An A to Z guide to choosing, storing, preparing, and cooking fresh produce and recipe ingredients.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Mangoes
Rich in vitamins A, C, and D, mangoes are sweet, fragrant, large-pitted tropical fruits commonly used in Latin American, Asian, and Indian cuisine.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Ramps
A member of the onion family, ramps, or wild leeks, have a pungent garlic-onion flavor. This vitamin C-rich allium inspires spring festivals in Appalachian states and sells out quickly at urban farmers’ markets.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Sugar Snap Peas
Crisp, sweet sugar snap peas are eaten pod and all. Like all legumes, they’re a good source of protein.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Asparagus
Adults await the arrival of asparagus each spring almost as eagerly as their kids await the Easter Bunny. Besides being delicious, asparagus is an especially good source of folate.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Snow Peas
Flat, thin snow peas are harvested before the peas inside the pod develop, so they’re tender enough to eat pod and all.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Spinach
A good source of vitamins A and C, spinach is a versatile vegetable that’s great raw or cooked.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Pineapples
The English named the exceedingly juicy, sweet-tart pineapple for its resemblance to a pinecone. A favorite tropical fruit, it’s grown primarily in Hawaii.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Horseradish
The spicy hot 6- to 12-inch root of the horseradish plant is used in sauces accompanying meat dishes. Prepared horseradish, which has been chopped and steeped in vinegar (white) or beet juice (red), provides the kick in Bloody Marys and condiments like cocktail sauce.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Grapefruit
A classic accompaniment to Sunday brunch, grapefruit probably got its name because of the way it grows: in giant, grapelike bunches. It’s packed with vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, but those taking certain medications (for high blood pressure, cholesterol, anxiety, to name a few) should beware, as grapefruit can interact dangerously with the drugs.
WHAT'S IN SEASON
Sunchokes (Jerusalem Artichokes)
Sunchokes, also known as Jerusalem artichokes, have a crisp, clean flavor reminiscent of water chestnuts. This native North American tuber is a member of the sunflower family and looks like a cross between gingerroot and a potato.
Find out what's in season in your area right now, then locate a farmers' market near you.
