Why the Best Thanksgiving Sides Start at the Farmers Market

Thanksgiving is all about cherished traditions, and it’s also the perfect time to start a few new ones. Update your family’s classic dishes with fresh, local ingredients from the Hoboken Farmers Market. With an abundance of seasonal produce and unique finds, the market offers endless inspiration for side dishes that can become new favorites for years to come.

Here are some standout ingredients that will take your side dishes from predictable to unforgettable.

Root Vegetables & Squash
Sweet potatoes, carrots, and winter squash like acorn and butternut are quintessential fall staples. But instead of the usual sweet potato casserole, consider a savory spin: top roasted sweet potatoes with a crumble cheese, fresh walnuts, and a drizzle of local honey for a mix of sweet and crunchy textures. Or stuff acorn squash halves with a filling of wild rice, diced apples, mushrooms, and sage —an earthy, fragrant dish that’s sure to impress.

Brussels Sprouts & Cabbage
Brussels sprouts roasted to a golden brown and tossed in a tangy apple cider glaze are become a crowd favorite. Try adding a sprinkle of dried cranberries and a handful of toasted nuts for a sweet and savory combination. Alternatively, a shredded cabbage salad mixed with fresh citrus segments and a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing counterpoint to heavier sides like stuffing and mashed potatoes.

Gourmet Additions (Mushrooms, Cheeses, Sourdough bread)
Looking to add a touch of indulgence to your table? Incorporate gourmet mushrooms into a rich, creamy gratin topped with fresh mozzarella for a decadent, umami-packed side dish. Use local sourdough bread and fresh herbs, like rosemary and thyme, for your stuffing.

One of the joys of shopping at a local farmers market is discovering unexpected ingredients that can give your dishes an extra layer of flavor. For instance, grab a bottle of fresh apple cider to use as a glaze for roasted carrots—its sweet-tart flavor will caramelize beautifully in the oven. Or, stir in some creamy cheese into your mashed potatoes to add a luxurious, velvety texture that elevates this classic side.

This Thanksgiving, let your side dishes shine with the best that Hoboken’s Farmers Market has to offer. By choosing fresh, local ingredients, you’re not just preparing a meal—you’re creating an experience that celebrates the season and supports incredible community.

And don’t forget the pie!

Harvesting Halloween: Local Produce and Homemade Delights

October in Hoboken is a highlight of the year! The air starts to chill, leaves start falling, and the festive spirit of Halloween can be found everywhere in our beautiful (and oh so spooky) Mile Square City!  

It is also the perfect time to explore the bountiful fall harvest at the Hoboken Farmers Market. Let’s dive into the top fall produce and creative ways you can turn your Farmers Market haul into Halloween magic!

In-Season New Jersey Produce for October

October is a golden month for fresh produce in New Jersey.
Here are some highlights of what you’ll find from Stony Hill Farms, Union Hill Farms, Melick’s Town Farm, and Circle Brook Farm:

• Pumpkins: Of course, pumpkins steal the show this month! Whether you're looking for carving jack-o-lanterns, decorative stoop decor, or making a creamy soup, you'll find the perfect variety right here at the market.

• Did you know: The flesh of smaller “sugar pumpkins” is sweeter and less stringy—perfect for soups and baked goods.

• Apples: Crisp, juicy apples are at their peak in October and the Farmers Market brings you over a dozen different varieties!

• Squash: From Acorn to Butternut to Delicata squash, these hearty veggies make for delicious, warming fall meals. They’re also perfect for decorating your home—use a few as natural centerpieces!

• Sweet Potatoes: Earthy and sweet, these are a must-have for savory Halloween dishes. They're a healthier and delicious option for fries!

• Peppers: Crisp and colorful, all the colors autumn are reflected in the many varieties of sweet and hot peppers that can be found at the market.

Not sure what to do with all this delicious produce? Keep reading for Halloween ideas that make the most of these fresh finds!

Halloween Recipes with a Fresh Twist

Time to get cooking! Using fresh, local ingredients from the Hoboken Farmers Market, you can whip up some Halloween treats that are as tasty as they are festive. Here are a few recipes to get you started:

• Creamy Pumpkin Soup: This warm and comforting soup is the perfect dish for a chilly October night. Made with fresh pumpkins from the market, a little cream, and a dash of nutmeg, it’s a cozy meal that can be served in small pumpkin bowls for a truly Halloween-themed presentation.

• Bonus: Roast the pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, healthy snack to enjoy alongside the soup!

• Sweet Potato “Jack-o-Lantern” Fries: Get some sweet potatoes from the market, cut them into jack-o-lantern shapes using a small knife or cookie cutter, and bake them into crispy, savory fries. Serve with a side of garlic aioli for dipping.

