California Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in June
Your Monthly Guide to Fresh Produce
This Article is Part of our California Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar
June in California signals the transition from spring to summer, bringing a variety of fresh and flavorful produce to the forefront of local markets and menus. This month, the state's bountiful harvest includes a wide array of fruits (What wine goes well with fruit?) and vegetables. The temperate climate of California, coupled with its rich, diverse soil, creates an environment where produce such as stone fruits, berries, and leafy greens thrive.
Fruits like cherries (how long do cherries last?), peaches, nectarines, and apricots reach their peak sweetness and are readily available throughout California during June. These juicy offerings are not only delicious but also provide a wealth of health benefits, being packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Strawberries, harvested mainly from the end of December through mid-July in areas like Ventura County, which produces over a quarter of the state’s strawberries, are also in their prime, offering their full, rich flavor.
On the vegetable spectrum, asparagus (What wine goes well with asparagus?) continues to be a fresh option until the end of June, while the greens such as spinach remain a steady staple due to their near-year-round growing cycle. The abundance and accessibility of these fresh seasonal picks make them ideal for incorporating into a variety of dishes, ensuring that meals are both healthful and in harmony with the season's offerings.
Understanding California's Growing Seasons
California's climate is as varied as its topography, which allows for a diverse array of produce to grow throughout the year. Each season brings forth its unique selection of fruits and vegetables that reach their peak flavor and nutritional value.
Spring (March to June): This is a time of renewal and growth. The season typically starts with the tail end of citrus fruits and transitions into the sweet beginnings of summer berries. Asparagus is notably fresh during this period, typically picked between March and June. Stone fruits like cherries also start appearing in the later part of spring.
Summer (June to September): Bountiful harvests take place as the warm climate nurtures a variety of produce. Summer staples include tomatoes, peaches, and peppers. The earlier part of summer, including June, is perfect for enjoying the full swing of stone fruit season and the start of melon harvests.
Fall (October to December): Harvests in fall are rich with root vegetables and the late-year fruits. Apples, pomegranates, and grapes thrive in this season, with grapes seeing a continuation from their summer growth.
Winter (December to March): Leafy greens and winter squash tend to dominate the scene. Though the selection is less varied, hearty vegetables like kale and Brussels sprouts are abundant.
In sum, California's agriculture is supported by mild weather patterns that create year-round growing conditions. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy an array of in-season produce characterized by their freshness and flavor during each of California's distinct growing seasons.
June's Seasonal Fruits in California
June marks a vibrant period for California's fruit bounty, particularly with the arrival of berry season and the peak of stone fruits' ripeness. Citrus continues to flourish, and exotic fruits add a diverse range to the offering.
Berries in June
In June, berries are at their peak of flavor and abundance. Strawberries and blueberries lead the berry category, enticing consumers with their fresh, sweet taste.
Strawberries: Shipped by the millions throughout the state.
Blueberries: Available across markets, celebrated for their plump juiciness.
Stone Fruits in June
Stone fruits step into the spotlight during this month, decked in full sweetness and variety. They include:
Apricots: Tender, with a rich and tangy flavor profile.
Cherries: Deep red, bursting with juice and are in their last month of peak availability.
Plums: Known for their smooth skin and succulent flesh.
Peaches: Fuzzy skin encasing a sweet, aromatic interior.
Nectarines: Similar to peaches but with a smooth skin, delivering a balance of sweet and tart.
Citrus Fruits in June
Although past the winter peak, some citrus fruits still show off their juicy best in June:
Oranges: Including varieties that remain sweet and juicy during this time.
Lemons: Ever-present, continuing to add zest and tang to dishes and drinks.
Exotic Fruits in June
California's climate allows for exotic fruits to prosper, with some like figs coming into season:
Figs: Begin their season, offering their unique, sweet taste and soft texture.
June's Seasonal Vegetables in California
In June, California's agriculture ushers in a vibrant variety of vegetables. One can find a myriad of fresh and nutritious produce that ranges from crisp leafy greens to succulent summer squashes.
