Seasonal Eating: Summer in North America
As we enter early summer in North America, it’s time to assess what’s in season to maximize the benefits of eating seasonally. Produce is more nutrient-dense when harvested at its peak which is important when eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Keep in mind, you can often find foods packaged at their peak—frozen berries or frozen corn for example—and it’s a good second best, but nothing beats eating fresh produce. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are fresher and tastier and more environmentally friendly because of the reduced carbon footprint from shorter transportation distances. This is especially true when you shop at local farmer stands and farmers market which helps sustain local agriculture and economies. So let’s get into seasonal eating for the summer in North America.
Summer Fruits
Summer is the prime season for a wide variety of fruits:
Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are abundant and at their sweetest.
Stone Fruits: Peaches, nectarines, plums, apricots, and cherries are juicy and flavorful.
Melons: Watermelons, cantaloupes, and honeydews are refreshing and hydrating.
Other Fruits: Pineapples, mangoes, and figs are also in season in many parts of North America.
Summer Vegetables:
Many vegetables are also at their best during the summer months:
Tomatoes: Known for their rich flavor, summer tomatoes are perfect for salads, sauces, and sandwiches.
Corn: Sweet corn is a summer staple, ideal for grilling, boiling, or eating right off the cob.
Cucumbers: Crisp and cool, cucumbers are great for salads, pickles, and as a hydrating snack.
Zucchini and Summer Squash: Versatile and easy to cook, these are perfect for grilling, roasting, or making into noodles.
Bell Peppers: Colorful and crunchy, they can be eaten raw, grilled, or stuffed.
Summer Herbs
Fresh herbs thrive in the summer and can add flavor to any dish:
Basil: Perfect for pesto, salads, and as a topping for fresh tomatoes.
Mint: Great for drinks, salads, and desserts.
Cilantro: Adds a fresh touch to salsas, salads, and many Mexican and Asian dishes.
Dill: Excellent for pickling, and adds flavor to fish and potato dishes.
Eating seasonally in the summer in North America is a delightful way to enjoy the freshest and most flavorful produce while supporting local agriculture and sustainability efforts.
