Illinois Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in June
Your Fresh Guide
This Article is Part of our Illinois Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar
June in Illinois marks a turning point in the seasonal produce calendar. With the advent of warmer weather and longer days, this Midwestern state sees a surge in the availability of fresh fruits (What wine goes well with fruit?) and vegetables. Farmers and gardeners alike begin to harvest the bountiful yields that have benefitted from the spring's preparatory work. During this month, Illinoisans can enjoy a diverse selection of crops that have just reached their peak in flavor and nutritional value.
Fruits such as strawberries and blueberries become ripe for the picking, adorning market stalls with their vibrant reds and deep blues. These juicy offerings are a highlight for many looking to enjoy the natural sweetness that only in-season, locally-sourced fruits can provide. Additionally, the state's vegetable collections grow more abundant, with asparagus (What wine goes well with asparagus?), leafy greens like spinach (What wine goes well with spinach?), and a variety of herbs becoming readily available.
Incorporating these seasonal delights into meals not only supports local farmers but also ensures that consumers are getting the freshest produce with the highest nutritional content. Whether it's creating a berry-based dessert or adding fresh green vegetables to a salad, June's seasonal produce invites Illinois residents to experience the flavors and benefits of eating locally and seasonally.
Seasonal Overview
In June, Illinois transitions from the fresh blooms of spring to the lush growth of early summer. Consumers can expect a robust variety of fruits and vegetables, reaching peak ripeness as the days grow longer and warmer.
Understanding Seasonality
Seasonality refers to the times of the year when certain fruits and vegetables are at their peak of freshness and flavor. In Illinois, June marks a period where spring produce is still available, but summer's bounty begins to flourish. Eating seasonally ensures higher nutritional content and optimal taste, while supporting local agriculture.
June in Illinois
June in Illinois is characterized by the advent of summer. The residual spring crops, such as asparagus and spring greens, overlap with the arrival of summer fruits and vegetables. Here is a breakdown of what is typically in season during June:
Vegetables:
Broccoli (how long does broccoli last?): June through October
Cabbage: June through November
Cauliflower: August through October
Carrots: May through November
Fruits:
Strawberries: Late May through June
As July approaches, more summer varieties will start to appear, while some of the spring produce will phase out. Consumers can enjoy the last of the spring harvest and welcome the new abundance that summer crops bring.
Fruit Highlights
June in Illinois marks the transition into warm summer months, and with it comes the bounty of fresh fruit. Residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of berries and stone fruits that reach their peak during this time.
Berries and Stone Fruits
Strawberries come into season in June, offering their signature sweet and slightly tart flavor. They are ideal for eating fresh, as well as for use in jams and desserts. Cherries, another early summer favorite, are typically ready to be picked in June. Both sweet and tart varieties are available, providing a range of taste experiences suitable for snacking, baking, and preserves.
Stone fruits, a group known for their hard pit and succulent flesh, also begin to make an appearance. Peaches start their season, and consumers can enjoy these juicy fruits in everything from pies to salads, or simply on their own.
Unique Fruits of June
June not only brings well-known favorites but also a time when more unique varieties of fruit reach maturity. These fruits may not be as commonly recognized as strawberries or peaches, but they offer distinctive flavors and are eagerly awaited by local fruit connoisseurs. These include a variety of lesser-known berries that can be found at local markets or pick-your-own farms. Visitors should ask local growers about the special fruits that are specific to the region for a chance to taste something truly unique to the month of June in Illinois.
Vegetable Highlights
In June, Illinois offers a bounty of fresh vegetables that are at their peak. From leafy greens to an array of robust root vegetables, consumers have a variety to choose from for their summer meals.
Leafy Greens and Cruciferous Vegetables
June marks a prime time for leafy greens in Illinois. These vegetables are ideal for salads or as cooked side dishes. Consumers can find a variety of greens such as:
Arugula
Smooth yet peppery flavor, suitable for salads or as a pizza topping.Spinach
Versatile green, excellent for salads, sautéing, or blending into smoothies.
Cruciferous vegetables are also seasonal stars with broccoli and cabbage ready for harvest. Broccoli's tender florets and stalks are perfect for stir-fries, while cabbage can be utilized in coleslaws or fermented into sauerkraut (how long does sauerkraut last?).
