How to eat with the seasons
To become an informed eater, it is important to understand the benefits of eating seasonally. Not only does it support local farmers and reduce the carbon footprint, but it also provides us with the freshest and most nutritious produce available. We will help you apply the concept of eating seasonally, what foods to eat during each season, and how to incorporate them into your diet.
What does it mean to eat seasonally?
Eating seasonally means consuming fruits and vegetables that are naturally harvested during a specific time of the year. This practice aligns with the natural growing cycles of plants and ensures that we are consuming produce at its peak freshness and nutritional value.
Why should you eat seasonally?
Nutritional value: Seasonal produce is harvested at its peak ripeness, meaning it contains higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Environmental impact: By eating seasonally, you support local farmers and reduce the need for long-distance transportation, which helps to lower carbon emissions.
Cost-effective: Seasonal produce is often more affordable as it is abundant during its peak season.
Flavorful: Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to have a better taste and texture compared to their out-of-season counterparts.
What to eat during each season?
Now, let's explore what foods are in season during each season:
Spring (March to May)
- Asparagus
- Artichokes
- Peas
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Strawberries
Summer (June to August)
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Berries
- Watermelon
- Corn
- Zucchini
Fall (September to November)
- Pumpkin
- Apples
- Pears
- Squash
- Brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower
Winter (December to February)
- Kale
- Citrus fruits
- Pomegranates
- Root vegetables
- Broccoli
- Beets
How to incorporate seasonal foods into your diet?
Here are some tips to help you incorporate seasonal foods into your daily meals:
- Shop all your favorite seasonal goods on GOOD2TABLE.
- Plan your meals around the seasonal ingredients available.
- Experiment with new recipes that highlight the flavors of seasonal produce.
- Visit your local farmers market to find the freshest seasonal produce.
- Consider preserving or freezing excess seasonal produce for later use.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of eating seasonally while supporting local farmers and nourishing your body with the best nature has to offer. So, why not start incorporating more seasonal foods into your diet today?