UPDATED GUIDE TO SPRING FARMERS MARKETS + SEASONAL RECIPE IDEAS 🍓🍄

navigating a farmers market + what to make with what's in season

Apr 25, 2025

Since April and May are the unofficial start dates of all the farmers’ markets up north, we thought it would be a good idea to dust off our Guide to Spring Farmers Markets. Spring farmers markets are truly underrated. For one, they are less crowded than summer markets, and contrary to what you may think, there are tons of produce in season right now, including the chef favorite, and relatively unknown ramps.

Ramps are wild leeks native to North America, with a flavor between garlic and onion (stronger than leeks and closer to green onions). They are only in season from early April to mid-May, and because ramps grow in shaded woodland areas, they are typically foraged rather than farmed, adding to their rarity and appeal. Due to their limited availability, ramps are a seasonal spring delicacy and a prized ingredient among chefs and foodies. In addition to their elusiveness, these wild onions are unique, bold, and versatile — they can be grilled, pickled, sautéed, blended, or used to add depth to pastas and soups.

During this time of year, you can find ramps at most farmers markets. So if you’re interested in using this ingredient, be sure to check out markets in your area soon, because *blink* and ramp season will already be over!

This week, the Chicago farmers market was full of ramps, mushrooms, and, unlike many grocery stores these days, farm-fresh eggs. The eggs at the farmers market were $6.99, which is the same price as the eggs at Trader Joe’s (and cheaper than many others I’ve seen at the store), but the quality of this dozen was incomparable to the store-bought ones. The farmers market eggs have a beautiful orange yolk compared to the ones from the store. The color of the yolk signifies the diet of the chicken. Pale yellow yolks typically come from hens fed a basic grain diet, while rich, orange yolks usually indicate a diet rich in carotenoids—plant pigments found in foods like marigold petals, alfalfa, and leafy greens. These orange yolks often contain more nutrients, including higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, lutein, and beta-carotene!

With mushrooms, eggs, and ramps in hand, it only made sense to make a Rustic Mushroom Ramp Quiche. IMO, a quiche is always a good idea. It’s easy, tasty, and super versatile. They work for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and you can fill them with almost anything—cheese, veggies, meat, whatever you have in your fridge! They are also a good meal for feeding a group, they make great leftovers, and taste good hot or cold.

This mushroom ramp quiche is actually gluten-free! The crust uses almond flour instead of all purpose and is simply made by pressing it right into a cast iron skillet (no rolling pin or chilling time required).

The filling is full of fresh, spring ramps, mixed mushrooms, and a bit of extra sharp cheddar or gruyere cheese.

GO TO RECIPE

NOW, LET’S GET BACK TO OUR SPRING FARMERS MARKET GUIDE WITH OUR TOP TIPS FOR NAVIGATING FARMERS MARKETS LIKE A PRO:

If you keep your eyes peeled, you may even see one of your favorite local chefs perusing a spring farmer’s market.

1. Plan out your recipes and make a list before you go. Get an idea of what you want to buy and how much you need so you know what you’re looking for when you’re there.

2. Take a lap around before buying. You might be tempted to shop at the first booth you see, but there may be something better or cheaper further away from the entrance.

3. Talk to the vendors! They have great advice on what’s in season, what’s coming, and how best to prepare their produce. And they’re usually very nice!

I always stop by Nichols Farm for my produce at Green City Farmer’s Market in Lincoln Park, Chicago

4. Bring a backpack so you’re hands-free. I love my cooler backpack from Amazon.

5. Get there early before it’s crowded, hot, and things sell out.

6. Know what’s in season before you go. In-season ingredients are often the freshest and taste the best. Plus you can choose your recipes around them for a delicious seasonal meal.