Fresh Tomatoes from Farmers Markets

We went to the Crystal Lake Farmers Market last weekend and picked up an amazing selection of tomatoes. As soon as I saw that gorgeous table of tomatoes at Depot Park, I knew I had to make my tomato salad.

I don’t bother with lettuce, just cut up chunks of fresh veggies like cucumbers, summer squash, red onion, red bell pepper, and whatever else looks good. Then I toss that in an olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing with the juice of a lemon and some thyme. It’s so delicious and refreshing on a humid day.

The Crystal Lake Farmer’s Market is pretty small compared to Woodstock’s farmers market (which, by the way, was voted the best in Illinois in 2012), but I love walking through the downtown to get a coffee and do some shopping before picking up fresh local produce.

These beets made such a pretty display on the table that I had to snap a picture. What will you find at your farmer’s market?

In addition to Crystal Lake and Woodstock, Cary, Huntley, and McHenry also host farmers’ markets in McHenry County. Head over to the closest one and support our local farmers while enjoying a stroll. Better yet — tour them all. There’s still time to hit three of them before the season ends.

Which one is your favorite?

Markets in McHenry County

Rather than updating information in this post, be sure to check out our new ongoing guide to

Farmers’ Markets in McHenry County!