It’s Juicy, Sweet, & Tart season!
It is my FAVORITE time of year when all the outdoor markets are in full swing and colors from natural foods are everywhere like a rainbow. Although the United States provides us with all sorts of fruits year-round, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction and sweetness of fruit that’s truly in season (and that time is now!!). As the country moves past peak spring and enters summer, these are some fruits you’ll definitely want to keep an eye out for. In-season fruit not only brings incredible sweetness, but also a variety of new textures and vibrant colors to our every day meals. Let these fruits shine for you this summer and don’t forget to look out for which restaurants are using these in-season ingredients to their advantage.
Most people probably already know this, but strawberries are thriving right now since May through July is their peak season. Get ready to enjoy sweet strawberry shortcakes, bright red colors in your yogurt bowls, or blended into refreshing fruit smoothies for these humid NYC days ahead. Even better, strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, so enjoy them knowing you’re also supporting your immune system!
I’m a huge fan of cherries, so whenever summertime rolls around, I make sure to get my fill. Loved for their sweet and tart flavors, cherries ripen from late May to early July (sadly, a short but sweet season). These ruby-red, sparkling fruits are packed with vitamin C and A, fiber, and antioxidants (did you know this can help reduce inflammation and support heart health?). Whether they’re fresh off the tree or baked into a cherry pie (anyone else drooling?), I’m determined to enjoy them all.
One core childhood memory of mine is biking out of my neighborhood in July to fields of blackberry bushes, collecting bundles in my basket (and mouth)! Like blueberries and raspberries (also in season now), blackberries naturally grow from May through August. They’re a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Gather a bunch this summer and bake them into a blackberry cobbler or enjoy them fresh with your little paw friends (dogs can enjoy them too, of course, in moderation).
Stone fruits are hard to find year-round, so they become fan favorites once the summer sun arrives. These include juicy, adorably round fruits like apricots, peaches, nectarines, and pluots (plum + apricot hybrids!). They’re sweet and juicy with a hint of tartness, perfect with vanilla ice cream or eaten fresh during a sunny picnic. While you’re soaking up some vitamin D, you can also get your vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidant intake with these plump little gems.
Honestly, I could go on and on about the fruits you need to enjoy this summer (pineapples, avocados, kiwis, papayas…), but let’s be real; THE fruit of the season is watermelon. It’s the ultimate summer treat: high in water content, juicy, sweet, and perfect for staying hydrated without even thinking about health (because it tastes like dessert!).
All in all, summer is an exciting and delicious time to take full advantage of seasonal produce and what nature offers!