In-Season: Produce

I don't know about you, but for me, nothing says Spring like the brightly colored produce that start popping up in stores and at the Farmer's Market. Particularly the ranging variety of greens, a sign that lighter meals and warmer weather are in bloom. Of course, where you live is going to play a role in the fresh, local produce you find, but for the most part, these things can be found in the next several weeks and months.

These are some of my favorites!

Artichokes~ A favorite of my husband, who will eat them in pasta, dip and any other way you can imagine them! And a bonus, they are a good source of vitamin C, folate, magnesium and dietary fiber, while containing no fat!


Avocado~ Come on, we're from California, of course we love avocado...on pretty much anything! And did you know they pack 20 essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, Vitamin E, B-vitamins and folic acid? Don't be fooled by their high fat content, as it is mostly unsaturated (the good kind!).

Strawberries~ I am absolutely giddy these are beginning to show their rosy little faces and will continue to grace us with their presence through late-summer! Packed with Vitamin C (even higher than some citrus fruit), folic acid, potassium and dietary fiber, strawberries are a fantastic sweet treat!


Asparugas~ my favorite way to enjoy asparugas is grilled with a squeeze of lemon juice. Of course I love that I can eat a lot because it is also low in calories, contains no cholesterol and is very low in sodium.


Apricots~ This small, delicate fruit is extremely versatile and deliciously tangy when ripe (closer to early May). In addition, they are one of the best sources of beta-carotene.

To find out what's fresh in your area check out NRDC's Eat Local produce finder.