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I think I can speak for the entire Navitas Organics team when I say they're pretty obsessed with superfoods (obviously!). They love goji berries, maca powder and chia seeds in recipes just as much as you do. But, they'll also be the first to admit, there's more to the world of superfoods than just what you can find in their organic packages—and what better place to explore the fresh-picked side of the superfood realm than the farmers' market? So, the next time you make a trip, try collecting some of these truly amazing treasures. You can add them to your favorite nutrient-dense superfood recipes for incredible combinations of flavor and enhanced wellness benefits.
Broccoli – An excellent source of vitamins, including vitamin C, beta carotene and vitamin K, broccoli is a crowd-pleasing superfood that can protect cardiovascular health, bone health, brain health and the immune system. When buying, look for tight clusters that are bright green and very firm.
Garlic – Intensely flavored and ultra-aromatic, fresh garlic is a treat that many farmers’ markets offer most of the year. A true kind of plant-based medicine, garlic's naturally occurring compounds can enhance heart health, help control blood pressure and offer a major boost to the immune system. In addition to regular garlic, some farmers’ markets will offer young garlic, which has a milder pungency that is delicious in lightly cooked or even raw entrees.
Kale – What would a superfood list be without kale? The truth is, all leafy greens at the farmers’ market will offer excellent nutrient-density, but with its mild taste and hearty texture, kale continues to be a cult favorite. A rich source of vitamins, fiber and even protein, kale is a very detoxifying green food. However, leafy greens in general will diminish in vitamin content the longer they sit, which is why a fresh-picked bunch from a farmers’ market is so ideal – second only to growing your own.
Mushrooms – Edible fungi pack in some of the most powerful immune-boosting benefits of all foods, with some varieties like shiitake and hedgehog mushrooms even used in natural medicine formulations. If your farmers’ market offers seasonal fresh mushrooms, take advantage of some of these nuanced gems for incredibly delicious flavor experiences that can also keep you feeling your best.
Blueberries – Blueberries are one of the best-studied berries, thanks in part to their exceptionally high polyphenol content – the antioxidants that make them so good for the brain, skin and heart. Even in peak season, blueberries aren't the least expensive thing you'll buy at your local market, but their pop of sweet, juicy flavor is so irresistible, they may not even make it home.
Beets – You'll never find such a stunning collection of beet varieties, shapes and sizes, as you will at a farmers’ market. But these root vegetables do more than just add color to your plate, they add tremendous value to your health, too. Highly anti-inflammatory and immune-protective, beets’ vast collection of phytochemicals can do everything from enhance your athletic performance to support your digestion. Buying them super-fresh at the market means that the beet greens will still be attached and good to eat as a leafy green as well, meaning you essentially get two superfoods for the price of one!
The truth is, almost all the produce at the farmers’ market will offer some form of benefit to your body, improving your immediate energy and your long-term wellness. So, whether you stock up at the store or at the market (ideally, both!), you can feel great about your superfood choices.
