What’s In Season In May
I love to buy produce when it is in season. What I can get at the local farmers market in season during the warm months is absolutely amazing. When it comes to ver the winter in-season produce from other areas in the country is often much cheaper and always much more flavorful than things that are not in season.
This guide to in season produce for May will help you get the most for your food budget and give your family the most nutrients by making these part of your daily diet.
Why you should buy in-season produce
Buying produce that is in season offers a number of benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider buying in-season produce:
Better flavor: Produce that is in season is generally fresher and has a better flavor than produce that is shipped from far away or grown out of season. When produce is harvested at the peak of its ripeness, it often has a richer, sweeter taste and a better texture.
More affordable: Because in-season produce is abundant, it is usually more affordable than out-of-season produce. This means you can enjoy a wider variety of fruits and vegetables without breaking the bank. This is vital to helping feed your family whole foods on a budget.
Better for the environment: When you buy produce that is in season, it is often grown locally, which means it hasn’t had to travel as far to get to your plate. This reduces the carbon footprint of your food and supports local farmers.
Nutrient-dense: Produce that is in season is typically harvested at its peak ripeness, which means it is also at its nutritional peak. This means you are getting the most nutrients and health benefits from your produce.
Supports local farmers: When you buy in-season produce from local farmers, you are supporting the local economy and helping to sustain small farms. This creates a more resilient food system and ensures that there are fresh, healthy foods available in your community.
What’s in season in May
Asparagus
Asparagus is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that’s typically harvested in the spring, making May a great time to enjoy it. Asparagus is high in fiber and vitamin C, and can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or used in soups and salads.
:: Roast asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
:: Sauté asparagus with mushrooms and onions as a side dish.
:: Grill asparagus and serve with balsamic vinegar and shaved Parmesan cheese.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that’s also in season in May. It’s high in vitamins C and K, and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to casseroles.
:: Roast broccoli with olive oil and garlic.
:: Make a broccoli and cheddar soup.
:: Add broccoli to a stir-fry with your favorite protein and vegetables.
Carrots
Carrots are a root vegetable that are in season in the spring, making May a great time to enjoy them. Carrots are high in fiber and vitamin A, and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups.
:: Shred carrots and add them to a salad.
:: Roast carrots with honey and thyme.
:: Make a carrot and ginger soup.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that’s in season in the spring, making May a great time to enjoy it. It’s high in fiber and vitamin C, and can be roasted, mashed, or used as a substitute for rice or potatoes.
:: Make cauliflower rice as a low-carb substitute for rice.
:: Roast cauliflower with curry powder and cumin.
:: Make a cauliflower and cheese casserole.
Cherries
Cherries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that are typically in season in May in some regions. They’re high in antioxidants and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of desserts, from pies to cobblers.
:: Make a cherry pie or cobbler.
:: We love making fresh cherry jelly
:: Add cherries to a salad with goat cheese and walnuts.
:: Make a cherry sauce to serve with grilled chicken or pork.
Fava beans
Fava beans are a nutrient-rich legume that are typically in season in May. They’re high in protein and fiber and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stews.
:: Make a fava bean and herb salad.
:: Puree fava beans with garlic and lemon juice for a dip.
:: Add fava beans to a pasta dish with olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
Fennel
Fennel is a flavorful and aromatic vegetable that’s in season in the spring. It’s high in fiber and vitamin C, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups.
:: Shave fennel and add it to a citrus salad.
:: Roast fennel with olive oil and lemon.
:: Make a fennel and potato gratin.
Green beans
Green beans are a nutritious and versatile vegetable that are typically in season in May. They’re high in fiber and vitamin C, and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries. Growing green beans in succession is a great way to have a continuous harvest.
:: Make a green bean and almond salad.
:: Roast green beans with garlic and lemon.
:: Sauté green beans with bacon and onions.
Peas
Peas are a sweet and delicious legume that are in season in the spring. They’re high in fiber and protein, and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups.
:: Add peas to a risotto with Parmesan cheese.
:: Make a pea and mint soup.
:: Add peas to a pasta dish with cream sauce.
Radishes
Radishes are a crunchy and peppery root vegetable that are typically in season in the spring. They’re high in fiber and vitamin C, and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches.
:: Slice radishes and add them to a taco.
:: Make a radish and feta salad.
:: Add sliced radishes to a sandwich.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb is a tart and tangy vegetable that’s in season in the spring, making May a great time to enjoy it. It’s high in fiber and vitamin C, and can be used in a variety of desserts, from pies to crisps.
:: Make a rhubarb and strawberry crisp.
:: Cook rhubarb with sugar and serve over ice cream.
:: Make a rhubarb and ginger syrup for cocktails.
Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that’s in season in the spring. It’s high in fiber and vitamin C, and can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, from salads to smoothies.
:: Add spinach to a smoothie with banana and almond milk.
:: Make a spinach and feta quiche.
:: Sauté spinach with garlic and olive oil as a side dish.
Strawberries
Strawberries are a sweet and delicious fruit that are typically in season in May in some regions. They’re high in vitamin C and antioxidants, and can be eaten raw or used in a variety of desserts, from shortcakes to tarts.
:: Try making your own strawberry jam
:: Make a strawberry shortcake with whipped cream.
:: Add sliced strawberries to a spinach salad.
:: Make a strawberry and balsamic vinegar glaze for chicken or pork.
These fresh fruits and vegetables are in season in May and make a great addition to your diet, while helping to preserve your budget. What are your favorite fruits and veggies in season in May?
