The Paleo Diet and summer are made for each other. Ripe vegetables line the stalls of farmers markets and co-ops alike. The pull to head out for a hike or swim is strong as the sun reaches high in the sky.
Farmers Markets and CSAs
Farmers markets spring to life in the summer months. Local, organic produce is generally more nutritious than food that has traveled hundreds of miles from mass-produced mono-cropped plots. Improved soil health and reduced travel time typically enhance the nutritional value of the fresh produce at farmers markets.
Local Harvest is a great starting point for finding farmers markets near you, as well as featured CSAs. CSA, or Community Supported Agriculture, is a system that allows the consumer to subscribe to the harvest of a particular farm or group of farms. In exchange, you will receive a box of in-season produce and other farm goods. Some farms offer you the ability to work on the farm in place of a portion of the subscription fee. CSA subscriptions can last all year round, or just for the summer, spring, or fall months. Each CSA farm provides different options so you may need to shop around for one that suits your needs. Factors include the size of the order, if you want to select your produce yourself or let them pack it for you, where their pickup locations are, and in some cases if you'll need to, or want to, invest your time.