• Spooky Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and carve them like jack-o-lanterns. Then stuff them with a hearty mix of quinoa, beans, and veggies for a nutritious meal that’s both filling and festive. These make a great Halloween-themed dinner that’s also kid-friendly!

• "Monster Smoothies": Grab some fresh spinach, kale, and apples from the market to whip up a green "monster smoothie." Blend the greens with bananas, a splash of apple cider, and yogurt for a healthy, bright green drink. Serve it in a clear glass with “monster eyes” made from sticking raisins to the side using a dab of honey. It’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies without kids even noticing!

• Pumpkin “Pizza”: Get creative with your pizza-making by using butternut squash or pumpkin puree as a base for your sauce. Spread the puree over whole wheat crust and add toppings like mozzarella "ghosts" (cut into ghost shapes using a cookie cutter) and olive "spider" slices. It’s a delicious way to put a Halloween spin on a classic favorite while using local ingredients!

More Autumn Treats from our Purveyors

• Cider: Pick up some locally-pressed apple cider for a sweet beverage as well as addition to baking. We’ve got hard cider, too, for adding that little somethin’ somethin’.

• Donuts: Enjoy Apple Cider donuts from Melick’s Town Farm and Stony Hill Farms as well as special flavors of the season from Do Good Donuts. We even have gluten-free varieties from Hayley’s Donut.

• Nuts & Dried Fruit: Get your fresh and beautifully colorful dried apricots, dried kiwis, and nuts from Gourmet Nuts & Dried Fruit to create seasonally spooky boards.

Why Supporting Local is Spooky Good for the Community

Shopping at the Hoboken Farmers Market isn't just about great food—it's about supporting your local community. Every pumpkin, apple, and squash you buy helps keep New Jersey farms thriving and ensures that Hoboken stays connected to its roots (literally!).

So when you shop for your Halloween goodies, you're not just getting the freshest produce—you’re also making a spooky-good impact on local farmers. Plus, you’ll be joining your neighbors in celebrating the best the season has to offer.

Hoboken Farmers Market has everything you need for a sustainable, local, and truly festive holiday.

Stop by any of our three weekly markets, explore the seasonal produce, and let your imagination run wild.

Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media by tagging @HobokenFarmersMarket—we can’t wait to see how you’re celebrating fall in Hoboken!

From Farm to Table: What New Jersey Farmers Are Bringing to Hoboken This August

August in New Jersey is a time of abundance. At this time of year, Hoboken’s Farmers Markets are bursting with a colorful array of fresh, seasonal produce. The tables brim with the best fruits and vegetables that local farms have to offer, from juicy Jersey tomatoes and crisp sweet corn to fragrant basil and succulent peaches. Each week, our markets bring together the freshest harvests, all carefully cultivated by local New Jersey farmers.

Our markets create a vibrant atmosphere where the community comes together, connecting neighbors with the local farmers who feed them. Here at the 3 Hoboken Farmers Markets, we celebrate the season’s bounty and the people who make it possible.

The Bounty of August: What’s in Season?

August is a peak month for local produce in New Jersey, and Hoboken’s Farmers Markets are brimming with some of the freshest, most flavorful offerings you’ll find all year. As you stroll through the market, you’ll see an impressive variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, all sourced from nearby farms. Here are some of the star players of the season:

• Jersey Tomatoes: Known far and wide for their unbeatable flavor, Jersey tomatoes are at their best in August. From heirloom varieties with their unique shapes and colors to classic red beefsteaks perfect for slicing, there’s no shortage of these plump, juicy gems.

• Sweet Corn: New Jersey sweet corn is legendary, and August is the time to enjoy it at its sweetest. Whether you prefer it grilled, boiled, or raw in salads, this summer staple is a must-buy at the market.

• Peaches: Few things taste more like summer than a ripe, juicy New Jersey peach. These golden orbs burst with sweetness, making them perfect for everything from snacking to baking in desserts like cobblers or tarts.

• Zucchini & Summer Squash: These versatile vegetables are abundant in August. Whether spiralized into "zoodles," grilled to perfection, or baked into breads and muffins, zucchini and squash are a great way to pack nutrients into your meals.

• Blueberries: August might be the tail end of blueberry season, but you can still find these little blue jewels at the market. They’re perfect for baking, adding to cereal, or simply enjoying by the handful.

• Basil & Fresh Herbs: Local farmers bring a fragrant selection of herbs to the market in August, with basil being a standout. Its bright, peppery flavor complements many summer dishes, from caprese salads to fresh pesto.

Shopping for seasonal produce doesn’t just taste better—it’s better for you. Fruits and vegetables harvested in their natural season have a higher nutritional value and richer flavor than those grown out of season or shipped long distances. Plus, shopping seasonally supports local agriculture and ensures you’re getting the freshest food possible. So, when you come to the market this August, be sure to load up on these seasonal delights to bring the true flavors of summer to your table.

