By Julia Howard
Grilling season has arrived, and Saratoga Farmers’ Market vendors have you covered for fresh, flavorful meals. From steaks and sausages to pasture-raised chicken, lamb, mushrooms, and vegetables, local producers share their favorite ways to fire up the grill.
May-K-Mark offers beef, pork, and veal products, and Ariel says there are plenty of quick and crowd-pleasing options available. “Steaks are always great, but I love hot and sweet Italian sausage. We have veal chorizo and bratwurst that can feed a lot of people. And shaved sliced steak on the grill is clutch on busy dinner nights.”
Hepatica Farm and Jireh Farm offer pasture-raised chicken weekly. Melanie from Hepatica keeps it simple: “Bone-in prevents drying, and the breast is flavorful and juicy. Thighs and drumsticks are also great.” Her go-to marinade uses lemon, rosemary, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and a splash of tamari.
At Longlesson Farm, shoppers can find beef and pork perfect for the grill. “Sirloin steak is an excellent option,” says Christophe, the farm owner. “It’s a versatile cut—grill whole or make kabobs to feed a crowd.” For kabobs, bring the steak to room temperature, cube it, and marinate in olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for an hour. Pair with favorite grilled vegetables for an easy meal.
Grazin’ Acres, Nate and Meghan offer a range of pork and chicken products ideal for grilling season. “Pork chops are always great and easy with salt, pepper, garlic, and oil,” says Nate. “One of our family favorites is a whole chicken, halved and grilled slow and low at 200 degrees, and the chicken is juicy and just falls apart.”
Lamb is another flavorful option available at the market. Thymeless Homestead and Wintervine Farm both offer pasture-raised lamb products perfect for grilling, from chops to sausages and other cuts that shine with simple seasonings and fresh herbs.
Ghost Light Farm sells grass-fed beef at the Wednesday market, offering more local options for burgers, steaks, and kabobs.
Vegetarians can find options at The Mushroom Shop. Elise recommends oyster mushrooms for their grilled flavor and texture. Brush with oil, season, and grill for 8-10 minutes per side.
Whether it’s a backyard cookout or weeknight dinner, Saratoga Farmers’ Market is full of fresh ingredients and expert advice to inspire your next meal. Visit local farmers, explore new favorites, and bring something special to your grill this season.
The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open on Wednesdays 3–6 PM and Saturdays 9 AM–1 PM at High Rock Park in downtown Saratoga Springs. Our market in Clifton Park is open Mondays 2–5 PM. Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SaratogaFarmersMarket.
