Norcross Community Market, in its second year of operation, is more than a seasonal, open-air, producer-only farmers market. It is a way to build community.
On summer Saturdays you can find a diverse mix of shoppers, vendors and volunteers enjoying fresh, locally grown produce, meats, eggs, prepared foods and beverages, jarred and baked goods and more at Webb Park. The market is set up rain or shine on the upper lawn of the park at 5 College St. located between historic downtown Norcross and Buford Highway. With live music playing in the background, one might watch children participating in activities just for them, learn from local civic organizations, or taste samples from a food demonstration using ingredients from the market. The market line-up changes weekly to keep interest high.
The Norcross market was selected as a pilot site for the new Nourish program by Georgia Farmers Market Association. This guide to incorporating local food at the family table is the association’s way to encourage shoppers to meet their local farmers, get kids (and adults) to eat healthy, enjoy fresh samples, learn seasonal recipes and health tips. The program is also supported by Wholesome Wave Georgia Fresh for Less which helps the market double the purchasing power of EBT/SNAP and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program shoppers.
The Cook’s Corner at the market alternates between demos by the Nourish food educator and local chefs. The focus is on recipes and preparation methods shoppers can duplicate at home using the fresh ingredients in season at the market.
Ingredients in this recipe shared by Connie Weathers, volunteer with the non-profit Sustainable Norcross Inc., are in abundance this time of year and can be found at the Norcross Community Market, one of the organization’s main projects.