| The Perfect Way to Start a Healthy Weekend! | |
One of the many great treasures that Pasadena offers the ability to connect with the community and provide our families with fresh, healthy produce at the same time. I adore the Saturday morning farmers market at Victory Park! “The Pasadena Certified Farmer’s Market” is held weekly from 8:30 until 12:30, and boasts some of the friendliest vendors, the happiest families, and the widest variety of fresh foods found in the area. Now the longest running farmers market in all of Los Angeles County, the Pasadena Certified Farmers Market has been boasting the freshest produce, sold directly from local farmers for almost 40 years, and the wait list for new vendors is several years long. When asked what makes it special, Gretchen Sterling, who’s managed the market since its inception in 1984, says “It’s the Connection that everyone has…knowing who grows your food gives you a warm spot in your heart.” | |
 The Toyama family enjoys selecting their berries. | |
As a regular at this farmers market, I’ve incorporated its uber-fresh produce into daily life with the most amazing berries (often picked from a southern California farm the previous day) on homemade acai bowls, and seasonal veggies that entice my family to try a new recipe every couple of weeks. Last week, the crunch of fresh red seedless grapes was a highlight, as were the tender, tiny kernels of fresh sweet corn, served naked on the cob. There’s even a fishmonger with over 30 years’ experience, from whom I purchased some delightfully chilled lump crabmeat to make a delectable crab and corn chowder. | |
| Be aware when you first arrive, the parking is cramped and the route through the parking lot is not laid out in the most strategic manner. But if you go with the flow and be patient, and you’ll find a good spot and friendly fellow shoppers. The signs say to bring your own bags, but it’s also advisable to bring your strollers or wagons and prepare the children to try samples along the way.You’ll certainly be able to find something delicious you’ve never tried before. From the fresh fruit, variety of interesting mushrooms, pre-made ethnic cuisines, free-range eggs, and produce staples, you’ll fill your basket before you realize it! There’s no need to hit the ATM before you go; you can use your debit card at the information booth to purchase wooden coins accepted by all vendors (who make change with cash). You can also enjoy a cup of locally roasted coffee and an amazing breakfast pastry right there as you stroll through the market. |  |
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Exploring this farmers market is a family-friendly and natural way to start your weekend! You can encourage more adventurous eating in your children while planning out a week of meals. Pick up a beautifully blooming orchid or fresh cut seasonal flowers on your way out to share the goodness. I hope I’ll see you there next weekend! | |
