Purchasing seasonal foods provides a variety of advantages, such as enjoying ingredients at their freshest, saving money, supporting local farmers, and minimizing environmental impact. Here’s a glimpse at some delicious foods that are in season this December.
Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a versatile and nutritious vegetable belonging to the Brassica family, which includes broccoli, cabbage, and kale. It has a bulbous stem, usually green or purple, with long leafy stems extending from the top. Kohlrabi tastes similar to broccoli stems or a mild radish, with a slight crunch. Kohlrabi is a cool-weather vegetable that tends to be sweeter when grown in fall, early winter season.
Pomegranates
Pomegranates are a delicious and nutrient-rich fruit known for their vibrant red seeds, called arils, which are both juicy and slightly tart. They’ve been enjoyed for centuries for their unique flavor and health benefits. Pomegranates are typically in season during the fall and early winter, making them a popular fruit for holiday dishes!
Persimmons
Persimmons are a delightful winter fruit known for their vibrant color, honey-like sweetness, and versatility. There peak season is late fall through winter, typically October to December.
Chestnuts
Chestnuts are a beloved seasonal food, especially during the winter months, often associated with holiday traditions and cozy gatherings. These nutrient-rich nuts are unique among tree nuts because of their soft texture and slightly sweet flavor when cooked. Chestnuts are harvested in the fall (September-November) and are widely available fresh through December and January.
Delicata Squash
Delicata squash is a delicious, easy-to-prepare winter squash known for its sweet, nutty flavor and edible skin. It’s peak season is ate summer through early winter, typically August to December.
Chard
Chard, also known as Swiss chard, is a leafy green vegetable closely related to beets and spinach. It’s well-loved for its vibrant, colorful stems and dark green leaves. It’s highly nutritious and can be used in a variety of savory dishes. Swiss chard is a cool-weather vegetable.
Beets
Beets are a winter staple that bring color and nutrition to your plate. They’re rich in nitrates, which help improve blood flow and support brain and heart health. Their earthy sweetness shines in everything from roasted sides to soups and salads. Beets are harvested in late fall and store beautifully through the winter months.
Citrus (Oranges, Grapefruit & Clementines)
Citrus fruits are at their peak during the winter, offering a bright burst of flavor and a major boost of vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids that help strengthen immunity and reduce inflammation. They’re the perfect way to add freshness and energy to darker, colder months.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts thrive in cold weather — in fact, a touch of frost makes them even sweeter. These cruciferous veggies are packed with vitamin K, folate, and fiber, supporting brain health and digestion. Roast them until crisp or sauté with balsamic glaze for an easy, seasonal side.
