Nebraska Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in July

Your Fresh Produce Guide

This Article is Part of our Nebraska Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar

Nebraska’s warm summers create a bountiful season for a variety of fruits and vegetables in the month of July. During this time, local farmers’ markets and grocery stores are teeming with fresh produce, picked at the peak of ripeness. Seasonal produce not only offers a fresher and more flavorful option, but often comes at a better price, supporting the local economy and reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of goods.

July is a particularly noteworthy month as it brings a harvest of colorful fruits and vegetables. Sweet corn, a staple in Nebraska, is typically ready and at its sweetest. Tomatoes, cucumbers (how long do cucumbers last?), and green beans also fill the stands, offering the perfect ingredients for fresh salads and side dishes. Fruits like cherries (how long do cherries last?)and apricots reach their peak in July, providing delicious, juicy options for desserts or healthful snacking.

Knowing the seasonal produce available in Nebraska helps residents and chefs alike to plan meals that are not only nutritious but also aligned with the state's agricultural cycle. This encourages a connection with the community's agricultural roots and ensures that when one buys local, one gets the best in taste and nutrition that Nebraska has to offer.

Seasonal Overview

The month of July marks a vibrant period for Nebraska's agriculture, with an array of fruits and vegetables reaching their peak harvest period. This section provides insights into the significance of seasonal produce, Nebraska's specific growing conditions, and the abundance of produce available in July.

The Importance of Seasonality

Seasonal consumption aligns with fresh produce availability and often results in enhanced flavor and nutrition. In Nebraska, seasonality is key to supporting local agriculture and ensuring the freshest produce is on the table. When Nebraskans choose in-season fruits and vegetables, they not only enjoy better taste but also contribute to the sustainability of the local farming industry.

Understanding Nebraska's Growing Season

Nebraska's growing season is influenced by its continental climate, characterized by variable weather patterns. While the state experiences a broad range of temperatures throughout the year, the warm summers provide an ideal environment for a variety of crops to thrive. The state's fertile soils also play a critical role in supporting a rich agricultural landscape.

July in Nebraska

In July, Nebraska's fields and orchards are verdant and bountiful. The state's farmers markets and grocery stores are typically stocked with produce fresh from local farms. Here is a snapshot of fresh produce typically in season during July in Nebraska:

• Fruits: cherries, berries (such as raspberries and blueberries(how long do blueberries last?), and peaches.

• Vegetables: sweet corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, green beans, beets, and zucchini (What wine goes well with zucchini?).

Consumers can expect these fruits and vegetables to be at their peak of freshness, flavor, and nutritional value. Each product listed is not just a seasonal choice but reflects Nebraska's agricultural prowess during a month when the state's produce is celebrated.

Fruits in Season

July in Nebraska is a bountiful month for fresh produce, with a variety of fruits reaching their peak ripeness. Consumers can enjoy a diverse selection from juicy berries to succulent stone and tree fruits.

Berries and Stone Fruits

July sees an abundance of berries. Blackberries (how long do blackberries last?) and blueberries are ripe, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. They are typically ready for picking throughout the month. Cherries also make a notable appearance and are widely available. Stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, and plums come into season. These fruits, known for their fleshy exterior and a single pit or "stone" inside, are at their flavorful best.

• Blackberries: Available

• Blueberries: Available

• Cherries: Available

• Peaches: Available

• Nectarines: Available

• Plums: Available

Melons and Tree Fruits

Tree fruits beyond stone fruits are also notable in July. Watermelons, synonymous with Nebraska’s summer, are a highlight, with their refreshing and hydrating qualities. In addition to melons, Nebraska's climate is accommodating to a variety of other tree fruits that come into season and are available at local markets.

• Watermelons: Available

Vegetables in Season

July in Nebraska is a flourishing month for a variety of vegetables, with many reaching their peak freshness. Shoppers at local farmers' markets can expect vibrant produce, known not only for their flavor but also for being nutritionally rich.

Leafy Greens and Beans

Nebraska’s July heat brings an opulent harvest of leafy greens. Kale, lettuce, and spinach are readily available during this time, offering a medley of textures and flavors for salads and side dishes. Beans also make their seasonal mark; fresh green beans can be found hanging plump on their vines, ready for snapping.

• Kale: Rich in nutrients, perfect for salads and smoothies.

• Lettuce: Crisp and fresh, ideal for cool summer salads.

• Spinach: Ideal for both raw and cooked dishes, versatile in recipes.