Roots and Squashes
Root vegetables like beets and radishes offer vibrant colors and flavors. They can be enjoyed raw, roasted, or pickled:
Beets: Earthy flavor, typically roasted to bring out their natural sweetness.
Radishes: Crisp texture with a peppery kick, excellent in salads or as a garnish.
Though not traditionally a squash, zucchini emerges in June and fits this culinary profile well. It can be used in a variety of dishes from grilled sides to zucchini bread.
While not a root or squash, sweet corn is a quintessential summer vegetable in Illinois. It's cherished for its sweet, juicy kernels and is a staple at many barbecues and summer gatherings.
Note: Asparagus season typically concludes in June, so this is the time to enjoy the last of its fresh, tender spears.
Tomatoes, although often present in vegetable lists, are technically a fruit and reach their peak later in the summer months in Illinois.
Farm to Table
June marks a vibrant period for Illinois' agricultural abundance, where fresh produce reaches peak availability through local channels such as farms and farmers markets. This month, consumers see an influx of seasonal fruits and vegetables that enrich the farm-to-table experience.
Local Farms
Illinois farms play a crucial role in the farm-to-table movement, providing a diverse selection of fresh produce. Consumers can directly support these local agricultural businesses by purchasing seasonal items. In June, notable offerings include:
Fruits: Strawberries, Apples, Blueberries, Cherries
Vegetables: Broccoli, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Radishes, Turnips, and Greens like Spinach and Lettuces
These farms not only offer fresh, locally grown produce but also promote sustainable farming practices, further enhancing the quality of the food brought to the table.
Farmer's Markets
Farmers markets across Illinois act as community hubs where farmers and consumers connect. During June, they overflow with a variety of fresh produce harvested from nearby farms. Shoppers at these markets can find:
Fruits: Fresh-plucked Strawberries, ripened Cherries, and tangy Blueberries
Vegetables: Crunchy Broccoli, earthy Cabbage, and tender Spinach
The markets serve as pivotal points for farm-to-table transactions, ensuring the produce is not only fresh but also retains maximum flavor and nutritional value due to the reduced travel time and distance.
Preparation and Usage
In Illinois, June brings a bounty of fresh produce which can be transformed into delectable dishes or preserved for later enjoyment. Utilizing the right techniques can enhance flavors and extend the shelf life of these seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Cooking and Recipes
Salads: June's fresh greens and herbs serve as the perfect base for a crisp salad. One can combine arugula, spinach, and basil with a vinaigrette to highlight their freshness. Berries, also abundant in June, can add a sweet contrast to the leafy components.
Pies: Fruit pies are a classic way to use June's ripe produce. Apples and blackberries picked during their peak can be baked into pies with a golden crust, creating a sweet and satisfying dessert.
Salsa: One can create a vibrant salsa using ripe June tomatoes, which provide the perfect acidity balanced with the subtle heat of seasonal peppers and the fresh hint of cilantro and onions.
Preservation Techniques
Jam: Preserving fruits like strawberries and blueberries that are plentiful in June into jam enables one to capture the essence of summer. The process involves boiling the fruit with sugar and pectin (how long does pectin last?), then sealing it in sterilized jars.
Freezing: Freezing is another method suitable for many of June's fruits and vegetables. One can freeze berries on a baking sheet before transferring them to containers, thus preserving their shape and flavor, which can later be added to smoothies or baked goods.
Health and Nutrition
June in Illinois brings a bounty of farm-fresh produce that is not only delicious but packed with nutritional value. Fresh berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, are in season and offer a wealth of antioxidants. These compounds combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Berries are also high in fiber, which supports digestive health, and vitamin C, essential for immune function and skin health.
Greens, including spinach and kale, are abundant and provide an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. They're also rich in minerals like iron and calcium. Regular consumption of greens is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Their high fiber content contributes to satiety and can aid in weight management.
Nutrient Benefits Found in Vitamin C Immune support, skin health Berries, Greens Vitamin K Blood clotting, bone health Greens Fiber Digestive health, satiety Berries, Greens Antioxidants Combat oxidative stress Berries
Incorporating herbs such as basil and mint into meals not only adds flavor without the need for excess salt but also offers health benefits. Herbs contain unique phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties. They can play a role in overall wellness by contributing to the reduction of disease risk factors.
