December brings the crispness of winter and the promise of holiday cheer, but it also offers a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce. Eating seasonally not only enhances the flavor of your meals but also provides an abundance of nutrients to keep you feeling your best. Seasonal produce is often more affordable, fresher, and environmentally friendly compared to out-of-season options. Let’s dive into December’s seasonal produce and how to incorporate it into your meals this winter.
Why Eat Seasonal Produce?
Better Taste: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are harvested at their peak ripeness, ensuring maximum flavor and freshness.
Nutritional Benefits: Freshly harvested produce retains more nutrients, providing a healthier option for your meals.
Cost-Effective: In-season produce is often more abundant, which makes it more affordable at the grocery store or farmers' market.
Supports Local Farmers: Eating seasonal helps support local agriculture and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting out-of-season produce.
What’s in Season in December?
Fruits
Oranges, Clementines, and Grapefruit: Packed with vitamin C, these citrus fruits boost your immune system and brighten up winter days.
Pears: Naturally sweet and versatile, pears are perfect for snacking, baking, or adding to salads.
Pomegranates: Bursting with antioxidants and a tart sweetness, pomegranate seeds make a vibrant addition to many dishes.
Vegetables
Brussels Sprouts: These tiny, nutrient-dense cabbages are rich in fiber and vitamins C and K. Roast them with olive oil and garlic for a delicious side dish.
Broccoli: A winter staple, broccoli is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s perfect for steaming, roasting, or adding to stir-fries.
Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, and Spaghetti): Packed with vitamin A, squash is ideal for cozy soups, casseroles, or roasting.
Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet and starchy tubers are high in fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They’re excellent roasted, mashed, or baked into fries.
Kale and Spinach: Leafy greens like kale and spinach thrive in cooler weather and are great for salads, soups, or smoothies.
Delicious Ways to Use December Seasonal Produce
1. Winter Citrus Salad
Combine orange and grapefruit slices with arugula, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing winter salad that’s bursting with flavor and nutrients.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Seeds
Roast Brussels sprouts until crispy, then sprinkle with pomegranate seeds for a festive, nutrient-packed side dish.
3. Pear and Spinach Salad
Slice ripe pears and toss them with spinach, walnuts, and goat cheese. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette for a simple yet elegant dish.
4. Sweet Potato and Kale Soup
Simmer sweet potatoes, kale, onions, and vegetable broth for a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
5. Spaghetti Squash with Garlic and Broccoli
Roast spaghetti squash and top it with sautéed garlic and broccoli for a low-carb, nutrient-dense main course.
Tips for Storing and Preparing Seasonal Produce
Citrus Fruits: Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to extend shelf life.
Pears: Allow them to ripen at room temperature, then refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Pomegranates: Keep whole in the fridge for up to a month or remove the seeds and store them in an airtight container.
Leafy Greens: Wash and store in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag to keep them crisp.
Squash and Sweet Potatoes: Store in a cool, dark place to prevent sprouting and rotting.
December’s seasonal produce offers a perfect blend of flavors, colors, and nutrients to brighten your meals and support your health during the colder months. Whether you’re whipping up a hearty soup, a fresh salad, or a festive side dish, incorporating these fruits and vegetables into your diet will keep you energized and inspired.
Ready to embrace the season and make healthier choices? Reframe Nutrition’s dietitians can help you craft a personalized nutrition plan that fits your lifestyle.
Schedule a free discovery call today and start your journey to wellness with us!
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