In my book, July is a season in itself. It stays light until 9 PM. The air always smells like the grill, and you are at war with your thermostat. You are itching to watch The Sandlot and completely craving watermelon and s'mores. It is the crux of summer, fully untouched by August's task list. July is enjoyment.
So to start the first day of the month off right, you have a TON of options for selecting produce that is truly in season. Who cares about seasonal produce? Your mouth, your wallet, and your body.
Seasonal produce tastes better because it is picked at the best time possible, during its peak. Produce that is harvested at its peak also has more nutrients because it has had a chance to grow to full maturity. It is often less expensive because farmers may have harvested more than will sell before spoilage.
Here's what to look for in the Missouri area:
July Fruit: apples, apricots, blackberries, cherries, cantaloupe, grapes, nectarines, peaches, plums, pears, raspberries, strawberries, and watermelon.
July Veggies: green beans, beets, broccoli, tomatoes, cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, eggplant, garlic, okra, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, sweet corn, yellow squash, peas, and potatoes.
More soon on recipe ideas for all of these fresh friends. Until then, I trust your creativity.
(Above: healthy peas. The less flat, the better! Below: Love those family archives. Grab your friends and husk that corn.)
