Discover the Best of Summer at Farmers Markets Around Cedar Rapids

Iowa is a powerhouse in American agriculture, leading the nation in producing corn, soybeans, pork and eggs, thanks to rich, fertile soil and a perfect farming climate. The Hawkeye State also boasts more than 200 bustling farmers markets and horticulture fairs, brimming with locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, unique crafts and an array of products from eggs and meat to wine and cheese.

Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time visitor, summer is the perfect time to explore a farmers market in Cedar Rapids, Marion or Hiawatha. These farm-to-table markets are a feast for the senses and a cornucopia of fresh, local ingredients that can elevate your culinary adventures.

In this blog, we’ll dig into the Cedar Rapids farmers market schedule, offer menu-planning ideas and share tips for cooking with fresh fruits and veggies. We’ll also share how the talented culinary team at Cottage Grove Place transforms fresh finds from the Cedar Rapids farmers markets into tasty and healthy meals for our residents.

Downtown Farmers Market, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Rated a “Best in Class” Farmers Market by American Farmland Trust, the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market is back for its 19th season. A summer tradition for locals and visitors, the market features live entertainment, delicious food and over 200 vendors. The award-winning event runs 7:30 a.m. to noon on the upcoming Saturdays: July 20, Aug. 3, Aug. 17 and Sept. 21. (Tip: With an average of 12,000 attendees each week, arriving early guarantees you’ll snag the freshest produce and avoid the crowds.)

Another can’t-miss Cedar Rapids market kicks off when the sun goes down on Saturday, Aug. 24. Market After Dark is a free, open-air event that transforms downtown into a vibrant celebration. From 6:30 to 11 p.m. attendees can soak up summer vibes at this bustling Cedar Rapids night market filled with vendors, entertainment, food, beer and wine, and art.

If you want to check out what nearby communities have to offer, head to the Marion Farmers Market in Taube Park. It’s open Saturdays from 8 to 11 a.m. through September and offers a diverse selection of goods produced by local vendors, including produce, fresh baked goods, flowers and homemade crafts.

Just 15 minutes east of the Marion, Iowa farmers market is the Hiawatha Farmers Market. It’s open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays through October. Each week, vendors from all over the state gather to offer a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, baked goods, honey, meat, and arts and crafts.

Tips and Menu-Planning with Farmers Market Finds

Once you get home with your farmers market haul, wash your fruits and vegetables to remove dirt, bacteria or pesticides. Hold the produce under cold running water and gently scrub the surface with your hands or a soft brush. After washing, dry the produce with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any remaining bacteria.

If you plan to peel fruits and vegetables, wash them first to prevent transferring dirt and bacteria from the surface to the inside. Store washed and dried produce in clean containers in the refrigerator or on the counter to maintain freshness. Leafy greens should be kept in a crisper drawer, while tomatoes are best stored at room temperature.

When it’s time to start menu-planning, here are a few ideas to help inspire you:

• Salads: Combine crisp lettuce, arugula and spinach with colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet corn and bell peppers. Add a sprinkle of goat cheese, like feta or chevre and a light vinaigrette.
• Grilled veggies: You can use a combination of zucchini, squash, eggplant, bell peppers, corn on the cob, mushrooms or onions. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper, then grill until tender and slightly charred. Don’t be afraid to try new spices and seasonings when preparing veggies. A little garlic, lemon zest or cumin can transform a dish.
• Fruit desserts: Fresh berries, peaches, pears, plums and apples make perfect bases for cobblers, crisps and simple fruit salads. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a sweet finishing touch.
• Hearty soups: For a nourishing summer soup, use tomatoes, carrots and greens like kale or Swiss chard. Pair with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance the flavors. Chop them finely and add them at the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant taste.

Your Table Awaits at Cottage Grove Place

At Cottage Grove Place, fresh, locally sourced ingredients are critical to a healthy and delicious dining experience. You can rest assured the bounty from the farmers markets in Cedar Rapids will find its way to your plate, prepared with care and creativity by our talented culinary team. By incorporating fresh finds into our menu, we ensure our residents enjoy nutritious meals celebrating the region’s flavors.

Here, dining is more than a meal. It’s an experience where you can indulge in a symphony of flavors and diverse dining options. Our formal dining room exudes elegance and charm, offering dishes that cater to every craving. The chef-prepared menu brims with fresh selections, daily specials and your favorite comfort foods.

For more casual and lively dining–inside or outdoors in our courtyard–the Cottage Grill is a go-to for bistro classics and contemporary deli favorites. If you’re on the move, take your order to go and enjoy it wherever your adventures take you.

Discover how Cottage Grove Place elevates residents’ culinary experiences, turning every meal into a celebration of taste and community.

Featured Image: Jelena Stanojkovic