One of my favorite things to do on an autumn afternoon is to visit a farmstand.  There’s just something special about wandering around a shed, surrounded by fruits and vegetables only hours removed from the field.  You just don’t get that in a grocery store produce section.  You also don’t get free samples of fresh homemade apple cider (I bought it for the brunch and I am dying to try some.  I must be strong.) or an offer of a free apple so you can decide if you like a new variety.  For the record, Honeycrisp apples are seriously yummy.

On Sunday, I visited a farmstand in Adams County, Pennsylvania.  They had pumpkins, squash, gourds, mums, apples, cider, jams and jellies, pies, peppers, turnips,beets, cabbage, greens, and onions. In addition to the squash and apples I need for my brunch,I bought some gorgeous small beets. Just looking at them,you can tell that they’ll be sweet and delicious once they’re roasted and drizzled with a touch of balsamic vinegar and fresh ground black pepper.

Take some time in the next few weeks to visit a farmstand or farmer’s market. You can find a list of possiblilities in your area here.  If you have kids, it makes a great family trip.  Vegetables are a lot more fun stacked in a farmstand than stuck in a can or plastic bag.  Let the kids pick a new vegetable to try just because they like the color or shape. 

Support local growers and enjoy nature’s autumn bounty.