Penn State Extension Helps Shoppers Make the Most of Fresh, Local Foods

As the bitter cold gives way to warmer weather and the days grow longer, communities across Pennsylvania are preparing for the return of local farmers' markets. Soon, tents will rise, tables will fill with colorful produce and local meats, and neighbors will gather to enjoy the freshest foods grown close to home. But this year, shoppers can look forward to more than just vibrant fruits and vegetables. Penn State Extension is expanding its presence at markets statewide, offering new resources, demonstrations, and hands-on support through its Market Fresh with Extension program. 

For many families, a weekly visit to the farmers' market is a chance to reconnect with local growers, discover seasonal ingredients, and enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh food. Whether you're a long-time market regular or planning your first visit, finding a market near you is easier than ever. Penn State Extension's Farm Market Finder allows residents to search for markets across the state and explore what each location has to offer.

Penn State Extension is encouraging shoppers to take their market experience a step further through Market Fresh with Extension, a program designed to help community members make the most of their fresh finds. The initiative focuses on building confidence in the kitchen, teaching practical cooking skills, and assisting families to incorporate more locally sourced foods into their meals.  

Many shoppers can relate to the excitement of discovering a beautiful fruit or vegetable at the market, only to realize later that they aren't quite sure how to use it. Your plate may feel too bland at dinnertime, or you're stuck in a routine of the same few recipes. You may have wondered how to add more color, variety, or creativity to your meals. Market Fresh with Extension was created with these everyday challenges in mind. The program offers guidance for anyone who purchases a new ingredient without a plan, struggles to find meal inspiration, or wishes for simple hacks to make cooking easier. 

To support these efforts, Penn State Extension has created an online hub featuring recipes, tips on fresh produce, and educational resources. These tools help shoppers turn fresh finds into delicious meals at home, even if they're new to cooking or experimenting with unfamiliar ingredients.  

Community members can explore materials at the Market Fresh with Extension hub.  

Penn State Extension offers ongoing support through social media. Shoppers can follow along on Instagram or Facebook at Penn State Extension Food & Health for weekly shopping lists, recipe ideas, and inspiration for using seasonal ingredients. These posts highlight what's fresh in local markets, offer simple meal ideas, and provide practical tips for making the most of local produce. From colorful salads to hearty soups, the recipes are designed to be accessible for cooks of all skill levels. 

If you get carried away a little at the farmers' market, Penn State Extension has you covered. Besides supporting local farms, we also help you figure out what to do with all that extra produce through our Home Food Preservation resources. From canning to freezing to drying, we've got the answers, so nothing goes to waste, and you can enjoy fresh flavors long after their peak season. 

Farmers’ markets are back for the season, offering fresh, local produce from Pennsylvania growers. Penn State Extension helps you make the most of every visit with tools to find markets, see what’s in season, pick quality produce, and cook simple, tasty meals.  

Try this Market Fresh Spinach Strawberry Salad recipe! 

Spinach Strawberry Salad 

6 servings | serving size: ⅙ of recipe 

When preparing this recipe, start with clean countertops and utensils. Wash hands with soap and water. Wash whole, fresh produce by rinsing spinach and strawberries and gently rubbing the red onion under cold, running water. Prewashed, packaged items do not require further washing. 

Ingredients 

•  ½ cup raw pecans  
•  ¼ cup balsamic vinegar  
•  2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil  
•  1½ Tablespoons poppy seeds  
•  1½ Tablespoons honey  
•  ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard  
•  ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper  
•  10 ounces fresh spinach (about 6 cups)  
•  4 cups sliced strawberries  
•  ½ cup thinly sliced red onion*  
•  ¾ cup reduced-fat crumbled feta cheese 

Directions 

1. To toast the pecans, preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans out in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You will be able to smell the pecans roasting when they are close to done, and the center of a pecan may be tan when broken in half. Move to a cutting board and roughly chop. 
2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, oil, poppy seeds, honey, mustard, and pepper until combined. 
3. Add the spinach to a large serving bowl. Top with the strawberries, red onion, feta, and pecans.  Lightly drizzle the salad with dressing and toss to combine. 

*Tip: Place sliced onions in a bowl and cover with cold water. Let sit while preparing the rest of the salad. This preserves their flavor while eliminating the onion's harsh bite. 

This recipe makes 6 servings. Nutrition information per serving: Calories 270, Fat 16g, Saturated Fat 3.5g, Carbohydrate 20g, Protein 8g, Sodium 390mg, Fiber 5g, Calcium 165mg.