This year, one of my goals is to cut down on grocery expenses by buying in-season produce. Since I’m doing the research anyway, I thought I would share it with you guys! Buying in season is more important than ever. It keeps grocery costs down and ensures food will supply the most nutrients.
For this month, be sure to also check out the April Produce Guide as well. Some of the produce for April will still be in season through May or even June. In fact, as it reaches the end of its growing season, it may be priced even lower than it was at its peak as they try to sell the surplus!
Of course, what produce is in season can vary by region, so I focused on the Southwest in my research. If you are on the east coast, it should still apply, but some things vary. I also included recipes you can make with this month’s produce, so hopefully, it helps inspire your weekly menu this month!
Enjoy some fresh spring produce with some vibrant, gorgeous looking fruits and vegetables! I’ve included some of my top favorite produce items for May, as well as recipes for each one, so you can be inspired to eat healthfully this month.
Blackberries
Summer is just around the corner, which means that fresh berries are starting to come in season! From farmer’s markets to grocery stores, you’ll start to see your favorite berry pop up more frequently. In the southwest, blackberries are starting to make their yearly comeback and these little black gems are looking quite delicious!
Not only are they easy to eat, but they are packed full with 50% of the daily value of vitamin C, which can help shorten colds, heal wounds, and impact skin health. They can also help boost brain health, support oral health, and reduce cholesterol. So what are you waiting for? Stock up on blackberries while they’re in season! And, don’t forget–you can always freeze them for later!
Check out some of my favorite recipes from dietitians featuring blackberries:
- Blackberry Sage Breakfast Sausage from The Real Food RDs
- Blackberry Ricotta Pita from The Domestic Dietitian
- Berry Quinoa Power Bowl from The Plant-Powered Dietitian
Onions
I don’t know about you, but onions are a staple in my kitchen! I use them nearly every day. They’re great in soups, skillets, entrees, or eggs! Plus, I love how versatile they are; from raw to fried to cooked, you can’t go wrong with this vegetable.
Not only do they taste good, but they are also full of health benefits! Onions are a great source of potassium and antioxidants, and they have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties, as well as boost bone density. Win-win!
Check out some of my favorite recipes featuring onions:
Click Here For More Onion Recipes >>
Potatoes
I LOVE a good potato! And I just bought an air fryer so it’s going down this summer. Besides, potatoes are versatile and delicious, which means that I use this (very affordable) root vegetable a lot in my kitchen. From breakfast hashes to dinner entrees, I am always on the lookout for ways to use potatoes.
Plus, they can store for a long time, so you can stock up on these without having them go bad! Regarding nutrition, they’re filled with fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6–all of which support heart health. Potatoes can also improve digestive health and aid with blood sugar control. So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands on some potatoes while they’re in season!
Check out some of my favorite recipes featuring potatoes:
Click Here For More Potato Recipes >>
Summer Squash
Squash is such a fun veggie to have on hand. You can really do a lot with it, and it adds such a nice flavor to almost any entree. Now that summer is almost here, summer squash are starting to make more of an appearance. In case you didn’t know, this variety of squash differs from winter squash (i.e. acorn, butternut, and delicata squash) because summer squash (i.e. zucchini, yellow squash, and pattypan squash) have a more tender skin and don’t store as long.
Summer squash contain vitamin C as well as beta-carotene, folate, and fiber. These nutrients are an important tool for preventing cancer, heart disease, and inflammatory diseases. With so much to offer, be sure to grab some summer squash while they’re in season!
Check out some of my favorite recipes (both from me and other dietitians) featuring summer squash:
- Bacon Zucchini Quiche
- Vegan Curry Summer Squash Soup from Dietitian Debbie
- Roasted Summer Squash and Quinoa Salad from Delish Knowledge
Click Here For More Summer Squash Recipes >>
Tomatoes
I love a good tomato! I’m so happy that tomato season is almost here, because I’m obsessed with these bright little red gems. I’m not picky–cherry, heirloom, or Roma, I love them all! They’re easy to cook with, and they also make a great addition to your snack plate.
Plus, they’re heart-healthy; tomatoes contain the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. They’re also a great source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K. So, go ahead and enjoy tomatoes while they’re in season; your taste buds (and your heart) will thank you!
Check out some of my favorite recipes featuring tomatoes:
- One Pan Arugula Pesto Chicken and Tomatoes
- Spinach and Tomato Goat Cheese Quiche
- Skinny Tomato Zucchini Turkey Sausage Frittata
Click Here For More Tomato Recipes >>
[…] this month, be sure to also check out the May Produce Guide as well. Some of the produce for May will still be in season through June or even July. In fact, as […]