July is a most splendid month. Long days, no school, summer vacations and local produce beginning to peak are all reasons to make a trip to your nearest farmers' market. If you came in May for a visit and were disappointed, it's time to come back.
Most markets are in full swing and operating at capacity. Even if it is raining (and we all hope it isn't), your local markets are full to the brim with fresh, local produce and other delights.
My personal favourite this time of year is cherries. As soon as Silverhill Orchards arrive from Mission, I know it's time to eat. I start with the Sandra Rose cherries and keep right on going through to the Lapins. Every week is another basket into my mouth.
Cherries are a nutritional powerhouse, too. Packed with antioxidants and anthocyanins, they aid in the reduction of heart disease, inflammation and cancer. Cherries are also a natural source for melatonin, vitamins A, C and E, potassium, magnesium, iron, folate and fibre. That's a tremendous amount of benefit from one little fruit.
So while we are talking about health benefits, let's have a look at some of the other market superstars. Years ago, I read a book called Foods that Fight Cancer written by two Canadian doctors and endorsed by the Cancer Research Society. Of the 13 foods featured in the book, 10 can be purchased at market and are available now.
Cruciferous vegetables are the easy ones. Broccoli, kale, cabbage and cauliflower can all be found at several of the vendors, and you can get organic as well. Kale has all the benefits of antioxidants and fibre as well as being a rich source of calcium and vitamin K.
Tomatoes are another powerhouse. When they are cooked, they are an excellent source of lycopene, which is thought to help fight certain cancers.
Fresh garlic and soy are on the list, too. Never Say Die Farms from Pitt Meadows grows the best garlic and Red Barn has been growing soybeans. How about sautéing the two together for a yummy side dish?
Omega 3s are important for overall health and wild salmon from the market will fill that need.
My two favourite anti-cancer foods from the market are green tea and dark chocolate. Culinary Blossoms serves up several delightful varieties of green tea that are perfect for sipping or chilling.
Look for your local markets every Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Leigh Square in Port Coquitlam; Friday from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Port Moody rec complex; and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Dogwood Pavilion parking lot.
Karen Curtis is the Lemonade Lady (kicslemonade.ca and kicslemonade.blogspot.ca) at the Coquitlam Farmers Market. Her column runs once a month during market season.