Leafy Greens in June
June marks the season where leafy greens like kale and lettuce thrive in California's climate. Shoppers can find these greens at peak freshness, offering rich flavors and nutritional benefits.
Kale: Offers robust, earthy flavors that are perfect for salads and smoothies.
Lettuce: Comes in various types, including romaine and butterhead, ideal for cool, crisp summer salads.
Root Vegetables in June
As the summer heat begins to rise, root vegetables such as radishes and beets are harvested.
Radishes: Best enjoyed when young and tender, adding a peppery kick to salads.
Beets: Full-bodied and sweet, they can be eaten raw, roasted, or pickled for diverse culinary uses.
Summer Squashes in June
Summer squashes are in full swing, and varieties like zucchini and yellow squash make frequent appearances in farmers' markets.
Zucchini: A versatile squash that's excellent sautéed, grilled, or baked.
Yellow Squash: Similar in flavor to zucchini, it can be used interchangeably in recipes.
Legumes and Pods in June
The pods and legumes family, including green beans and peas, starts to take the spotlight.
Green Beans: These beans are tender and can be steamed, sautéed, or added to casseroles.
Peas: Fresh peas harvested in June have a sweetness unlike any other time of the year.
Throughout the state, vegetables like cucumbers, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes are beginning to enter their prime season, signaling the start of summer's bountiful harvest.
Harvest and Handling Tips
June in California is rich with an array of fruits and vegetables ripe for harvesting. Proper techniques ensure the produce maintains its freshness and flavor from the garden to the kitchen.
Harvesting Techniques
When harvesting in June, one should pick strawberries every three days, as this is the cycle they take from green to white to red, indicating peak ripeness. Asparagus, harvested through June, should be cut at the soil level to preserve the spear integrity. For produce like corn, it should be picked when kernels are plump and emit a milky juice when punctured.
Storage and Preservation
Storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness of the harvest. Strawberries, unlike many fruits, do not ripen after being picked and should not be stored, as they are best enjoyed fresh. For most vegetables, refrigeration is recommended. Blanching vegetables like peas and beans prior to freezing can preserve their quality, while root vegetables like carrots and beets store well in cool, dry places.
Preparation for Cooking
Before cooking, all produce should be thoroughly washed. Leafy greens, in season in late spring, can be roasted or sautéed to enhance their flavor. Tomatoes, perfect for June harvest, can simply be sliced for fresh salads or cooked down into sauces. Most vegetables, including corn, peas, and beans, benefit from minimal cooking times to retain texture and nutrients.
Health Benefits of Seasonal Produce
Eating seasonal produce in June from California provides an outstanding array of health benefits due to its high nutritional content and farm-to-table freshness.
Nutritional Content
Seasonal fruits and vegetables harvested in California during June are particularly rich in a spectrum of vitamins. For instance:
Vitamins C and K: Often found in summer berries and leafy greens, they play crucial roles in supporting immune function and bone health, respectively.
Vitamin B: Available in fresh corn and other seasonal produce, the B vitamins are essential for energy production and maintaining proper nerve function.
Vitamin E: Typically present in avocado, this antioxidant helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
Here is a breakdown of significant vitamin content in some popular fruits and vegetables:
Produce Vitamin C Vitamin K Vitamin B Range Vitamin E Berries High Moderate Low Low Leafy Greens Moderate High Moderate Low Summer Squash Moderate Moderate Low Low Avocado Low Low Moderate High
Farm-to-Table Freshness
When produce is sourced directly from local farms, the time from harvest to table is drastically reduced. This not only ensures that individuals are consuming fruits and vegetables at their peak freshness but also maximizes their taste and nutritional value. Fresh produce has higher levels of antioxidants and vitamins than fruits and vegetables that have been stored for long periods. Choosing a variety of these fresh items introduces a diverse array of nutrients to one's diet, which is beneficial for overall health.
Incorporating Seasonal Produce in Recipes
June's bounty in California offers an array of fresh produce that can elevate the flavor and nutritional value of meals. A focus on incorporating these seasonal ingredients can transform salads, entrees, and desserts.
