Local farmers’ markets have a vast selection of fresh, sustainable food. There really is something heartwarming about wandering around farmers’ stalls and buying fresh fruit and vegetables that you know are locally sourced.
We all know how expensive store-bought, fruit and vegetables are, and chances are they are not even that fresh. Although many believe farmers’ markets to be expensive, they really aren’t as bad as you would think. A lot of the time you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables in bulk, which actually makes it cheaper. And of course, the ingredients are fresh and sustainable.
By doing your grocery shopping at farmers’ markets you are supporting local businesses and farms by buying direct from the source and cutting out the middle man. It puts a lot less strain on the environment too, as it reduces air miles and food transportation.
Following a vegan diet doesn’t mean eating less tasty or wholesome foods. Here are a couple of my favorite vegan recipes, and the best part is that all of the ingredients can be found at your local farmers’ market.
Sweet Potato & White Bean Chili
With roasted sweet potatoes and hearty cannellini beans, this little recipe is packed full of flavor and easy to make. This super healthy dish is good for the soul, especially in the chilly (see what I did there?) winter months. Simply roast the sweet potatoes and chop up the rest of your ingredients, add to a frying pan and gently fry for 15 minutes. It really is as easy as that!
Sticky Apple Toffee Turnover Cake
Brighten up your afternoon cup of coffee with this delicious treat. All of the core ingredients (I did it again) can be bought at your local farmers’ market. Serve it hot or cold – this little number is super tasty and perfect for any occasion.
Bulgur & Lentil Salad
Created by Andy Harris and David Loftus, this hearty, filling dish is great for lunch or dinner. It’s simple to make and only takes around an hour, including prep time. Again, all of the ingredients can be bought at your local farmers’ market, meaning all of the ingredients will be super fresh.
Tomato and Turmeric Soup
This is a wonderful, nourishing dish that is great for all year round. The fresh ingredients mean it’s packed full of flavor, and it’s shockingly quick to make. Just boil, blend the ingredients together and heat before serving. Easy.
Mexican Bean Rice
This fiery recipe is delicious and full of essential protein. With hot jalapenos, white rice and a combination of three different kinds of beans, this Mexican marvel is perfect for boosting your intake of protein and tastes incredible. Serve hot with wraps, guacamole and salsa.
Pesto and Avocado Pizza
A twist on one of America’s favorite dishes, this pizza is totally guilt-free and tastes amazing. Using nothing but wholesome ingredients, this is a great little recipe to use when craving fast food. Make fresh flatbread or pitta and pile on the toppings, then bake for around 10 minutes and voila!
So there you have it. These are my favorite wholesome, vegan dishes all using fresh ingredients. They are simple to make and very nutritious, helping you to eat healthily and without guilt. Why not try to cut the costs of buying from your local farmers’ markets and take a friend along with you? Then you can snap up the bargains in bulk and leave nothing to waste.
Do you have any recipe suggestions of your own? Let us know in the comments below.
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By: Hollie Jones
Hollie is a freelance writer and co-owner of the lifestyle blog Hollie and the Ivy. She has a passion for organic food and healthy, vegan recipes.
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