There's nothing like biting into a fresh strawberry, still warm from the sunshine, in June. Summer produce starts to really sprout during the first official month of the season, and before you know it, you'll start seeing berries of all kinds at your local farmers market. So why should you eat seasonally? Well, from a financial standpoint, it saves you money. That's why we're here to remind you of all the delicious fruits and vegetables to come with our June Produce Guide.
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So what can you expect to find on grocery store shelves and what can you make with it? We've put together a recipe list that can help you break out of your cooking rut using fruits and vegetables in their peak season!
Depending on where you live, seasonal fruits and vegetables like radishes, apricots, arugula, watermelon, zucchini, and leeks are coming into season.
1. Avocado
Avocado is in season for the spring and summer months in the U.S., even though there were early concerns that the prices could spike based on new demand.
However, California avocados are sprouting wonderfully right now, all the better for using in these Guacamole Bacon Deviled Eggs.
2. Beets
Beets are still hanging in there through June, much to the dismay of picky children everywhere! I kid, and beets are truly a multipurpose vegetable. Pickle them, use them in hummus, or serve roasted beet in a taco to bring out that earthy sweetness.
We love these veggies for breakfast around here and these Pink Beet Pancakes are a delicious twist on the classic recipe. So pretty, they're definitely Pinterest and Instagram-worthy. Top these pancakes with a rhubarb or raspberry syrup and serve seasonal produce alongside.
3. Blueberries
Mainers, rejoice! And everyone else around the country can rejoice, too, because it's blueberry season! The summer's blueberry bounty begins in June and is truly one of the most magical times of year.
Use them in the most refreshing way possible by making our No Churn Blueberry Ice Cream Sandwiches with Oatmeal Cookies. There's just something about blueberry and oatmeal that goes together like America and apple pie.
4. Cherries
Much like blueberries, cherries begin to appear in the early weeks of June. You'll see them regularly in grocery store aisles near the end of the month, but that shouldn't stop you from seeking out locally grown cherries to indulge early.
Cherry Pie Moonshine is the perfect drink to pass around the bonfire this summer. Take it easy though, this one packs quite a punch!
5. Cucumbers
The best part about June produce is that it all seems to pair together deliciously. This list is basically a guide on putting together the freshest picnic basket you ever did see. Cucumbers, after a late spring growing season, are just starting to appear full and thick on the vines now.
What topping pairs better with your tacos than a Cucumber Pico de Gallo that's so crisp and refreshing, we won't blame you if you eat it by the spoonful.
6. Green Beans
Green beans are the often overlooked sidekick at the dinner table. Reaching their peak growing season this month, you'll find green beans that are a deeper green with a sweeter taste now more than ever.
Combine the best of the season with this recipe for Roasted Beets and Green Beans, delicious warm or cold for lunch. This is one recipe that can be prepped ahead of time on the weekends for weekday lunches.
7. Herbs
If you live for fresh herbs, June is the time of year when an herb garden truly springs to life. Basil, chives, green onions, mint, dill, and thyme are just a few of the varieties you'll find reaching their peak season. All the better for picking from the garden and plating right away!
Grab your gardening shears for these Grilled Peaches with Fresh Mint that taste divine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
8. Kale
I've said it once and I'll say it again: the green that lined supermarket deli cases in the 1990s and early 2000s has really found a home in the health community for its many benefits.
A salad is the gateway format for eating kale so try your hand at this Kale Cranberry Pepita Salad that, despite its autumnal flavors, still tastes fresh and seasonal even in June.
10. Mango
Mango, debuting in May, is still growing strong in June. Pairing well with just about every fruit and vegetable on this list, the understated tart and sweet flavor of the fruit is a fantastic tropical canvas for all kinds of recipes.
Our personal favorite is this Strawberry Mango Salsa that tastes delicious on fish tacos or scooped with sweet pita chips all the same!
11. Peas
Peas, specifically sugar snap peas, hit a delicious stride in June and the best part about snap peas is that they taste so good raw. Most of my memories as a kid involve shelling snap peas, do yours?
Enjoy the fresh taste of the season with snap peas and mint with our Minted Pea Quinoa Salad that is another great weekday lunch or #MeatlessMonday dinner for those warm days when you don't feel like turning on the oven.
12. Strawberries
Strawberries seem to be the universal favorite of June produce as they pair so well with just about everything. I've even had a snap pea and strawberry salad that changed my perspective of fruit on salads, seriously.
However, let's take this moment to encourage you to start using fruit during grilling season with our Strawberry Glazed Pork Ribs. There's nothing like the red deliciously bright taste of the berries on top of a warm, perfectly cooked pork rib.
To see what was in season in May, and still is in June, check out our May Produce Guide!
