Winter may not seem like the peak time for fresh produce, but January offers a surprising bounty of delicious fruits and vegetables. Eating seasonally isn’t just good for your health—it’s also great for the environment and your wallet. Seasonal produce is often fresher, more flavorful, and packed with nutrients, as it’s harvested at its peak. Let’s explore what’s in season this winter in Gretna, Nebraska!
Citrus fruits 🍊
Winter is citrus season! Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes and tangerines are at their best in January. These fruits are not only vibrant and juicy, but are also loaded with vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system during the colder months. Try incorporating them into your meals with fresh orange slices in a salad, a squeeze of lemon over roasted vegetables, or a warming grapefruit glaze for chicken.
Seasonal fruits beyond citrus 🍐
While citrus steals the show, don’t overlook other winter fruits like pears and pomegranates. Pears add natural sweetness to desserts, salads and cheese boards, while pomegranates provide a pop of color and tangy flavor to just about anything.
Root vegetables 🥕
Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, beets and turnips thrive in the cold. Their natural sweetness intensifies when roasted, making them perfect for hearty winter dishes. Add them to soups, stews, or casseroles, or enjoy them roasted with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for a simple side dish.
Winter greens 🥬
Dark leafy greens like kale, collard greens, and Swiss chard are in abundance this time of year. These greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, and their slightly bitter flavor pairs beautifully with garlic, lemon or a hint of red pepper flakes. Sauté them as a side dish, blend them into smoothies, or add them to soups for an extra nutritional boost.
Brassicas 🥦
The Brassica family shines in winter. Think cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli. These hearty, versatile vegetables are excellent sources of fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. Roast brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, whip up a creamy cauliflower soup or toss shredded cabbage into a slaw for tacos.
Squash 🍠
Winter squash varieties like butternut, acorn and spaghetti squash are in season in January. Their natural sweetness makes them ideal for roasting, pureeing into soups, or even using as a healthier alternative to pasta. Remember to roast the seeds for a crunchy snack!
Get to cooking in Gretna, Nebraska
As you plan your meals this winter, take advantage of what’s in season. Whether it’s a citrusy salad, a warming root vegetable stew, or a hearty kale side dish, January produce offers endless possibilities for delicious and wholesome meals!
