How to Bring Vermont Farm-to-Table Into Your Kitchen

As we reach the tail end of spring here in Vermont, the grass is green, flowers are bursting with color, and local crops are in full swing. It’s the perfect time to get out and engage with Vermont’s farm-to-table communities. There are a wide variety of options for those looking to get fresh foods: Pick Your Own (PYO) farms, farmers’ markets, and CSAs are just a few ways to enjoy local tastes. Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon for the kids or summer-long access to seasonal produce, there are so many ways to enjoy the bounty of our beautiful Green Mountain State. Local treats are just around the corner! 

PYO Farms 

Pick your own (PYO) farms are a fun and healthy way to enjoy the outdoors and gather local treats. Perfect for kids and grownups alike, the seasonal nature of these farms keeps a variety of foods coming all spring and summer long. Adam’s Berry Farm, located just south of Burlington in Charlotte, is a beautiful spot to enjoy a day outdoors. Adam’s is dedicated to organic and sustainable farming and seeks to “foster community through pick-your-own and various community outreach projects.” They have strawberries in June, as well as raspberries and blueberries from July through August., depending on the time of the season. Check their Instagram to see what’s ripe today!

A little further east, Full Belly Farm in Hinesburg sits in the picturesque shadow of Camels Hump and offers a variety of seasonal berries and flowers for you to pick. The farm, previously known as the Norris Berry Farm, was sold to the Vermont Land Trust and bought by Sarah and Stephen Park in 2017. Since then, they have poured their hearts into making the best experience possible for pickers while maintaining the farm’s legacy. 

CSAs

So, what is Community Supported Agriculture? 

CSA members pay one upfront fee at the beginning of the growing season, effectively owning a share of the farm. The customer then receives a variety of fresh picked fruits, veggies, and other products each week during the growing season. CSAs are a unique way to connect with the community and get the freshest seasonal food from your local farm. Your Vermont Real Estate Company agent is happy to connect you with your local CSA – there is sure to be one close by! 

Anderbell Acres in Montpelier focuses on offering beautiful natural flowers starting from late April through June. For six weeks members will receive allium, fancy daffodils, ranunculus, lilacs, anemone, and peonies. These gorgeous blooms are also available as a PYO style – members get a ceramic vase and can pick their choice of ever-changing flowers once a week during the peak summer months. Anderbell Acres also offers an AirBnB for farm and flower lovers, with stunning views of the surrounding Green Mountains. Something to consider for your next ‘stay-cation’!

Looking for “the best salads in town”? New Tradition Farm gives members everything they need to prepare the freshest, tastiest salads with their weekly pickups in Richmond, Williston, and Burlington. Nestled in cozy Richmond, this woman-owned farm also offers popular vegetables such as carrots, scallions, and cherry tomatoes, and herbs like parsley and cilantro – perfect additions to any salad or homemade dressing! The owner, Stoni, pledges to never use pesticides and gathers all produce from her ½ acre farm. 

Local Recipes 

We all know that Vermont is famous for its maple syrup… and how it seemingly works its way into every VT recipe. But that’s not the only product Vermont does well – check out these local recipes perfect for summer meals, snacking, and entertaining. 

This Asparagus Terrine with Creme Fraiche and Soft Boiled Egg from Edible Vermont is the perfect start to a summer day. Source the fresh thyme, chives, parsley, lemon zest, pepper, and bread from your local farmers market for a lovely combo! 

Taking a hint from our neighbors up North, this Roasted Sweet Poutine with Chimichurri is sure to complete any summer potluck. This recipe comes from the legendary Cabot Creamery, who still produce all their products in Cabot, VT. 

Getting outside this weekend? Stay fueled up on a hike, bike ride, or paddle with these simple Maple Granola Bars from Vermont Maple Syrup. 

Looking to sweeten up your Old Fashioned? Butternut Mountain Farm in Morrisville has the perfect recipe. A Vermont Maple Old Fashioned is the perfect twist on a delicious classic! 

Farmers Markets

Farmers markets are the perfect place to find a variety of foods and handmade products in one convenient location and to connect with your local community. 

Looking to explore all Vermont farmers’ markets have to offer? Here are a few of our top picks! 

The Barre Farmers Market is open every Wednesday from 3:30-6:30, tucked away from downtown on Pearl Street.

Burlington Farmers Market opens Saturdays at 9am till 2pm on 345 Pine Street. Parking can be a little tricky, information can be found here!

Nestled in the beautiful Mad River Valley, the Waitsfield Farmers Market is open from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays on the Mad River Green. 

The Bennington Farmers’ Market is celebrating it’s 20th year! The summer market has a new location by the deer park across from Tastee Freeze and features a wide variety of vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, crafts, prepared foods, and more!

An hour east, the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from May 7 to October 29 - rain or shine. Make sure to swing by between 11 AM and 1 PM to enjoy free live music! 

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy all of Vermont’s incredible farm-to-table gems! Check out Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA) for more information on farmers’ markets, CSAs, and PYOs near you.