What’s in Season: December Fruits and Vegetables

Your guide to winter produce at its boldest and brightest

December marks the start of true winter produce season. Think vibrant citrus, hardy greens, and root vegetables that bring comfort and nourishment through the coldest days. While the weather outside might be chilly, what’s in season now is anything but dull.

Here’s what fruits and vegetables are at their flavorful best in December—plus recipes to help you make the most of every bite.

Fruits in Season in December

Oranges

From navel to Cara Cara to blood oranges, citrus is a bright spot in winter. Juicy, tangy, and packed with vitamin C, oranges are perfect for snacking or juicing.

Grapefruit

Bold, slightly bitter, and surprisingly refreshing, grapefruit adds brightness to winter salads and breakfast plates.

Lemons

Lemons are essential for balancing flavor in both sweet and savory dishes. Use the juice, zest, or both for maximum impact.

Pomegranates

Pomegranate arils are juicy, tart, and ruby red—great for topping everything from salads to roasted veggies.

Pears

Soft and floral or firm and crisp, pears are at their peak. Use them in baking, poaching, or simply sliced with cheese.

Apples

Late-season apples like Fuji and Braeburn are crisp and great for winter recipes—from baked desserts to savory roasts.

Cranberries

Tart and vibrant, cranberries are perfect for sauces, baking, or adding color and tang to grain salads.

Vegetables in Season in December

Kale & Collard Greens

These hardy greens thrive in cold weather and become sweeter after a frost. Braise them, sauté them, or blend them into soups and smoothies.

Brussels Sprouts

One of the best vegetables in December, Brussels sprouts shine when roasted until crispy or shaved raw for slaws.

Beets

Earthy and naturally sweet, beets add color and flavor to salads, roasts, and grain bowls.

Cabbage

Cabbage is hearty, affordable, and endlessly versatile. Use it in soups, sautés, or crunchy slaws.

Sweet Potatoes

Roast, mash, or cube for grain bowls and salads—sweet potatoes are a winter kitchen staple.

Winter Squash

All varieties of winter squash are at their peak, including:

Butternut: smooth and slightly nutty
Acorn: mild and perfect for roasting
Honeynut: sweet and petite
Kabocha & Koginut: rich and dense
Delicata: thin-skinned and easy to roast
Spaghetti Squash: great as a low-carb pasta alternative

Leeks

Leeks offer a delicate, onion-like flavor and are ideal in soups, sautés, or quiches.

Cauliflower

Roast it whole, blitz into mash, or use as a base for warming winter soups.

Parsnips & Rutabaga

These root vegetables are mildly sweet and perfect for roasting, mashing, or adding depth to soups and stews.

Cozy December Recipe Ideas

Want to Shop Seasonal Year-Round?

Now that you’re a pro at shopping for winter produce in season, check out our ultimate Seasonal Produce Guide for a month-by-month breakdown of what’s in season—and how to use it.