New Mexico Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in September

Your Guide to Fresh Produce

This Article is Part of our New Mexico Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar

September in New Mexico ushers in a unique transition in the agricultural calendar, a period where the late summer bounty begins to overlap with the first harvests of fall. This month marks a time when a diverse range of fruits and vegetables reach their peak ripeness, providing an abundance of options for consumers and chefs alike. The state's varied climates and elevations contribute to the wide assortment emerging from its soils, making local farmers markets a treasure trove of fresh, seasonal produce.

For fruit enthusiasts, September still offers the sweet remnants of late-summer fruits. While early apples (how long do apples last?) begin to appear, signaling the start of fall, the tail end of the stone fruit season can still yield peaches and plums in some areas. Amongst vegetables, the warmth of the summer continues to support a variety of crops. Hearty squashes, vibrant peppers, and robust greens like kale and chard are commonly available and offer a preview of the coming autumn harvests.

The harvest in New Mexico this month is not just about variety but also about community and sustainability. The state's dedication to farm-to-table practices becomes evident as local produce gains prominence in markets and on plates, embodying the region's commitment to food that is not only fresh and flavorful but also supports the local economy and environment.

Overview of New Mexico's Seasonal Produce

In New Mexico, September brings a harvest replete with variety and flavor due to its unique climate and robust agricultural industry. Consumers are greeted with some of the freshest, locally-grown produce available.

Climate and Agriculture in New Mexico

New Mexico benefits from a diverse climate that ranges from arid to continental, which significantly influences agricultural outputs. The warm days and cool nights of September create a favorable environment for a wide range of fruits and vegetables. New Mexico's agricultural zones can vary greatly due to differences in elevation and precipitation, giving rise to a unique array of local produce during the harvest season.

The Role of Local Farms

Local farms are at the heart of New Mexico's agriculture, fostering a connection between the land and the community. Through these farms, consumers can access a bounty of seasonal fruits and vegetables that are at the peak of freshness in September. The emphasis on local agriculture ensures not only the freshness but also the support for sustainable practices and the local economy. Farms range from smallholdings producing specialized crops to larger operations that supply a variety of produce to markets throughout the state.

September's Harvest Calendar

September in New Mexico is a vibrant time for agricultural bounty. The harvest calendar showcases a variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs reaching their peak ripeness.

Vegetables in Season

Farmers' fields in September are abundant with:

• Tomatoes: Ripe and ready, these are perfect for salads and sauces.

• Chile peppers: The state's signature crop, ranging from green to red as they mature.

• Squashes: Including zucchini (What wine goes well with zucchini?) and yellow summer squash.

• Corn: Sweet and tender, ideal for grilling or boiling.

• Eggplant: Purple and plump, great for roasting or making baba ganoush.

• Cucumbers: Crisp and cool, refreshing in salads.

• Onions: Harvested now, they add flavor to every dish.

Fruits in Season

Though fruit options may be more limited in September, one can still find:

• Apples: With varieties like Gala and Honeycrisp, orchards are ripe for picking.

• Pears: Juicy and sweet, suitable for baking or eating raw.

• Figs: Delicate and rich, a succulent addition to any fruit platter.

Fresh Herbs and Greenery

Adding aromatics and flavors to dishes, available herbs include:

• Basil: Sweet and fragrant, perfect for pesto.

• Cilantro: A citrusy touch for salsas and soups.

• Mint: Refreshing in drinks or as garnish.

• Rosemary: Piney and robust, excellent for seasoning meats.

• Chard: Colorful and nutritious, wonderful sautéed or in salads.

This harvest calendar is a guide to some of the freshest produce available in New Mexico during the month of September.

Selecting the Best Seasonal Produce

In September in New Mexico, a savvy shopper focuses on choosing produce at its peak ripeness for optimal flavor and texture. They are also mindful of proper storage and preservation methods to maintain the quality of their fruits and vegetables.

Identifying Peak Ripeness

When selecting fruits, one looks for external signs of ripeness such as a golden hue on apples indicating they are ready to be enjoyed. For vegetables, a tender but firm texture often signifies peak ripeness. Apples should be crisp and emit a hollow sound when lightly tapped. Chile peppers, a New Mexico staple, transition from green to red as they ripen, and become spicier with time.

Storage and Preservation Tips

Proper storage enhances longevity while maintaining flavor and texture. Most ripe fruit benefits from refrigeration, which slows down the ripening process. For instance, ripe apples should be stored in a cool, dark place or in a crisper drawer to retain their crispness. Vegetables like chile peppers can be dried or roasted for long-term preservation, ensuring their robust flavor is sustained.

