There’s no denying it—summer seasonal produce hits its peak in July. The markets (and our boxes!) are overflowing with juicy stone fruits, sun-ripened berries, crisp cucumbers, and garden-fresh tomatoes. Whether you’re grilling out, meal-prepping with no-cook dishes, or tossing together refreshing salads, July is the time to celebrate the best summer produce in all its glory.
Here’s what fruits and vegetables are at their best this month—and how to use them.
Fruits in Season in July
Peaches, Plums, Nectarines & Apricots
Welcome to peak stone fruit season. Whether you prefer your peaches firm or soft, or love the tangy-sweet bite of a plum or apricots, now is the time to indulge. Try it: 7 Easy Stone Fruit Recipes
Cherries
Whether sweet or tart, cherries are a fleeting summer treat. Pit a batch and toss them into salads, blend into sauces, or just enjoy them by the handful.
Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Blackberries& Raspberries)
It doesn’t get much better than summer berries. These antioxidant-rich fruits are perfect for snacking, topping yogurt, baking into crumbles, or freezing for smoothies.
Watermelon & Cantaloupe
Hydrating, refreshing, and crowd-pleasing—melon season is in full swing. Try with a pinch of salt or paired with feta and herbs for a summery twist. Try it: Watermelon, Radish & Wheat Berry Salad
Mangoes
Though tropical, mangoes are widely available and flavorful this time of year. They’re ideal for grilling, adding to salsas, or blending into drinks.
Vegetables in Season in July
Tomatoes
Arguably the crown jewel of summer vegetables. Eat them raw with just a sprinkle of salt, slice them into sandwiches, or slow-roast them for maximum flavor. Try it: 15 Summer Tomato Recipes
Cucumbers
Crisp and cooling, cucumbers are perfect for raw salads, pickling, or slicing into water for a spa-like refresh.
Corn
Nothing says summer like corn on the cob. Grill it, boil it, or shave it off the cob into salads and salsas. Try it: 9 Must-Try Corn Recipes
Zucchini & Eggplant
These summer squash are at their best grilled, sautéed, or spiralized into “zoodles.” Eggplant especially shines in dishes like ratatouille or Baba Ganoush.
Bell Peppers & Hot Peppers
From sweet bells to spicy jalapeños, July is peak pepper season. Great for stuffing, grilling, or slicing raw into dips.
Green Beans
Tender and crisp, green beans are easy to prep. Try them blanched and tossed with vinaigrette, or charred in a hot pan.
Swiss Chard & Cabbage
Hearty leafy greens like chard and cabbage hold up well to heat—sauté them, shred into slaws, or stuff into wraps.
Need Summer Meal Inspo? Start Here:
- Stone Fruit Recipes
- Summer Tomato Recipes
- BBQ Side Dishes
- Unique Grilling Recipes
- No-Cook & Low-Cook Recipes
Planning Ahead?
Don’t forget to check out our ultimate Seasonal Produce Guide to stay in the know about what’s fresh all year long.