With Spring’s return and Summer close behind, the world- and our tables – begin to bloom. Farmer’s markets and grocers are bustling with overflowing tote bags filled to the brim with crisp greens and just-picked berries. Elsewhere, zesty, juicy  citrus fruits hang low on warm, sun-drenched branches, ready to be plucked. At Stanford’s, each dish in our seasonal menu is inspired by what’s fresh right now, highlighting ingredients that reflect the brightness, color, and taste of the moment. In this seasonal eating guide, we’ll explore how seasonal eating works, which fruits and vegetables are in season now, and how to track these changes by each month of the year. 

What is Food Seasonality? The Benefits of Seasonal Eating

 

Food seasonality means enjoying fruits and vegetables in season when they’re naturally when their flavor, nutritional value, and freshness are at their peak. But eating seasonally doesn’t just taste better, it also: 

• Can be a more cost-effective option when seasonal produce and crops are plentiful in supply
• Keeps your meals in sync with the body’s natural cravings ( leafy greens in spring, hydrating fruits in summer, dense gourds in autumn, hearty rooted vegetables in winter, etc.)
• Fresher meals at restaurants, as seasonal menus usually reflect what’s most available and flavorful right now

 

Use this seasonal produce calendar to see what is in season by month,  plan meals with our year-round and seasonal menu options, or create your own  with ingredients that taste their best.

 

Spring Fruits and Vegetables (March–May)

 

Fruits:

• Avocados
• Cherries
• Lemons
• Pineapple
• Rhubarb
• Strawberries

 

Vegetables:

• Asparagus
• Green beans
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Radishes
• Scallions
• Spring greens
• Peas
• Mushrooms

This spring fruit and vegetable selection will make any seasonal menu or eating guide complete with light sauteed options, fresh salads, and flavorful starters.

 

Meal Recommendation:
Strawberry Balsamic Salad — fresh strawberries, organic spring greens mix, and walnuts with balsamic vinaigrette

 Spring Burger — topped with pepper bacon, garlic aioli, rosemary peach compote, and pickled spring vegetables on a pretzel bun

 Lemon Cream Cake — bright lemon cream filling and blueberry compote between yellow cake layers, perfect for a spring finish

Summer Fruits and Vegetables (June–August)

 

Fruits:

• Apricots
• Blackberries
• Blueberries
• Grapes
• Nectarines
• Peaches
• Plums
• Watermelon

Vegetables:

• Bell Peppers
• Corn
• Cucumbers
• Eggplant
• Herbs
• Summer Squash
• Tomatoes
• Zucchini

These fruits and vegetables in season throughout the summer months are vibrant, juicy, and perfect for grilling, chilled plates, and are perfectly accented by fresh herbs.

 

Meal Recommendation:
Grilled Chicken Clubhouse — stacked with avocado, tomato, arugula, and pepper bacon on grilled bianco bread for a fresh, summer-ready bite

Knife & Fork Crab ‘n Artichoke Sandwich — sliced tomato, rock crab, and artichoke hearts layered on Italian herb focaccia

 

Fall Fruits and Vegetables (September–November)

 

Fruits:

• Apples
• Cranberries
• Figs
• Grapes
• Pears
• Persimmons
• Pomegranates
• Quinces

Vegetables:

• Beets
• Brussels Sprouts
• Butternut Squash
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Kale
• Pumpkin
• Sweet Potatoes

These fall ingredients are perfect for roasting, baking, and braising.

 

Meal Recommendation:

Crispy Brussels Sprouts — tossed in balsamic glaze and served with spicy and garlic aioli dipping sauces

Grilled Chicken Marsala — roasted mushrooms, caramelized onions, and creamy marsala wine sauce over garlic parmesan mashed potatoes with asparagus

Apple Crisp — served warm with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, and candied walnuts

 

Winter Fruits and Vegetables (December–February)

 

Fruits:

• Clementines
• Grapefruit
• Kiwifruit
• Lemons
• Limes
• Oranges
• Pomegranates
• Tangerines

Vegetables:

• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Celery Root
• Leeks
• Parsnips
• Potatoes
• Turnips

Winter fruits and vegetables in season are ideal for soups, stews, and citrus-accented dishes that bring warmth and comfort to the colder months.

Meal Recommendation:
Loaded Baked Potato — topped with cheddar, bacon, scallions, and sour cream Seasonal Brownie Sundae — served warm with vanilla ice cream and seasonal toppings

 

Food seasonality encourages you to plan meals around what is in season, resulting in experiencing better flavor, more nutrition when shopping for seasonal produce locally or dining out.At Stanford’s, we craft our seasonal menu using the freshest ingredients available so you can enjoy what is at its peak with every visit.

 

Bookmark this seasonal produce calendar for your kitchen or dining plans, and follow us for more monthly insights  like this one. When you are ready for a meal inspired by the season, visit your local Stanford’s and discover what is fresh now.