Shopping for seasonal produce can be a game changer for your meal prep. Not only does it often mean fresher, tastier ingredients, but it can also save you money and reduce your environmental impact. Here are three practical examples of seasonal produce shopping tips to help you make the most of your grocery trips!
When you understand what fruits and vegetables are in season, you can plan your meals around them. This ensures that you get the best flavor and nutrition, while also saving money since seasonal produce is often less expensive.
For example, in the summer months, you might find tomatoes, zucchini, and berries at their peak. Plan a meal prep week where you make a refreshing tomato and zucchini pasta dish, paired with a berry smoothie for breakfast.
By knowing what ingredients are in season, you can create delicious meals that highlight the best flavors of the season.
Notes: Check local farmers’ markets or browse seasonal produce charts online to stay updated on what’s available in your area.
If you come across a great deal on seasonal produce, consider buying in bulk and freezing some of it for later use. This is especially helpful for fruits that you can use in smoothies or baked goods and vegetables that you can add to soups or stir-fries.
For instance, if you find a sale on strawberries in late spring, buy a few extra pints. Wash, hull, and slice them before laying them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy smoothies or desserts throughout the year without worrying about spoilage.
Notes: Make sure to label your freezer bags with the date and type of produce for easy identification later.
Local farmers’ markets are a fantastic resource for seasonal produce. Not only can you find fresh fruits and vegetables, but you often have the opportunity to talk directly to the growers and learn about their practices.
For a meal prep example, visit your local farmers’ market on a Saturday morning. You might find seasonal items like fresh corn, peppers, and cucumbers. You can buy these vegetables to create a vibrant summer salad for your meal prep. Toss together the chopped veggies with a simple vinaigrette and store them in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Notes: Shopping at farmers’ markets can also help you discover unique varieties of produce that you might not find in grocery stores, adding excitement to your meal prep!
With these examples of seasonal produce shopping tips for meal prep, you can elevate your cooking and make the most of what nature has to offer throughout the year.