Full disclosure: My thumb is not green. In fact, it’s more pink than anything else. I don’t grow my own food. But that doesn’t stop me from enjoying the downtown Sarasota farmer’s market every Saturday morning, and if you’re like me–more pink thumb than green thumb–it shouldn’t stop you, either.
The market is held on Lemon Avenue every Saturday morning from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., and not only is it a place to see and be seen–for dogs as well as humans–it’s a great place to buy all the fresh, locally grown produce you’ll need for a week of cooking. I’m a big fan of the Asian spinach that can be found there, and the Worden Farms stand is a fantastic place to buy organic produce, from herbs to colorful fruits and veggies. (The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is a big fan of Worden Farms’ produce.) You can get local honey a few booths down–it’s supposed to help relieve pollen allergies–and pick up fresh flowers for your springtime table, perfect for setting the scene for a great meal.
But my favorite new addition to the market is the fish monger, who has set up shop on the corner of Lemon and Main near the Brooks Brothers store. His swordfish is out of this world–you’ve got to try it!
A few tips for those buying fish at the market or grocery store: Always ask if the fish is fresh or frozen and when it was caught. Then buy two small pieces to cook and try for yourself at home. Be sure to try the fish from the market, though–you’ll be heading back to pick up more for sure!
– Judi Gallagher