Spring produce reflects the energy of the season: snappy young English peas, bright green asparagus, peppery radishes, each has a lively sense of “let a new year really begin”. Everything is waking up after the winter, including the produce. There is so much to anticipate when exploring a farmer’s market this time of year, just as new opportunities in life always seem to start cropping up right about now. Nothing says “fresh start” quite like the flavors of spring. Discover my seasonal spring produce guide with fruits & veg to look out for right now, of-the-moment recipes, and wine pairings.
Your Seasonal Spring Produce Quick List
Apricot
Artichoke
Asparagus
Beets
Bitter Greens
Blueberries
Carrots
Fava Beans
Leeks
Peas
Radish
Ramps
Rhubarb
Spinach
Strawberries
Benefits of Eating Seasonally
As one of my favorite culinary creators, Pierce Abernathy, puts it, “the closer we can get to our food – in terms of it being less processed and more in line with the seasons – the happier and more conscious we’ll be in other areas of our lives.” I couldn’t agree more. Being close to your food means embracing seasonality and the natural cycles of agriculture.
It may sound great to have access to everything, everywhere, all the time but it is actually more of a problem than a solution. Just because you have the option to buy strawberries in the depths of winter doesn’t mean you should. Not only will they taste mediocre, but you will miss out on the joy that comes from the anticipation of the arrival of strawberry season.
Spring Produce Spotlights
Each season, there are certain items that are truly worth celebrating. They can be somewhat rare and elusive to find, or maybe only available for a short time or in certain parts of the world. It is precisely these reasons that make them so exciting! If you come across any of these seasonal spring spotlights, snag some.
White Asparagus
Visually quiet, the arrival of white asparagus is nonetheless a loud reminder that spring has arrived.
Don’t miss its short window of availability, lasting only about 8 weeks from April to June.
The flavor of white asparagus is delicate, but it holds up to roasting and searing as well as steaming.
Morels
Morels are a classic case of don’t judge a book by its cover. They’re not the prettiest but their flavor is incredible.
Earthy, nutty, sometimes even a little bit smoky, morels add richness to typically bright & light spring recipes.
Unlike with other mushrooms, morels are best when they’re the only mushroom in the dish – not mixed with other varieties. Let them shine solo!
What to Cook During Spring
Of-the-moment recipes that highlight the fruit & veg in this spring produce guide
Sydney is a 31-year old American living in Paris. Originally from Pittsburgh, she has also lived in Milan and Cognac. She has a WSET Level 2 certification in wine, along with a degree in environmental engineering and an MBA. She loves exploring local farmer’s markets, haunting her favorite wine bars, and discovering new restaurants.