As summer approaches, we’re greeted with warm weather, longer days, and a delightful array of in-season produce. Each fruit and vegetable thrives under specific growing conditions, leading to a seasonal rotation of fresh options. Embracing in-season produce can be a healthier, tastier, and more cost-efficient way to enjoy your fruits and vegetables.

Nutrient Rich and Flavorful

Fresh seasonal produce boasts higher nutrient levels than its out-of-season counterparts. In-season fruits and vegetables ripen naturally, while out-of-season options often endure early picking, cooling, and heating processes that can diminish their nutritional value and flavor. With in-season produce, the shorter journey from farm to table helps maintain its nutritional integrity and robust flavor, ensuring a more enjoyable eating experience.

Cost Efficiency

Eating seasonally is also a savvy financial choice. When crops are abundant, prices drop, making in-season produce more affordable. Opting for locally sourced produce further cuts costs, as reduced travel and storage expenses lower production costs, in turn lowering cost to consumers. Supporting local farms not only stretches your budget but also boosts the local economy. When you buy from local farmers, you keep money within the community, helping to stimulate economic growth.

Support Your Community

Purchasing locally sourced produce has broader benefits beyond personal health and savings. It strengthens local farms and economies, fostering a sense of community and sustainability. By choosing to buy from local growers, you're contributing to a thriving local market, ensuring that your community reaps the benefits.

As you plan your meals this summer, consider the advantages of eating in-season produce. It's a simple choice that supports your health, your wallet, and your local community. Enjoy the bounty of the season and savor the flavors that summer has to offer.

What’s In-Season This Summer? Choose a new food to try!

June

• Beets
• Collards
• Mushrooms
• Plums
• Yellow squash
• Blackberries
• Cucumbers
• Mustard greens
• Potatoes
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Eggplant
• Napa
• Radishes
• Corn
• Bokchoy
• Green onion
• Onions
• Raspberries
• Tomatoes
• Cabbage
• Greens
• Peaches
• Snap beans
• Turnip
• Carrots
• Kale
• Peppers
• Snow peas
• Zucchini

July

• Blackberries
• Cucumbers
• Honeydew*
• Plums*
• Tomatoes
• Butterbeans *
• Eggplant
• Nectarines*
• Potatoes
• Watermelon*
• Cabbage
• Figs*
• Okra *
• Snap beans
• Zucchini
• Cantaloupe*
• Garlic*
• Onions
• Sprite melons*
• Carrots
• Green onion
• Peaches
• Yellow squash*
• Cherry tomatoes*
• Greens
• Peppers
• Corn

Recipes:

Minted Watermelon Salad

Farmers' Market Recipes: Garden Frittata, Soulful Greens, Baked Zucchini, Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers & more

By: Lindsey Eng, MPH, Dietetic Intern