Overview: Dive into our Seasonal Produce Guide and discover what’s fresh this July! From juicy berries to crisp veggies, we’ve got the scoop on the best fruits and vegetables at their peak. Let’s celebrate the blessings of the season together!
Can you believe it’s already July? The warm sun is shining, the days are long, and the local farmers’ markets are bursting with a vibrant array of fresh, seasonal produce. July is one of the best months to enjoy the bounty of nature, and whether you’re a seasoned chef or just love to experiment in the kitchen, there’s something for everyone.
So, grab your shopping bags, and let’s dive into the delightful world of July’s freshest fruits and veggies!
Fruits to Savor
Berries Galore: July is prime time for berries. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are all at their peak this month. These juicy, sweet treats are perfect for snacking, baking, or tossing into salads. Try making a mixed berry pie or a refreshing berry smoothie to cool down on those hot summer days.
Stone Fruits: Peaches, plums, nectarines, and cherries are in abundance. These fruits are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Grill them for a smoky, sweet addition to your barbecue, or enjoy them fresh for a healthy, satisfying snack. A classic peach cobbler or cherry tart can also be the star of your summer dessert table.
Watermelon: Is there anything more quintessentially summer than a slice of watermelon? This hydrating fruit is perfect for picnics and beach days. For a fun twist, try making watermelon salads with feta and mint or blending it into a refreshing summer cocktail.
Melons : Melons are a summer staple, offering sweet, refreshing escapes from the heat. Varieties like cantaloupe and honeydew peak in July, providing juicy treats perfect for snacking or fruit salads.Try melon balls on skewers for a colorful, fun presentation.
Honeydew : Honeydew, with its delicate sweetness, is the epitome of summer refreshment. Its pale green flesh is incredibly hydrating, perfect for hot July days. Blend honeydew into a smoothie, mix with other fruits for a vibrant salad, or wrap slices in prosciutto for a sophisticated appetizer. You can also freeze honeydew cubes as ice cubes to add flavor and elegance to drinks.
Figs : Figs, peaking in July, offer a unique sweetness and texture. Enjoy them fresh, paired with cheese and nuts, or added to salads and tarts. For a decadent treat, stuff figs with goat cheese, drizzle with honey, and broil until caramelized.
Mangoes: Mangoes are a tropical delight perfect for July. Their juicy, sweet flesh brightens up any meal, whether sliced into salads, blended into smoothies, or as a yogurt topping. Mangoes pair wonderfully with spicy dishes, making them ideal for salsas. For a refreshing treat, freeze mango chunks for a creamy sorbet or grill slices to enhance their natural sweetness.
Papayas : Papayas bring a taste of the tropics with their sweet, musky flavor and vibrant orange flesh. Perfect for fruit salads, smoothies, or fresh with a squeeze of lime, papayas also aid digestion. Try a spicy papaya salad with lime and chili, or enjoy it as a refreshing snack on its own.
Veggies to Relish
Corn on the Cob: Nothing says summer like fresh corn on the cob. Whether you boil, grill, or roast it, corn is a staple of July barbecues. Slather it with butter, sprinkle some chili powder and lime, or simply enjoy it with a pinch of salt.
Tomatoes: July tomatoes are bursting with flavor and are perfect for salads, sauces, and sandwiches. Heirloom varieties are particularly delicious and can add a splash of color to your dishes. Try a classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and basil, or roast them for a rich tomato sauce.
Zucchini and Summer Squash: These versatile veggies are at their peak. Grill them, roast them, or spiralize them into “zoodles” for a low-carb pasta alternative. Zucchini bread and stuffed squash are also fantastic ways to enjoy these summer staples.
Bell Peppers: Bell peppers are at their sweetest and most colorful in July. Enjoy them raw in salads, stuffed with a savory filling, or roasted to bring out their natural sweetness. They’re also great for grilling, adding a smoky flavor to your summer dishes. Try them in fajitas, stir-fries, or simply as a crunchy snack with hummus.
Eggplant: Eggplant is in its prime, offering a meaty texture perfect for grilling, roasting, or baking. Make a classic ratatouille, baba ganoush, or eggplant Parmesan. Grilled eggplant slices with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs make a fantastic addition to any summer meal.
Greens to Enjoy
Lettuce and Spinach: Crisp, fresh greens are perfect for light summer salads. Mix and match different varieties to create your perfect salad bowl. Add some berries, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
Cucumbers: Cool and crunchy, cucumbers are perfect for hydrating snacks and salads. Slice them into water for a refreshing drink or make a creamy cucumber salad with dill and yogurt.
Green Beans: Green beans are tender and flavorful in July. Steam them, sauté them with garlic and almonds, or blanch and add to salads. For a delicious side dish, try roasting green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. They also make a great addition to summer casseroles and stir-fries.
Herbs to Elevate Your Dishes
Basil: This fragrant herb is perfect for pestos, salads, and as a finishing touch to many dishes. Basil loves the summer sun and adds a burst of freshness to everything it touches.
Mint: Mint is not just for mojitos! Add it to salads, desserts, or even savory dishes for a refreshing twist. Mint is also great for cooling down during the hot summer months.
Tips for Shopping Seasonal Produce
Visit Local Farmers’ Markets: These are the best places to find the freshest, in-season produce. Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers and your community.
Look for Vibrant Colors: Fresh produce should be bright and vibrant. Dull colors can indicate that the fruit or vegetable is past its prime.
Ask for Tasting Samples: Many markets offer samples, so don’t be shy about trying before you buy.
Plan Your Meals Around What’s Fresh: Let the produce you find inspire your meals. This not only ensures you’re eating the freshest food but also adds variety to your diet.
In Summary
As we enjoy the abundance of July’s seasonal produce, let’s take a moment to appreciate the incredible flavors and nutrition these fresh fruits and veggies bring to our tables. When you embrace the vibrant tastes of summer, it does not only delight our palates but also connects us to the rhythm of nature.
Whether you’re making a berry-studded dessert, grilling juicy stone fruits, or tossing a crisp salad, savor every bite.
For the freshest produce and everything you need to create delicious summer meals, visit Redlands Ranch Market. Here’s to enjoying all the delicious moments that July has to offer!