While winter might seem like a season of hibernation for fresh produce, it’s actually a time when some of the most vibrant fruits and vegetables are at their peak. From tangy citrus to hearty root vegetables, winter’s offerings are perfect for cozy meals and fresh, nutrient-packed recipes.
Here’s a deeper dive into best winter produce, complete with tips for how to use them in your kitchen.
Winter Fruits In Season
Winter brings a burst of sweetness and tang to your table with fruits that thrive in the cooler months:
Winter Citrus Fruits
Varieties: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, tangerines, and blood oranges
Why They’re Special: Juicy, vibrant, and packed with Vitamin C, citrus fruits brighten winter days and boost immune systems.
How to Use: Make a citrus salad with blood oranges, fennel, and mint; zest lemons into baked goods; or use grapefruits for refreshing morning juice.
Try these winter citrus recipes:
Pomegranates
Why They’re Special: Jewel-like seeds (arils) add crunch and tangy sweetness to any dish.
How to Use: Sprinkle over salads, yogurt, or roasted vegetables, or make homemade pomegranate molasses for marinades.
Persimmons
Varieties: Fuyu (crisp and sweet) and Hachiya (soft and jelly-like when ripe)
How to Use: Add slices of persimmon to cheese boards, bake into tarts, or blend into smoothies for a unique, creamy flavor.
Kiwi
Why They’re Special: This tropical gem adds a burst of tangy sweetness and a boost of Vitamin C.
How to Use: Scoop and eat as-is, blend into smoothies, or pair kiwi with yogurt and granola for a simple breakfast.
Other Winter Fruits
Pears: Roast Bosc pears with honey for dessert or slice Anjou pears into a winter salad.
Apples: Use Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples in pies, crisps, or spiced cider.
Cranberries: Perfect for sauces, baked goods, or even as dried snacks.
Get inspired with these winter fruit recipes:
Winter Vegetables In Season
Winter’s vegetable bounty is hearty, versatile, and ideal for comforting meals:
Winter Root Vegetables
Varieties: Carrots, parsnips, turnips, rutabagas, and beets
Why They’re Special: Earthy and nutrient-dense, root veggies are the backbone of winter meals.
How to Use: Roast with olive oil and herbs, blend into creamy soups, or mash for a twist on classic sides.
Keep reading: Your Handy Guide to Root Veggies
Winter Squash
Varieties: Butternut, acorn, delicata, spaghetti squash
Why They’re Special: Sweet and starchy, these squashes are perfect for roasting, soups, or pasta alternatives.
How to Use: Roast delicata squash with maple syrup, stuff acorn squash with grains and veggies, or make a classic butternut squash soup.
Hungry for more? Try these hearty squash recipes:
Leafy Greens
Varieties: Kale, collard greens, Swiss chard, spinach
Why They’re Special: These hardy greens thrive in cold weather and are packed with vitamins and minerals.
How to Use: Sauté kale with garlic and olive oil, add Swiss chard to soups, or blend spinach into smoothies for a nutrient boost.
Brassicas
Varieties: Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli
Why They’re Special: These cold-weather champs are flavorful, versatile, and nutrient-rich.
How to Use: Shred cabbage for slaws, roast Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, or make creamy cauliflower soup.
Leeks and Fennel
Why They’re Special: These aromatic veggies add a mild, sweet flavor to winter dishes.
How to Use: Add leeks to potato soup, or roast fennel with citrus for a caramelized side dish.
Here are even more ways to love fennel:
Other Notable Veggies
Radishes: Spice up salads with slices of black radish or mild daikon.
Sweet Potatoes: Roast for a side dish or mash for a comforting base.
Celery Root: Blend into creamy soups or mash with potatoes for a rustic twist.
Tips for Using Winter Produce
Storage: Store root veggies in a cool, dark place. Leafy greens last longer when wrapped in a damp paper towel and kept in the crisper drawer.
Preparation: Don’t shy away from simple prep methods—roasting, steaming, or raw. Winter produce is naturally flavorful.
Pairings: Combine sweet fruits like pears and apples with savory cheeses or roasted veggies for dynamic dishes.
Get more storage and preparation tips for winter produce:
Why Winter Produce Matters
Buying seasonal produce isn’t just about flavor—it’s about sustainability and supporting farmers. Winter’s bounty brings freshness and nutrition when we need it most, reminding us that the season’s chill has its own delicious rewards.
What’s your favorite way to use winter produce? Share your recipes and ideas in the comments below! And don’t forget to stock up on all the essentials at Misfits Market.
Keep reading: Everything You Need to Know About Winter’s In-Season Fruits