What is “Eating Seasonally”?
Eating seasonally simply means enjoying foods at the time of year they naturally grow and ripen in your region. Before supermarkets shipped produce year-round, seasonal eating was the norm – apples in fall, strawberries in summer, leafy greens in spring. Today we can buy almost anything at any time of year, but there are benefits to choosing what’s in season whenever possible.
Why Seasonal Eating Matters:
-
Better flavor: Produce picked at its peak tastes sweeter, juicier, and more vibrant.
-
More nutrients: When fruits and vegetables are harvested at the right time and travel less, they retain more vitamins and minerals.
-
Budget-friendly: Seasonal produce is usually cheaper because it’s abundant and doesn’t require long-distance shipping.
-
Supports local farmers: Buying in-season food often means supporting local agriculture and reducing environmental impact.
Simple Ways to Start Eating Seasonally
✅ Check a seasonal produce guide
Search for “what’s in season” in your state. Seasonal charts are easy to find and can help you plan recipes or grocery lists – check out this guide to get started.
✅ Buy one new seasonal item each week
Start small – maybe spring asparagus, summer berries, fall squash, or winter citrus. Try incorporating it into a meal or snack you already make.
✅ Visit a farmers’ market
This is one of the easiest ways to eat seasonally because local farmers sell what’s currently growing. Plus, you can ask how and where it was grown (and recommendations on how to prepare it!).
✅ Join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture)
A CSA subscription delivers a box of fresh, seasonal produce to you directly from a local farm. It’s great for discovering new ingredients. This is especially helpful if you can’t always make it to the farmers’ market!
✅ Preserve while it’s fresh
When something is in peak season – and often cheaper – freeze, blend, or can it. Think frozen berries for smoothies or homemade tomato sauce for winter pasta nights.
Final Thought
Eating seasonally doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Swapping a few produce items based on what’s fresh can boost flavor, save money, and support a healthier food system. Start simple, stay curious, and let the seasons guide your plate.