Individuals looking to enhance their diet during this season can take advantage of these nutritious options. They can support local farmers by purchasing seasonal produce from farmers markets or participating in Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. Not only does this practice sustain the local economy, but it also ensures the freshest, most nutrient-packed produce is available.
Seasonal Buying Guide
June in Illinois offers a bounty of fresh produce, making it a perfect time for consumers to visit local stores and markets. Knowledge of crop availability and how to select high-quality fruits and vegetables can enhance one's shopping experience and culinary endeavors.
Shopping for Quality
When visiting markets or stores, buyers should look for fruits and vegetables that are firm to the touch and have a vibrant color, which often indicates freshness and ripeness. For example, asparagus, which is in season, should be green and firm, not limp or overly dry. Leafy greens like spinach should appear bright and not wilted. Signs of spoilage or damage, such as bruises or soft spots on fruits like strawberries and tomatoes, should be avoided.
Customers can typically find better quality produce at farmers’ markets, as fruits and vegetables are often picked at their peak and sold directly by the growers. Restaurants also source these seasonal ingredients for their fresher taste and higher nutritional value, integrating them into their June menus.
Understanding Crop Availability
Crop availability in Illinois varies, with many fruits and vegetables hitting their peak in June. Availability at markets and in stores depends on several factors, including local harvests and regional growing conditions.
Crop Availability Best For Strawberries Early June Jam, fresh salads Blueberries Late June Baking, fresh eating Peaches Starting June Desserts, canning Asparagus Until early June Grilling, roasting Broccoli Throughout June Steaming, stir-frying Leafy Greens Throughout June Salads, sautéing
These are just a few examples. Shoppers will find these crops and more at local Illinois farmers’ markets and in produce sections of stores. Restaurants may have dishes featuring these ingredients as they are fresher and more flavorful during their natural growing season. Timing is crucial for consumers to get the best of what the season has to offer, and they should stay informed about the local harvest times to make the most of their trips to the market.
Environmental Impacts
Local consumption of seasonal fruits and vegetables in Illinois during June can positively influence the environment. Local produce reduces the need for long-distance transportation, diminishing greenhouse gas emissions associated with food miles. Seasonal fruits and vegetables, harvested at their peak, require less energy for storage and ripening, further mitigating environmental impact.
Eating seasonal produce aligns consumer demand with natural growing cycles. This practice supports agricultural sustainability and minimizes dependence on artificial growing methods that can have detrimental environmental effects, such as higher energy use and increased chemical inputs.
Fresh produce from local sources often involves fewer preservatives and packaging materials compared to their off-season, transported counterparts. Reducing the use of these materials is beneficial as it decreases waste and pollution.
Advantages of Local Seasonal Produce Environmental Benefits Reduces transportation emissions Lowers carbon footprint Aligns with natural agricultural cycles Promotes sustainable farming Requires less energy for refrigeration and storage Lessens energy consumption Involves minimal packaging materials Reduces waste and pollution
Consuming fruits and vegetables from Illinois during their natural June harvest supports local ecosystems and promotes biodiversity. Moreover, it fosters resilient food systems capable of adapting to climate-related challenges, such as irregular precipitation and temperature shifts, which are becoming increasingly prevalent due to climate change.
Calendar of Harvest
Illinois offers a diversity of fruits and vegetables throughout the year with June marking the beginning of an abundant harvest season. Below is an overview of the produce typically harvested during this month:
Fruits
Strawberries: Starting the month with their peak sweetness, strawberries are a highlight of early June.
Cherries: Sweet cherries come into season, ready for picking and enjoying.
Blueberries: Late June ushers in blueberry season, offering plump and juicy berries.
Apples: Certain early varieties of apples may start to become available by the end of the month.
Vegetables
Asparagus: Wraps up its season in early June, so it's best to enjoy this vegetable early in the month.
Leafy Greens: Such as spinach and lettuce, continue to thrive and are readily available throughout June.
Radishes: Known for their crisp and spicy flavor, radishes are harvested during this month.
Peas: Both snap and shell peas reach their peak during the warm days of June.
Beets: Begin to make their appearance, adding earthy flavors to the seasonal selection.
This time of the year, farmers' markets and grocery stores in Illinois are stocked with these locally sourced produce, ensuring that consumers can enjoy fresh and flavorful fruits and veggies. It's an ideal time for residents and visitors to indulge in the state's agricultural offerings.