• Beans: Green beans are tender and at their peak for picking.

Root Vegetables and Squashes

As the ground warms, root vegetables like beets, carrots, and radishes are harvested with their bright colors and earthy flavors. They are often enjoyed both raw in dishes or cooked to bring out their natural sweetness. Summer brings about the season for squashes as well, with varieties like zucchini and summer squash being plentiful.

• Beets: Deep reds and purples, sweet and earthy in taste.

• Carrots: Snappy and sweet, good for eating raw or cooked.

• Radishes: Peppery flavor, perfect for adding a crunch to salads.

• Zucchini: Soft and mild, suitable for grilling or sautéing.

• Summer Squash: Delicate flavor, versatile for various recipes.

Nightshades and Miscellany

The nightshade family makes a strong showing with tomatoes, eggplant (how long does eggplant last?), and peppers all coming into season. These vegetables are a staple in many cuisines and bring a variety of flavors and textures to summer meals. Cucumbers also appear in abundance, providing a refreshing crunch to the summer palates.

• Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, ranging from small cherry tomatoes to large beefsteaks.

• Eggplant: Glossy and purple, with a spongy texture that absorbs flavors well.

• Peppers: From sweet bell peppers (What wine goes well with bell peppers?) to hot chilies, they add color and spice.

• Cucumbers: Crisp and cooling, ideal for salads and pickling.

Selecting and Storing Produce

When choosing and storing fruits and vegetables in July, one should focus on ripeness and proper storage methods to maintain their bright flavor and freshness.

Choosing the Best Quality

When selecting produce, whether at a farmers market or grocery store, it's crucial to assess the ripeness for optimal taste and texture. For fruits like berries and stone fruits, look for a strong, sweet aroma and a vibrant color marking their ripeness. Vegetables should be firm and bright, indicating they have been picked at the right time. Avoid produce with blemishes, bruises, or signs of wilting.

Storing for Freshness

Once the best produce is selected, proper storage is key to prolong freshness. Most fruits and vegetables keep well in the refrigerator. Some items, such as tomatoes, can lose flavor and texture when chilled, so they are best kept at room temperature. For longer-term storage, options like freezing or canning can preserve the harvest. When using a fridge, ensure to adjust humidity settings according to specific produce requirements — generally, high humidity for leafy vegetables and low humidity for fruits.

Preparing and Using July Produce

In Nebraska, July brings a variety of seasonal produce that can be utilized in many ways, from simple raw consumption to preservation for future use. Understanding the best methods for preparing and using these ingredients ensures maximum flavor and nutrition retention.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling: Vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, abundant in July, are perfect for grilling. They can develop a charred, smoky flavor that enhances salads and sides.

Blanching: Green beans, another July produce, retain their vibrant color and crispness when blanched quickly in boiling water.

Recipe Ideas

• Salads: Use fresh lettuces and cucumbers for a simple, crisp summer salad. Incorporating berries or stone fruits adds a sweet contrast to the greens.

• Sauces: Tomatoes are at their peak; they can be cooked down into rich pasta sauces or salsas.

Preservation Methods

• Freezing: Berries and stone fruits can be washed, dried, and spread on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to bags, extending their use well into winter.

• Canning: Tomatoes and cucumbers can be preserved using a pressure canner to make pickles or tomato sauce that can be enjoyed year-round.

Health Benefits and Nutrition

Eating fresh produce during its peak season in July provides numerous health benefits, as fruits and vegetables harvested at this time are often more flavorful and nutrient-dense. In Nebraska, the bounty of seasonal foods includes a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary for overall health and well-being.

Fruits such as watermelon and berries are in abundance. These fruits are not only refreshing but also high in water content and fiber, essential for hydration and digestive health. Watermelons, for example, contain vitamins A and C, aiding in immune support and skin health. Berries, like strawberries and blueberries, offer antioxidants such as flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and contribute to heart health.

Vegetables, including tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers, bring a spectrum of nutrients to the table. Tomatoes are known for their lycopene content, a powerful antioxidant, while bell peppers provide a high amount of vitamin C. Cucumbers, being rich in water, contribute to hydration and provide a source of vitamin K, essential for bone health.

Consuming a variety of these seasonal offerings can contribute to meeting nutritional goals. For instance:

• Adults should aim for 1.5-2 cups of fruit and 2-3 cups of vegetables per day.

• Adding variety to one's diet can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer, and support overall health.

