Your Summer Produce Buying Guide

Shopping at your local farmer's market during summer provides sensory delights and allows for significant savings. By choosing seasonal produce, you enjoy fruits and vegetables at their peak flavor with optimal nutritional benefits, often at reduced prices due to higher availability.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes truly shine during the summer months, serving as a versatile favorite in many seasonal dishes. From vibrant fresh salsas and rich homemade pasta sauces to refreshing gazpachos and colorful salads, the culinary possibilities with tomatoes are endless when they're in season. To select the best tomatoes, opt for those with a glossy exterior and a firm texture. For optimal freshness, store tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight and plan to use them within a week after purchase.

2. Strawberries

Strawberries are available in grocery stores year-round, but they truly thrive and are traditionally harvested in the spring and early summer. Although supermarkets strive to stock them throughout the year for convenience, the quality and taste of out-of-season strawberries can't match those harvested at their natural peak. Moreover, the cost of strawberries during off-season periods is significantly higher due to the extensive shipping and storage required to keep them fresh. For example, strawberries not in season might travel long distances by air to be available in winter, leading to higher prices. Choosing strawberries during their natural season ensures you enjoy the best flavor and value.

3. Corn

Corn is essential to any summer feast! It's incredibly gratifying to pick fresh corn still wrapped in its husk. When selecting corn, look for ears with vibrant green husks and silky, fresh threads, ensuring the kernels are snug and plentiful — a peek under the husk can help confirm their quality. To maintain its freshness, store the corn in your refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Adding corn to your dishes, much like incorporating fresh tomatoes, can elevate the flavors of your favorite summer recipes.

4. Peaches

Peaches, though fragile, are a delightful addition to any summer menu. When selecting peaches, choose those without any spots or blemishes to ensure they remain firm for longer. If your peaches aren't quite ripe yet, place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature to ripen. Remember, peaches should not be refrigerated unless fully ripe as cold storage can diminish their texture and flavor prematurely. Despite their need for careful handling, peaches contribute wonderfully to a variety of summer recipes, making them a cherished seasonal treat.

5. Cherries

Cherries grace us with their presence from May through August, with Bing and Rainier varieties being particularly popular. Sour or tart cherries, however, enjoy a brief season, typically appearing for just a couple of weeks around mid-June in warmer climates, and extending into July and August in cooler areas. When purchasing cherries at your local market, don't hesitate to sample one; most vendors are happy to let you taste their cherries to ensure satisfaction. Cherries are not only perfect for a quick, healthy snack but also shine as a delightful ingredient in various desserts.

Embracing the bounty of summer produce enhances your diet, supports local farmers, and cuts down on environmental impacts. Enjoy the season's best by filling your basket with these top picks.

References: SAVE MONEY BY CHOOSING SEASONAL PRODUCE | Summer Produce: What's In Season and How To Use It