Market to Pantry #18: Schenectady Greenmarket, upstate New York
From Lauren (The Very Hungry Bookworm), in upstate New York:
Every Sunday from 10 to 2, farmers, artisans, and producers travel from miles around to set up their stands at the Schenectady Greenmarket in upstate New York. In the summer, the market abounds with vibrant herbs, greens, tomatoes, locally-raised meat, fresh cheeses, and bread still warm from the oven. Musicians play as customers move from stall to stall, chatting with the people who have created this bounty.
We go at 10 AM when the market opens and stay for lunch, dining on organic empanadas made in front of us as we wait for mangos for our lassis to be peeled and blended to a frosty perfection. Even our harsh winters do not stop our Greenmarket. They head inside, taking camp inside of Proctors theatre instead.
Going to the market is not a chore, but an outing.
When I first went, I brought a list with me. Now I go and see what looks good. I form my week's meals around that. Often I leave with a glass bottle of milk, a piece of hormone-free poultry, eggs, the most vibrant vegetables I can find (right now it's asparagus), and a sprouted grain bread. I also leave with a smile and the thought that it is places like this that keep me living in this area.
On Saturdays, for more than three years, we've been peeking into Other People's Pantries all around the world.
*There are only two more pantries to share. If you'd like this feature to continue -- if you've been meaning to send your photos but haven't gotten around to it -- please send in your pantry photos. Here's how.
Market to Pantry alternates on Saturdays with Other People's Pantries.
*There is just one more market to share. Show us your favorite supermarket, farmers' market, ethnic market, big box store or roadside stand. We'd love to see where you shop for food. Here's how.
Posted by: susan g | June 25, 2011 at 12:33 AM
A lively farmer's market really brings life to a community. You're fortunate to have year round access!
Posted by: milton | June 25, 2011 at 06:02 AM
Your market looks really nice. What is a community table? I for one want to step into the monitor and buy one of those fresh chickens that are for sale :)
Posted by: Maris (In Good Taste) | June 25, 2011 at 06:18 AM
Looks so fun! It is amazing that they are open year round. Others should take that as an example and do the same!
Posted by: Kalyn | June 25, 2011 at 11:01 AM
This does look like a wonderful market. I really feel jealous of people who have a market all year.
Posted by: Kate | June 25, 2011 at 11:06 AM
I love the Schenectady Farmers Market, Troy has a great one too, on Saturdays! There's nothing better than living in the Capital Region in summer!
Posted by: carol,boston @ cabinetstew | June 25, 2011 at 08:14 PM
I am amazed they are open year round as well! So lucky to have such a great market! Coincidentally I just finished making Empanadas and there is a mango on my counter right now; perhaps I should re-create your market day experience and make some lassis!