Salads and Dressings
The vibrant taste of stone fruit like apricots shines in salads. A simple salad can include sliced apricots, fresh arugula, and crumbled goat cheese, dressed with a light citrus vinaigrette. For a refreshing twist, chefs can puree ripe apricots to create a delectable dressing base. Herbs like basil and mint, also in season, add a fragrant note to dressings.
Recipe Idea: Apricot-Mint Vinaigrette
Puree ripe apricots
Mix with chopped mint, olive oil, and a hint of white wine vinegar
Entrees and Sides
Seasonal vegetables such as asparagus and spinach can be the stars of both entrees and sides. Asparagus grilled with a touch of olive oil and sea salt (how long does sea salt last?) makes a simple yet satisfying side. Spinach adds nutritional density and color to pastas and stir-fries. Using seasonal produce not only brings a fresh taste but also supports local farmers.
Cooking Tip: Lightly sauté spinach with garlic and fold into omelets or frittatas.
Entree Example: Garlic Lemon Asparagus paired with a buttery Chardonnay
Desserts and Jams
Ripe seasonal fruit is perfect for homemade jams and sweet desserts. Strawberries and cherries harvested in June are packed with flavor and ideal for jams which can later be used in desserts or as stand-alone spreads. Stone fruit can be baked into cobblers or poached in wine to create an elegant dessert.
Dessert Recipe: Cherry Clafoutis with a dusting of powdered sugar
Jam Suggestion: Strawberry-Rhubarb Jam, pairing well with tea or scones
Farmers Markets and Local Sourcing
In California, June is a month where a rich variety of fruits and vegetables reach their peak, making farmers markets a goldmine for local and fresh produce. These markets allow consumers to bypass the supermarket journey of food which often involves long haul transport and storage.
Finding Local Produce
Shoppers seeking to source local produce have plenty to choose from in California's farmers markets during June. Items such as stone fruits, including cherries and apricots, are abundant. Additionally, shoppers can expect to see fresh vegetables like squash and greens. These markets not only provide access to fresh, seasonal produce but also the opportunity to engage directly with the growers. This direct interaction reinforces transparency and trust in the quality of the produce on offer.
To successfully navigate farmers markets for the best in-season offerings, consumers can:
Visit community boards or local government websites for a schedule of farmers markets in their area.
Utilize social media pages and apps dedicated to local food sourcing, where updates about current harvests and market days are posted.
Supporting California Farmers
By purchasing from farmers markets, individuals directly support the local agricultural economy of California. Instead of funneling money through the layers of intermediaries associated with supermarket chains, spending at these markets sustains family-run farms and the communities around them.
When they opt for locally-sourced goods, consumers help reduce the environmental impact, as the produce travels a shorter distance from farm to table, cutting down on carbon emissions associated with transportation. Moreover, this support encourages farmers to continue using sustainable growing practices that benefit both the land and the ecosystem.
Here are some of the benefits of supporting local California farmers:
Enhanced community economic health
Promotion of sustainable farming methods
Strengthening of the local food system
By visiting a farmers market, one is not merely shopping; they are participating in a cycle that ensures the vitality and longevity of California's rich agricultural heritage.
Gardening Tips for Personal Harvest
In California, June is an excellent month to harvest a variety of produce directly from your garden. Personal gardening can yield fruits with peak flavor and vegetables that maintain a crisp texture, enhancing your culinary experience.
Growing Your Own Fruits
When cultivating fruits in the garden, June presents an opportunity to harvest and enjoy offerings like tomatoes and tomatillos. It's crucial to ensure they get full sunlight and are watered consistently to develop their full flavor. For a successful harvest, gardeners should:
Prune any excess foliage to increase sun exposure to the fruits.
Water in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
Growing Your Own Vegetables
Vegetable gardening requires a dedicated approach for a bountiful harvest. In June, the garden can produce crisp lettuce, tender peas, and robust carrots. To achieve the best results:
Lettuce and peas prefer cooler temperatures, so consider partial shade to protect them from midday heat.
Carrots benefit from deep, loose soil for proper growth.
Regularly check for pests and disease to protect your vegetables.
