Welcome to the bountiful month of June, where nature unveils a vibrant tapestry of seasonal produce. As spring gracefully transitions into summer, the earth’s generous offerings beckon us to explore the rich flavors and colors that adorn our plates. June brings forth a cornucopia of delectable fruits and vegetables, nurtured by the sun’s warmth and gentle rains. From succulent berries bursting with sweetness to crisp greens and fragrant herbs, the season’s harvest inspires culinary creativity and nourishes our bodies with its wholesome goodness. Join us on a delightful journey through June’s abundant produce, as we savor the freshness and embrace the culinary possibilities that this remarkable time of year brings.
Avacado
While Mexican avocados are available year-round in stores, it’s the perfect time to indulge in the seasonal delight of California avocados. June marks the peak of their harvest, adding a local and fresh touch to your meals. While both varieties offer their own unique flavors and textures, the arrival of California avocados brings a sense of regional pride and an opportunity to enjoy the bounty of this particular season. So, whether you’re a fan of the year-round Mexican avocados or eager to relish the taste of California’s own, now is the time to savor these creamy and nutritious fruits at their very best.
Beets
Beets, with their tremendous earthy essence, present a versatile culinary experience, as they can be enjoyed in various forms. Whether consumed fresh, cooked, or roasted, their distinct flavors and vibrant colors add a unique touch to any dish. Among the different varieties, such as the golden beets, you’ll discover a delightful sweetness that enhances their appeal. From vibrant salads to hearty roasted creations, the versatility of beets allows for a range of culinary possibilities. Embrace the inherent sweetness and earthiness of beets as you explore the multitude of ways to incorporate these nutritious gems into your culinary repertoire.
Blueberries
The eagerly awaited arrival of blueberries is finally here! These plump little berries not only tantalize our taste buds but also offer a powerful dose of antioxidants. When selecting blueberries, opt for organic options whenever possible to minimize exposure to pesticides. Their natural sweetness harmonizes wonderfully with the tangy essence of lemon, both in juice and zest form. Whether incorporated into delectable desserts, baked goods, or refreshing salads, blueberries elevate any culinary creation with their vibrant flavors. Indulge in the delightful versatility of blueberries and let your culinary imagination soar with these delightful gems.
Cherries
Get ready to welcome the arrival of sweet, crimson cherries in June! These delightful fruits are a joy to snack on, with their refreshing sweetness. However, if you’re looking to enhance their inherent sweetness even further, consider roasting them. Roasting cherries unlocks a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Whether roasted or enjoyed fresh, cherries pair exceptionally well with the tangy notes of balsamic vinegar. While cherry pie remains an American favorite, cherries also make a fantastic addition to salads, cocktails, and a variety of desserts. Embrace the versatility of cherries and let their vibrant taste elevate your culinary creations to new heights.
Cucumbers
Add a touch of freshness to your raw salads with the invigorating crunch of crisp cucumber. Not only does it bring a delightful texture, but its abundance of vitamins and hydrating properties also make it a valuable ingredient for juicing. For a revitalizing twist, peel, muddle, and strain cucumber to create a refreshing cocktail that will tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in the sheer pleasure of cucumber water by simply soaking cucumber slices along with zesty lemon in a pitcher of water. This infused concoction offers a treat for your senses and a delightful way to stay hydrated. Discover the versatility of cucumber as it brings a cool and rejuvenating essence to your culinary adventures.
Green Beans
Often overlooked, green beans are a culinary gem that effortlessly complements a wide range of flavors. Their mild yet distinctive taste pairs splendidly with an array of ingredients. From the satisfying crunch of almonds to the fragrant aroma of basil, green beans harmonize effortlessly with these companions. Whether lightly sautéed with butter, sprinkled with Parmesan, drizzled with olive oil, combined with onions and parsley, or incorporated into potato and shallot dishes, green beans add a refreshing touch. Their versatility extends even further when paired with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes and the subtle acidity of vinegar. Don’t underestimate the humble green bean, as it is a versatile canvas for culinary exploration and can elevate a variety of dishes to new levels of deliciousness.
