This is my favorite time of year—there’s a buzz in the air as parents and kids alike joyfully anticipate the last day of school and that first day of summer camp. There’s a lightness and energy that’s hard to resist! For me, June also marks the return of one of my favorite routines—a weekly visit to the Squirrel Hill Farmers’ Market.
Every Sunday, I walk up street to Murray Avenue, grab coffee, and catch up with neighbors as I wander through the stalls. Tables seem to burst with vibrant reds, leafy greens, deep purples, golden yellows. While the color palette is exceptional, my favorite part of the Farmer’s Market is the enthusiasm the vendors bring as they peddle their eligible plants. One is more excited than the next. You’ll hear things like, “Just picked this morning!”” Or, my personal favorite, “These are the sweetest they’ll be all season. Gotta’ get them fast!” Each fruit and vegetable seems to have its own personality and backstory—I’m a sucker for a good backstory!
Even when I go to the Farmers’ Market with a specific shopping list, it’s hard not to be tempted to try something new. I might go in just looking for sweet corn, but I always come out with something unexpected—like rainbow chard, banana peppers or a funny-looking tomato.
This month, I want to invite you to try some new fruits and veggies too. In fact, I challenge you!
Can you eat 30 different plants in a week? Bonus points if you find them at a farmers’ market, roadside stand, community garden, or even a “local” display at your grocery store.
Here are a few great local markets to explore:
- Squirrel Hill Farmers Market – Sundays, 9 am–1 pm at Beacon and Bartlett Streets. A neighborhood favorite for a reason.
- Mt. Lebanon Uptown Market – Saturdays, 9 am–12 pm on Washington Road. Full of local produce and family-friendly energy.
They don’t need to be fancy; fresh basil, a new type of lettuce, spices, herbs, or berries all count.
Want to take the challenge? Start a list of the plants you try today. If you like using apps, I’ve got a few good ones that make it easy to keep track. Reach out!
I’m looking forward to kicking off summer with an abundance of colorful, local plants in my gut!
Carolyn Kontos, MS, ACC, offers Wellness & Nutrition Coaching at the JCC through her Eat Well Programs. For more information, contact Carolyn at [email protected]