Eating fresh, seasonal produce is not only good for our health but also for the environment. However, it can be challenging to find fresh, seasonal ingredients all year round. Here are some tips for how to eat fresh in every season:
- Shop at farmers’ markets: Farmers’ markets are a great place to find fresh, locally grown produce that is in season. You can talk to the farmers directly, learn about their farming practices, and get tips on how to prepare and store the produce.
- Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program: CSA programs allow you to buy a share of a local farm’s harvest and receive a box of fresh, seasonal produce each week. This is a great way to support local farmers and eat fresh, seasonal produce.
- Use frozen fruits and vegetables: Frozen fruits and vegetables are often picked at the peak of their ripeness and quickly frozen, which preserves their nutrients. They can be used in soups, stews, smoothies, and other dishes year-round.
- Preserve produce: Canning, pickling, and drying are great ways to preserve fresh produce so that it can be enjoyed year-round. You can make your own jams, pickles, and dried fruits and vegetables.
- Experiment with new recipes: Eating fresh, seasonal produce can inspire you to try new recipes and cooking techniques. Look for recipes that use seasonal ingredients and experiment with different flavor combinations.
By eating fresh, seasonal produce, we can support local farmers, reduce our carbon footprint, and improve our health. With a little creativity and planning, it’s possible to eat fresh in every season.