Meet the Farmers Behind the Produce

Behind every fresh tomato and sweet peach at Hoboken’s Farmers Markets are the dedicated farmers who work tirelessly to bring the best of New Jersey’s fields to your table. This August, we’re proud to showcase some of the farms that make our market special.

• Stony Hill Farms: A family-owned farm nestled in Chester, NJ, Stony Hill Farms is known for its wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re after a juicy peach to bite into or berries for your next dessert, Stony Hill’s selection is second to none. Their produce speaks to generations of farming expertise and a commitment to quality that you can taste.

• Circle Brook Farm: This certified organic farm in Andover, NJ, is a must-stop for anyone looking for the freshest vegetables. From vibrant zucchinis and squash to some of the most flavorful heirloom tomatoes, Circle Brook Farm’s offerings are perfect for shoppers who care about sustainable practices. Every vegetable they sell is grown with the utmost care, without the use of synthetic chemicals, ensuring you get nothing but pure, fresh food.

• Union Hill Farms: Located in Denville, NJ, Union Hill Farms offers some of the sweetest sweet corn you’ll find at the market. Their cornfields have been a family tradition for over 50 years, and the farm continues to be a trusted provider of delicious summer staples. Alongside their famous corn, you’ll also find zucchini, squash, and fresh herbs to round out your meals.

• Melick’s Town Farm: With over 300 acres of farmland spread across Oldwick and Califon, NJ, Melick’s Farm is one of the largest apple growers in the state. However, this time of year, they shine with their late-summer peaches and vegetables. Be sure to stop by for a taste of some of the freshest produce you can find.

These farms aren’t just suppliers—they are deeply rooted in the fabric of Hoboken’s Farmers Markets. Each week, they literally bring the fruits of their labor to our community, offering produce that is not only fresher than anything you’ll find in a grocery store but also grown with the care and attention that only local farmers can provide. When you shop from these farms, you’re not just buying food—you’re supporting New Jersey’s agricultural heritage and fostering a stronger, more connected community.

Recipe Corner: Cooking with August Produce

There’s something magical about turning the fresh, vibrant produce from the farmers market into a delicious, home-cooked meal. Whether you're planning a summer gathering or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, these recipes will help you celebrate August’s best flavors. Using seasonal ingredients like Jersey tomatoes, basil, and peaches, these dishes are both easy to make and bursting with freshness.

Recipe 1: Summer Heirloom Tomato Salad with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella

Ingredients:

• 4-5 ripe heirloom tomatoes (from Circle Brook Farm)

• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella, sliced (from Hoboken Farms)

• 1 bunch of fresh basil (from Union Hill Farms)

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the heirloom tomatoes into thick rounds and arrange them on a serving plate.

2. Layer the fresh mozzarella slices between the tomato slices.

3. Tear the basil leaves by hand and sprinkle them generously over the tomatoes and mozzarella.

4. Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve immediately, and enjoy the burst of summer flavor from every bite!

This simple salad is the perfect way to let the sweetness and acidity of Jersey tomatoes shine. Paired with creamy mozzarella and fresh basil, it’s an elegant dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Recipe 2: Grilled Peach Cobbler

Ingredients:

• 4 large ripe peaches (from Stony Hill Farms or Melick’s Farm)

• 2 tablespoons of melted butter

• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

• Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.

2. Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits.

3. Brush the peach halves with melted butter and sprinkle them with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.

4. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the peaches are soft and have grill marks.

5. Flip the peaches over and cook for another 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sugar.

6. Remove from the grill and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

This grilled peach cobbler is a delicious, no-fuss dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of summer peaches. With just a hint of cinnamon and brown sugar, these grilled peaches are perfect for a casual dinner or even a summer BBQ.

Visit Us at the Market!

Come experience the magic of Hoboken’s Farmers Markets for yourself! With three market days each week, each featuring a unique mix of vendors, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you're shopping for your weekly groceries or just stopping by for some fresh flowers and a treat, our markets have something for everyone.

• Tuesday Market: Swing by Church Square Park for certified organic produce from Circle Brook Farm, seasonal delights like juicy peaches from Melick’s Farm, and a vibrant array of vegetables from Union Hill Farm.

• Thursday Market: Located at the Southwest Park, this market is perfect to get all you need for the weekend. Get your fresh veggies and fruit from Stony Hill Farms and pickles from Frank's Picklicious.

• Saturday Market: Under the 14th Street Viaduct you can find a little bit of everything—from heirloom tomatoes to meats, cheeses, fish, sweets, and even dog treats. Enjoy live music and special events for the whole family.

Supporting your local farmers market is a fun, rewarding way to connect with your community while enjoying the freshest food possible. We encourage you to come out, meet the farmers, taste the difference, and bring the flavors of August home with you.

What are you waiting for? Grab your reusable bags and we’ll see you at the market this week!

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