The practice of eating seasonally aligns with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and enhances the nutritional value and taste experience of meals, encouraging a healthier, more balanced diet.

Gardening Tips for July

July in Nebraska is a critical time for gardeners who aim to ensure a bountiful harvest. Vigilant maintenance and proactive pest and disease management are imperative during this midsummer month.

Maintaining Your Garden

Gardeners should focus on regular watering and replanting where necessary to maximize their garden's potential. Successive plantings of crops such as beans and sweet corn can lead to a continuous yield until autumn. For those considering a fall harvest of vegetables like lettuce, radish, carrots, beets, turnips, kale, and spinach, they should sow seeds from late July to early August. Container gardening can also be quite productive; however, gardeners must ensure adequate soil moisture and fertility, as pots may dry out faster than garden beds.

• Watering: During the heat of July, keeping soil moist is crucial for plant health. An early morning watering routine can minimize evaporation and prepare plants for the heat of the day.

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pest and Disease Management

Gardeners must be vigilant in July to shield their produce from pests and diseases. Regular inspections are essential for early detection. If pests are spotted, Nebraska farmers often use permethrin in the first application of spray for peach tree borer on trees like peach, cherry, and plum, with follow-up treatments typically scheduled for July 25 and August 15. Always choose products labeled specifically for the crop in question to prevent harm and ensure effectiveness.

• Regular Inspections: Check plants frequently for signs of insect damage or disease.

• Appropriate Treatment: Use treatments applicable to the specific pest or disease found, and apply according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Implementing these tips can help Nebraska gardeners cultivate a successful and plentiful garden throughout the summer and into the fall season.

Local Farm Visiting and Farmer's Markets

July in Nebraska offers an inviting opportunity for individuals and families to engage with their local community by visiting farmers' markets and farm stands. These local gatherings are not only a means to support Nebraska farmers but also a way to indulge in the freshest crops at a reasonable cost.

Farmers' Markets: Nebraska shines with a diversity of farmers' markets throughout the state, with dozens open in July. These markets serve as a direct channel for consumers to purchase high-quality, seasonal produce from local producers. Shoppers can find a variety of fruits and vegetables grown in Nebraska's fertile soil, with offerings varying by the week based on what is in season.

• Seasonal Highlights for July:

  • Berries

  • Asparagus

  • Squash

  • Melons

  • Sweet corn

  • Peaches

  • Potatoes

  • Cherries

Direct Farm Visits: For those who prefer an even closer look at where their food comes from, several Nebraska farms welcome guests to pick their own fresh produce right from the fields. This not only provides an authentic farm experience but also often results in lower prices, as the middleman is eliminated. Family farms like Nelson Produce Farm in Valley, NE, become bustling hubs for the community during these pick-your-own events.

Farm to Table: By participating in these farm visits and markets, customers are playing a pivotal role in sustaining the agricultural community. The direct farm-to-table approach ensures that most of the expenditure stays within the local economy, thus supporting the very people who are the backbone of Nebraska's agricultural sector.

Conclusion

In July, Nebraska's vast agricultural landscape flourishes with a bounty of seasonal produce, offering a wealth of fresh fruits and vegetables. This peak growing season bestows an abundance of healthful options that contribute to a nutritious diet. Purchasing local produce during this month not only supports farmers but provides consumers with the freshest, most flavorful selections.

The following table highlights key produce available in July:

Vegetables Fruits Tomatoes Cherries Sweet Corn Peaches Peppers Blackberries Cucumbers Blueberries Zucchini Watermelons

Consumers can relish in the fresh taste of tomatoes, whose ripe flavors are a testament to Nebraska's fertile soils. Sweet corn, a staple in the U.S., is particularly sought after in July, as it reaches peak sweetness. For those looking for a refreshing crunch, cucumbers and peppers add both texture and nutritional benefits to summer dishes. Zucchini, versatile in its use, is another vegetable that thrives during this time.

The fruit selection is equally impressive, with stone fruits like peaches revealing a juicy sweetness characteristic of the season. Berries, such as blackberries and blueberries, provide antioxidants and are perfect for healthy snacking or adding to desserts. Watermelons are also a crowd-pleaser, offering hydrating refreshment on warm summer days.

By incorporating these seasonal offerings into their diet, Nebraskans can enjoy the taste of summer while boosting their health with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Thus, July stands out as an exceptional time for those in Nebraska to experience the full range of nature's offerings, perfectly aligned with both taste and wellness.