Seasonal fruits and vegetables in the United States: what to eat in summer
When moving to the United States or spending several weeks there, it’s easy to keep buying the same products all year round. However, just like in France, eating seasonal fruits and vegetables allows you to enjoy better flavors, fresher produce, and often lower prices.
Summer is a particularly abundant season in many American regions. Farmers markets are overflowing with colors and flavors. Here are the main fruits and vegetables to prioritize during the summer season in the United States.
Summer’s star fruits
Watermelons
It’s impossible to imagine an American summer without a good slice of watermelon. Very refreshing thanks to its high water content, it is everywhere during picnics, barbecues, and Fourth of July celebrations.
Peaches
The Southern states, especially Georgia, are famous for their delicious peaches. Juicy and sweet, they can be enjoyed on their own or used in pies, salads, or smoothies.
Red berries
Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries are must-haves in summer in the United States. Delicious and refreshing, these red berries are perfect for enjoying on their own, in a fruit salad, or in summer desserts.
Nectarines
Often less well known than peaches, nectarines nevertheless offer a firm, fragrant flesh that is much appreciated during the peak of summer heat.
Cherries
Summer is the best time to enjoy American cherries, especially those produced in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Michigan.
Vegetables to Put in Your Basket
Sweet corn
Corn is a staple of summer in the United States. Served grilled at barbecues, in salads, or simply with a bit of butter, it accompanies many summer meals.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes reach full ripeness in the summer. This is the perfect time to prepare fresh salads, bruschettas, or homemade sauces.
Cucumbers
Very refreshing, cucumbers are perfect for hot days. They can be enjoyed in salads, in sandwiches, or in homemade flavored water.
Bell peppers
Red, yellow, or green, bell peppers are plentiful in the summer. They add color and flavor to grilled dishes, salads, and Mediterranean meals.
Green beans
Harvested throughout the summer, green beans are appreciated for their crunchiness and their simplicity of preparation.
Why choose seasonal produce?
Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables offers several advantages:
- Fresher, more flavorful produce.
- Better nutritional quality.
- Lower environmental impact thanks to shorter transportation distances.
- Often more affordable prices during harvest season.
Whether you are an expat in the United States or just visiting for the summer, enjoying seasonal fruits and vegetables is a great way to discover local flavors while adopting a healthier and more responsible diet.