Fresh fruits and vegetables grown in and around Maryland are available from Spring through Fall at your community farmers’ market, farm stand, and grocery store. Not sure what’s available and when?
Check out the chart below for some ideas of what is growing in Maryland through the seasons:
| Spring | Summer | Fall |
|---|---|---|
|
Berries Leafy Greens Herbs Onions Garlic Scallions Beets |
Summer Squash Corn Green Beans Tomatoes Peaches Nectarines Plums Hot and Sweet Peppers |
Apples Pears Winter Squash Broccoli Cauliflower Carrots Beets |
Buying fruits and vegetables during the season they are grown provides a great flavor and a great price. Stock up on some of your favorites to munch on now, and then freeze the rest to enjoy all year ‘round.
Freezing produce is simple, and preserves all of the flavors and nutrients of your fruits and vegetables. To freeze them you will need: a large pot, a baking sheet, and freezer bags or containers. Make sure to label and date your frozen fruit and vegetables. Then you can enjoy the flavors of the harvest all year long!
How to Freeze Vegetables:
Leafy greens, beets, summer squash, corn, green beans, tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots will all keep well in the freezer.
- Wash vegetables.
- Cut vegetables into smaller pieces (remove tough stems from greens, cut corn off the cob).
- Add veggies to a pot of boiling water.
- Boil for 3 minutes.
- Cool cooked veggies in ice water for 5 minutes.
- Drain well. If cooking leafy greens, squeeze out excess water.
- Freeze in labeled freezer bags or containers for up to 6 months.
How to Freeze Fresh Fruit:
Berries, sliced peaches, plums, and nectarines all keep well in the freezer.
- Wash fruit and drain/dry well.
- Spread fruit, in a single layer, on a baking sheet and freeze until hard.
- Transfer fruit to a labeled freezer bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
How to Freeze Fresh Herbs:
Add frozen herb cubes to soups, sauces, pasta dishes, casseroles, and stir-frys to boost flavor without adding fat or salt.
- Wash, dry, and chop fresh herbs.
- Place 1 Tablespoon of fresh herbs into each section of a clean ice cube tray.
- Fill each section with water and freeze until solid.
- Transfer frozen herb cubes to a freezer bag and label and date for future use.
Go From Apples to Applesauce
Try this easy recipe go.umd.edu/applesauce
Looking to eat more fruits and vegetables?
- Make a list of family favorite fruits and vegetables and note when they are in season. Plan meals and snacks for the week to include seasonal produce now, and make time to prepare and freeze some for later.
- Shop in season when produce tastes best and can cost less. Look for seasonal sales and discounts so you can buy a variety of fruits and veggies. Ask family members to choose a new fruit or veggie to try - you might find a new family favorite!
- Enjoy fresh produce in different ways - raw or cooked. Wash and cut up fruits and veggies and store within easy reach for a quick healthy snack on the go. Stay hydrated with fresh produce - it has lots of water inside!
