December produce

Seasonal Produce in December

December is a wonderful month to explore the rich array of winter produce. During this time, many fruits and vegetables are at their peak flavor, offering both nutrition and seasonal delight. Here’s a guide to some of the best produce available in December.

Fruits

Citrus Fruits

• Oranges: Juicy and refreshing, oranges are abundant in December. They're perfect for juicing or enjoying as a sweet snack.

• Clementines: These small, easy-to-peel fruits are a holiday favorite, offering a burst of vitamin C.

• Grapefruits: With their tangy flavor, grapefruits are excellent for breakfast or in salads.

Apples

• Varieties: Many varieties, such as Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith, are still available and maintain their crispness and flavor.

Pears

• Bosc and Anjou: These varieties are perfect for baking or enjoying raw with cheese.

Pomegranates

• Arils: The juicy, jewel-like seeds are perfect for adding a pop of color and flavor to any dish.

Vegetables

Root Vegetables

• Carrots: Sweet and crunchy, carrots are versatile for soups, stews, or roasting.

• Beets: Earthy and sweet, beets add vibrant color and nutrients to any meal.

• Turnips and Rutabagas: These hearty root vegetables are excellent for roasting or mashing.

Leafy Greens

• Kale: Hardy and nutritious, kale is perfect for salads, soups, or sautéing.

• Collard Greens: These leafy greens are ideal for slow cooking and hold up well in hearty dishes.

Cruciferous Vegetables

• Brussels Sprouts: These mini-cabbages are delicious when roasted or sautéed.

• Cabbage: Versatile and packed with nutrients, cabbage can be used in slaws, soups, or fermented as sauerkraut.

Squash

• Butternut and Acorn: These winter squashes are sweet and nutty, perfect for soups or roasting.

Herbs

Rosemary and Thyme

• These herbs thrive in cooler months and add warmth and fragrance to roasted dishes and stews.

Tips for Choosing December Produce

• Look for Bright Colors: Fruits and vegetables should have vibrant, rich colors.

• Check for Firmness: Produce should be firm to the touch, with no soft spots or blemishes.

• Smell for Freshness: A fresh, pleasant aroma is a good indicator of quality, especially for citrus fruits.

Cooking Ideas

• Roasted Winter Vegetables: Combine carrots, beets, and squash with rosemary and olive oil for a delicious roasted dish.

• Citrus Salad: Mix oranges and grapefruits with arugula and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

• Hearty Soups: Use root vegetables and leafy greens to create nourishing winter soups.

Enjoy experimenting with December's seasonal produce to create flavorful and nutritious meals!