Seasonal Recipes and Preparation

September in New Mexico brings a harvest of vibrant produce perfect for a range of recipes, from roasted vegetable dishes to sweet fruit treats, keeping the flavors fresh and the preparation methods varied.

Cooking with Seasonal Vegetables

Vegetables like beets (how long do beets last?) and zucchinis, abundant in New Mexico during September, are versatile ingredients for a variety of cooking methods. Beets, for instance, can be roasted to enhance their natural sweetness, or pickled for a tangy addition to salads. One can also steam them to retain most of their nutrients and flavor. Roasting zucchinis with a dash of olive oil and herbs creates a simple yet delicious side dish that complements any main course.

• Roasted Beets:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Wrap beets in foil and roast until tender, about 45-60 minutes.

• Steamed Zucchini:

  • Slice zucchinis and steam for 5-7 minutes until tender.

  • Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Desserts and Treats with Seasonal Fruits

September's seasonal fruits like apples, plums, pears, and grapes are ideal for creating sweet desserts. Apples can be turned into comforting pies or crisp apple crumbles. Plums provide a juicy base for tarts or can be stewed with a touch of cinnamon for a simple dessert topping. Pears poached in a red wine or spiced syrup become an elegant dessert option, while grapes can be roasted to concentrate their sweetness, making for an innovative addition to cakes or served as a dessert on their own.

• Apple Crumble:

  • Toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.

  • Top with a crumble mixture of butter, flour, and brown sugar and bake until golden.

Savouring Raw Produce

The crisp flavors of September's produce can be thoroughly enjoyed when served raw. Fresh salads incorporating raw beets or thinly sliced zucchinis offer a refreshing crunch and preserve the vegetables' full nutritional profile. Sweet fruits like apples and grapes are delightful when eaten as is or sliced into salads, providing a satisfying and healthy snack or side dish.

• Raw Beet Salad:

  • Peel and grate beets, then mix with a vinaigrette of your choice.

• Apple and Grape Medley:

  • Combine sliced apples and whole grapes with a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty raw treat.

Health Benefits of Seasonal Eating

When individuals opt for seasonal produce, they not only enjoy peak flavors but also gain substantial health benefits from a nutritional and environmental perspective.

Nutritional Advantages

Seasonal fruits and vegetables harvested during their peak months retain more nutrients compared to those picked before or after their prime time. For instance, New Mexico's September harvest includes diverse produce such as apples, pears, and green chile, all of which are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Consuming them during their seasonal best ensures a higher nutritional content, supporting better health outcomes like enhanced immunity and reduced inflammation.

• Apples: High in fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants.

• Pears: Good source of vitamin K, fiber, and copper.

• Green Chile: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and capsaicin.

Eating seasonally also introduces variety into one’s diet, which can contribute to a more balanced intake of essential nutrients.

Supporting Local and Environmental Health

Choosing seasonal produce supports local farmers and reduces environmental strain. Seasonal eating encourages the purchase of locally grown fruits and vegetables, which in turn supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.

• Local Economy: Direct support enhances the financial health of local farming families and preserves regional agricultural traditions.

• Environmental Impact: Lesser transportation distance means reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy consumption, and minimal resource depletion.

By favoring seasonal produce, consumers foster a connection with the local environment and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Where to Find Seasonal Produce

In September, New Mexico flourishes with an array of fresh produce. Locals and visitors alike can access this bounty through farmers markets, roadside stands, and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs.

Farmers Markets and Roadside Stands

Farmers markets in New Mexico, particularly in Albuquerque, become vibrant hubs for seasonal fruits and vegetables in September. Shoppers can find a variety of goods from local farmers, experiencing the peak of harvest season with produce like chilies, apples, and squash. Roadside stands are also prevalent, offering the convenience of purchasing fresh produce directly from local growers along the state's roads.

• Albuquerque Area Farmers Markets:

  • Downtown Growers' Market

  • Rail Yards Market

  • Northeast Farmers' & Artisans Market

• Notable Roadside Stands:

  • Wagner's Farmland Experience

  • Schwebach Farm

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs

CSA programs in New Mexico provide a direct link between residents and the farmers who grow their food. Members receive regular deliveries or pick-up shares of the season’s freshest produce. This initiative supports local agriculture and provides consumers with a diverse range of local produce throughout the harvesting season.

• Featured CSA Programs:

  • Skarsgard Farms

  • Silver Leaf Farms

Shoppers can sign up for CSA programs in advance to ensure they get their share of the harvest and support sustainable farming practices in the community.