July bursts with sunshine and, more importantly, an abundance of fresh, flavorful produce! This guide unveils the stars of the season, providing you with a cheat sheet on what to buy, and even better, how to use it. Get ready to elevate your summer cooking with the freshest ingredients!
The July Produce All-Stars:
- Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are at their peak. Their sweetness is unmatched! Uses: Eat them fresh, add to smoothies, bake into pies and cobblers, or make delicious jams.
- Tomatoes: Juicy, vibrant tomatoes are the quintessential summer staple. Look for heirloom varieties for extra flavor. Uses: Caprese salad, BLTs, gazpacho, sauces, and salsas.
- Corn: Sweet corn on the cob is a must-have. Grilled, boiled, or roasted, it’s a summer favorite. Uses: Corn on the cob, corn salads, corn chowder, and as a component of various dishes.
- Peppers: Bell peppers of all colors are in season, along with hotter varieties like jalapeños and serranos. Uses: Stuffed peppers, stir-fries, salads, roasted peppers for dips.
- Zucchini & Summer Squash: These versatile veggies are prolific in July. Uses: Grilled zucchini, zucchini bread, spiralized noodles, and in ratatouille.
- Cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing cucumbers are perfect for hot days. Uses: Salads, pickles, tzatziki sauce, and infused water.
- Stone Fruits: Peaches, plums, nectarines, and apricots are hitting their stride. Uses: Eat them fresh, make pies, jams, grilled, or use them in salads.
- Green Beans: Tender and delicious green beans are ready for harvest. Uses: Sautéed with garlic, in salads, steamed and seasoned, or included in casseroles.
- Melons: Watermelons, cantaloupe, and honeydew melons are wonderfully refreshing. Uses: Enjoy plain, add to salads, blend into smoothies, or create fruit skewers.
Tips for Buying the Best Produce:
- Farmers’ Markets: Visiting your local farmers’ market is the best way to find the freshest, in-season produce.
- Look for Color and Smell: Ripe produce will have vibrant colors and a pleasant aroma.
- Feel the Weight: Heavier produce often indicates a higher water content and more flavor.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the vendor about the best ways to prepare the produce.
July Recipe Ideas:
- Grilled Corn Salad with Tomatoes and Avocado: A light, refreshing salad highlighting the season’s best.
- Peach and Berry Cobbler: A comforting dessert with the sweetest fruits of summer.
- Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze: Simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor.
- Zucchini Noodles with Pesto: A healthy and delicious way to enjoy zucchini.
Embrace the flavors of July! By focusing on in-season produce, you’ll enjoy the best taste and get the most nutritional value for your money. Happy cooking!