Your guide to January produce–the winter season’s flavorful peak
January may be deep winter, but there’s still plenty of vibrant, seasonal produce to enjoy—especially if you know what to look for. From juicy citrus to earthy root veggies, January produce features a mix of refreshing fruits and comforting vegetables that are perfect for cozy cooking.
Whether you’re craving a citrus-packed smoothie or a hearty sheet pan dinner, here’s your guide to January produce—plus tips and recipes to make the most of what’s in season.
Oranges, Tangerines & Blood Oranges
January is prime time for all things citrus. Oranges, especially blood oranges and tangerines, are at their juiciest and sweetest this month. Use them in salads, zest them into baked goods, or enjoy them fresh as an immune-boosting snack.
Love citrus? Check out: How to Cook with Citrus: Zest, Juice, and Everything in Between
Lemons & Limes
Tart, fragrant, and endlessly versatile, lemons and limes are a winter kitchen staple. Use them to brighten up soups, marinades, or salad dressings—or blend into your favorite winter smoothie for a citrusy kick.
Apples & Pears
Though technically fall fruits, many apple and pear varieties are still in season—and often taste even better after a bit of cold storage. Try baking them into crisps or roasting with root veggies for a naturally sweet side dish.
Pomegranates
These jewel-toned fruits are at their best in January. Add the arils to salads, yogurt bowls, or sprinkle over roasted veggies for a juicy pop of tartness.
Kiwi
Tart, tangy, and packed with vitamin C, kiwi is a winter standout. Slice and eat as is, or blend into smoothies for a tropical-meets-winter flavor boost.
Kale & Cabbage
Hardy greens like kale and cabbage thrive in cold weather. Sauté with garlic, shred into salads or slaws, or cook down in a cozy winter soup for max flavor.
Carrots & Beets
These colorful root veggies are sweet, earthy, and deeply satisfying in everything from sheet pan roasts to smoothies. Bonus: They last forever in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep.
Try carrots in Spiced Carrots with a Harissa Yogurt Sauce and beets in this Creamy Beet and Yogurt Dip.
Keep reading: What’s the Difference Between Carrots and Parsnips?
Winter Squash
Hearty and naturally sweet, winter squash varieties like butternut squash, acorn squash, and kabocha squash are still going strong. Roast, mash, or puree into soup—it’s one of the most comforting ingredients you can cook with this time of year.
Try winter squash in our favorite vegetarian winter recipes.
Leeks
A milder cousin of the onion, leeks add gentle depth to soups, stews, and grain bowls. Be sure to wash well—dirt loves to hide between the layers!
Learn how to cut clean, and prepare leeks for cooking, then try them in:
Sweet Potatoes
Rich in fiber and antioxidants, sweet potatoes are a go-to winter ingredient. Roast them whole, cube for salads, or blend into vegan comfort food dishes for a sweet-savory base.
Broccoli & Cauliflower
These cruciferous cousins are at their peak in cooler temps. Roast them until crispy, blend into a creamy soup, or add to weeknight dinners that feel like a warm hug.
Want to know what’s in season all year long?
Check out the ultimate Seasonal Produce Guide for a month-by-month look at what’s in season all year long—plus tips, recipes, and storage hacks for every season.