June Produce Guide 🫐🍉🥒

I absolutely adore shopping for produce in June! There's just something magical about seeing all the vibrant colors and knowing everything is at its peak freshness. For me, it's a huge part of summer cooking and enjoying delicious, healthy meals. This month, farmers' markets and grocery stores across the US are bursting with incredible choices, and I always feel so inspired by the abundance. When I think about June, I immediately picture juicy strawberries and plump blueberries – perfect for everything from breakfast parfaits to homemade pies. And don't even get me started on sweet, ripe cherries! They're such a treat, whether I'm snacking on them fresh or adding them to a dessert. I also love that blackberries start making their appearance, adding a tart counterpoint. On the vegetable side, June brings us crisp cucumbers and tender celery, fantastic for refreshing salads and snacks. I always grab asparagus early in the month if it's still available – a true spring-to-early-summer gem! Then there are those versatile summer squash varieties, like zucchini, perfect for grilling or sautéing. And who could forget the first truly ripe tomatoes? Nothing beats a fresh-picked tomato. Keep an eye out for sweet peaches and delicate apricots too; they truly signal summer. And of course, no June produce list is complete without refreshing watermelon – the ultimate summer hydrator! While this guide covers what's generally in season across the United States, I know many of you are curious about specific regions like Texas and North Carolina. The good news is that many of these June superstars are also thriving in those areas! In places like Texas, you can especially look forward to fantastic peaches, watermelons, and a variety of berries. North Carolina also boasts amazing blueberries, strawberries, and early tomatoes in June. It’s always best to check with your local farmer's market for the most precise regional availability, but this list gives you a great starting point for finding local gems. To make the most of your June haul, here are a few personal tips I've picked up over the years. When picking cucumbers or summer squash, look for firm, unblemished skin. For berries, check the bottom of the container for any signs of mold. As for keeping your produce fresh so it "can stay for some days," proper storage is key! Most berries do best washed right before eating and stored unwashed in the fridge. Tomatoes and peaches often prefer to ripen on the counter at room temperature for the best flavor, then moved to the fridge if you need them to last a little longer. For leafy greens and celery, a damp paper towel in a sealed bag in the crisper drawer works wonders. Many of these June delights are packed with vitamins! Those strawberries, blueberries, and tomatoes are fantastic sources of Vitamin C, great for boosting your immune system. Adding them to your daily diet is an easy and delicious way to get those essential nutrients. Enjoy exploring all the amazing flavors June has to offer!