Herbs
The culinary world knows the transformative power of fresh herbs, as they have the ability to elevate any dish to new heights. While readily available year-round at stores, now presents an opportune moment to consider planting your very own herb garden. Embrace the flavors of the season by cultivating herbs such as chervil, chives, dill, green onions, mint, scallions, sorrel, and thyme, which are all coming into their prime. These herbs offer a delightful range of aromas and tastes, adding a burst of freshness and complexity to your culinary creations. With a herb garden at your fingertips, you can infuse your dishes with the vibrant essence of these seasonal herbs, ensuring a constant supply of fragrant delights in your kitchen.
Kale
Kale, the beloved leafy green, holds a special place in our hearts for its exceptional health benefits and incredible flavor potential. With the right preparation, kale can be transformed into a delightful addition to various dishes. For stir-fries or a side of greens, simply chop kale and sauté it in olive oil with a hint of garlic. To make a refreshing salad, massage the kale with a sprinkle of salt, allowing it to tenderize and develop its flavors. For a crunchy snack, toss roughly chopped kale with a drizzle of olive oil and roast it into delectable kale chips. Additionally, you can incorporate kale into your diet by blending it into smoothies or juicing it, allowing its nutrient-packed goodness to nourish your body. Explore the versatility of kale and let its vibrant presence enrich your culinary creations and overall well-being.
Leeks
Leeks, part of the same family as onions and garlic, offer a subtle and mildly oniony flavor. These unique vegetables grow in tightly bundled “leaf sheaths,” resembling celery stalks. However, it’s important to note that the dark green parts of leeks can be quite tough and are typically not ideal for cooking. Additionally, cleaning leeks can be a bit challenging as dirt tends to accumulate between the layers of sheaths. Despite these considerations, the tender and flavorful white and light green portions of leeks make them a versatile ingredient worth exploring in various dishes.
Mango
Mangos, often referred to as tropical peaches, are truly remarkable fruits. Their lusciousness and vibrant flavors make them a delightful treat. While they may appear a bit intimidating to handle initially, the process is simpler than it seems. To enjoy a mango, start by slicing off one-third of each side lengthwise, starting from the top and working your way down. This will give you two large mango cheeks. Next, you can dice the mango flesh, similar to how you would handle an avocado. By following these steps, you’ll unlock the succulent goodness of mangos and savor their tropical essence.
Peas
Peas, with their natural sweetness, truly shine with just a touch of heat. They require minimal embellishments to enhance their flavors. A simple combination of butter and salt is often enough to complement their delicate taste, but you can also experiment with additional ingredients like garlic or mint for added depth. In addition to regular peas, you may also come across sugar snap peas during this time. These crisp and succulent varieties offer a delightful snap when bitten into. Enjoy the delightful sweetness of peas, either as a standalone side dish or incorporated into various recipes, and savor their fresh, vibrant flavors.
Radishes
Raw, diced radishes bring a delightful spicy crunch to salads and add a perfect touch as a garnish for fresh Mexican dishes. Personally, I find radishes to be a preferable alternative to raw red onions, as the latter can overpower other ingredients. For a simple and delicious appetizer, serving whole raw radishes with butter and a sprinkle of flaky salt is an absolute delight. Additionally, pickled radishes offer a tangy twist that enhances their flavors. However, the jury is still out on roasted radishes, as their taste and texture can vary. Whether enjoyed raw, pickled, or explored in new culinary experiments, radishes provide a unique and zesty element to your meals.
Strawberries
It’s strawberry season! Strawberries happen to be one of my absolute favorite fruits, and they’re delightful to enjoy as they are. Their sweet juiciness adds a burst of flavor to salads, making them a wonderful addition. But have you ever considered trying strawberries on pizza? If not, you’ve been missing out on a truly delightful combination! The marriage of savory and sweet flavors that strawberries bring to a pizza is a surprising and delicious experience worth exploring. So, embrace the arrival of strawberries and let your culinary creativity soar by incorporating them into both traditional and unexpected recipes.
You can see more seasonal produce here!
Love, Bee xx
Thank you for highlighting these healthy food options for June. You have some interesting recipe suggestions that are worth a try.