AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — As Alabama farmers markets begin to open, fresh and nutrient-rich produce — like tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers and summer squash — become more readily available. However, unlike packaged food, these fresh fruits and vegetables do not come with cooking instructions or nutrition labels. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program–Education team with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System is changing that through Tasty Tidbits, a series of guides on preparing, storing and serving fresh produce.

Kristen Sanders, a SNAP-Ed agent in Pike and Crenshaw counties, has spent considerable time engaging with community members at local farmers markets. Her mission is simple: promote the importance of incorporating fresh produce into daily meals — a message echoed by nutrition experts nationwide.

“At farmers markets, I have a table set up with one or two food recipe demonstrations made with the produce that is currently available,” Sanders said. “This allows shoppers to taste a simple recipe using the fruits and vegetables that can then be bought.”

It was through these conversations with community members that Sanders recognized the need for an easy guide on preparing fresh produce. In response, Sanders and the SNAP-Ed team created the Tasty Tidbits series. Each Tasty Tidbit highlights a fruit or vegetable commonly found at farmers markets in Alabama. Each entry includes helpful details about nutrition facts, storage tips, preparation methods, creative ways to enjoy the produce and simple, budget-friendly recipes.

Family Friendly and Budget Conscious

Tasty Tidbits offers a flavorful way to embrace fresh, local food by trying one recipe at a time. The team developed the recipes using a mix of fresh produce and everyday pantry staples. This not only encourages healthy eating but also promotes affordability and reduces food waste.

“We’ve made it a goal to create a series of recipes that are easy to prepare and use minimal ingredients,” said Sofia Sanchez, a registered dietitian with Extension. “The recipes also provide great flavor while including information about the health benefits of the main ingredient, plus food storage and safety tips.”

 The Tasty Tidbits collection also includes items like canned chicken, dried beans and whole grains. These shelf-stable items allow families to stretch their food dollars while still preparing nutritious and satisfying meals. However, the series is more than just a recipe collection — it’s a bridge between Alabama’s farmers markets and the dinner tables of local families. This resource empowers shoppers by removing the guesswork from cooking fresh produce.

Learn More

To view the Tasty Tidbits series, visit the Live Well Recipes section of www.LiveWellAlabama.com. There, you will also find valuable resources, practical advice and insights to support your wellness journey.

For those looking to connect with others interested in a healthy lifestyle, consider following Live Well Alabama on social media. Their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram platforms offer a space to share experiences, find inspiration and join a community focused on well-being.