park for a very “I live in a Nancy Meyers movie” kind of moment.
What are your best tips for keeping produce fresh?