5 Must Have Items at the Salem Farmers' Market

There are few things in life that bring a family together quite like a good, fresh meal does.

The Salem Farmers' Market, now entering its tenth week this summer, offers a wide cornocopia of delicious options that are sure to brighten hungry mouths all over Essex County.

We recently toured a crowded with Farmers' Market board member and volunteer Gary Gill, as he pointed out his top picks.

Holly's Spicy Pickles - Maitland Mountain Farm

Craving something sweet, spicy and crunchy? Maitland Mountain Farm has got the snack for you. If you can't make it to the Farmers' Market or run out of them before Thursday, have no fear: Milk & Honey Green Grocer has got you covered by keeping these addictive treats in stock all week long.

Gary says: "They're a really cool, down to earth family. Also check out their dahlias and horseradish."

Fresh, Local Seafood - Rowand's Fisheries

We've got a healthy showing of seafood restaurants here in Salem, but where can you find fresh catch to fix yourself a dinner at home? Look no further than Rowand's Fisheries. Stop by and snatch a few salmon burgers for the grill tonight! 

Gary says: "They're mentioned in two books for a reason. Representing three generations of fishermen, we're lucky to have them here."

Swiss Butter Frog - Swiss Baker's

You may recognize this family business in partnership with Salem Five Bank in their marketing campaign featuring the Swiss Baker's owners on billboards throughout the state. Located in Reading, and opening a new location in Arlington, the Swiss Baker's have developed a reputation of fine, organic Swiss baked goods long before it was trendy. Be sure to stop here first, as they sell out every week.

Gary says: "I love this bakery. It's a big family affair and the food is beautiful."

Lemon Square - Sweet Adeline's

Sweet Adeline's sweet tooth runs in the family. Adeline adds to the family legacy first started with her grandmother's local business, Nana's Kitchen. Trained at a San Francisco bakery and culinary school, Adeline brings delectable, homestyle treats to Salem. Don't miss her vegan options!

Gary says: "These are the best lemon sqares I've ever tasted. Even better than the one's at the Ritz Carlton I used to work for."

$5 Bouquet - Grant Family Farm

Word on the cobblestone streets is that Chris is the new wave of agriculture. A graduate with top ranks from Essex County Aggricultral School, he now represents the family farm with his grandmother who had watched her husband run the stand at the original Salem Farmers' Market.

Gary says: "I can't tell you how many stories we've heard from the older generations talking about how much it means to them to see some familair names return to Salem. Chris is the real deal."

Be sure to stop by the Market today and stock up on produce and other supplies for the week! Also, don't forget: today is the Tomato Festival!