A Taste of Florida: A Guide to Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables

From supplying us with essential vitamins and minerals to boosting our immune system, the health benefits of including fresh fruits and vegetables into our diets are well-known, and these benefits only increase when we choose fresh, seasonal produce. 

The unique growing season in Florida allows for diverse produce throughout the year, and eating with the seasons means higher quality ingredients with higher nutritional benefits. You may also find that this produce is more cost-effective, as travel and storage costs are lower when buying locally.  

In this blog, we'll provide a seasonal guide to Florida produce so that you can make informed decisions when browsing through the different fruits and vegetables at the grocery store or farmer’s market.

Winter

Winter fruits and vegetables offer a variety of nutritional benefits, but the most important is vitamin C to boost our immune system and protect us during cold and flu season.

• Citrus: Florida is known for its winter citrus, like oranges, grapefruits, clementines, and tangerines, and these fruits are known to be high in vitamin C. Enjoy as a snack or add them to salads, smoothies, or marinades. Try making homemade juice or use the zest to add flavor to baked goods or sauces.
• Broccoli and Cauliflower: Both low in calories and fat, broccoli and cauliflower are delicious when roasted, steamed, or added to soups or stews. You can also make broccoli or cauliflower rice or use these hearty vegetables in a stir-fry or frittata.
• Radicchio: A great source of fiber and rich in anti-inflammatory properties, radicchio is great when added to salads, grilled, or roasted as a side dish. You can also use radicchio leaves as a wrap for sandwiches.
  
  

Spring

Spring is a season of new beginnings and fresh growth, which reflects the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables available during this time of year. Florida's famous spring produce items include strawberries, avocados, pineapples, radishes, and asparagus. These fruits and vegetables are delicious, versatile, and provide a range of essential nutrients and health benefits.

• Strawberries: These sweet berries pack antioxidants and vitamin C. Enjoy in various dishes, from smoothies and salads to desserts and jams. 
• Avocados: Avocados are a rich source of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins E and K, making them a great addition to any diet. From smoothies and salads to toast and sauces, these fruits are extremely versatile and can be hidden into a variety of dishes.
• Pineapples: A delicious tropical fruit high in vitamin C and manganese, which help support healthy bones and tissues, pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain which helps aid in digestion.
• Radishes: These crunchy, spicy vegetables are a great source of vitamins C and B6, fiber, and potassium. Enjoy raw in salads, roasted, or cooked in dishes like radish soup.
• Asparagus: Asparagus are a versatile vegetable high in vitamins A, C, and K, on top of folate and fiber. You can eat them roasted, steamed, or grilled. They taste delicious on top of any warm or cold salad or baked into a frittata.
  
  

Summer

Summer is a delicious time of year in Florida. Not only are Florida’s summer fruits and vegetables delicious, they also offer a mixture of nutritional benefits.  

• Watermelon: Watermelon is high in vitamins A and C and lycopene, which help protect against heart disease and some types of cancer. Enjoy as a refreshing snack or use it in salads, smoothies, or even grilled on the barbecue.
• Corn: Corn provides fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and heart health. Add to salads, soups, or stews, or enjoy it grilled or roasted on the cob.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a rich source of antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Try including them in salads, sandwiches, or on top of pizza. You can also make homemade tomato sauce or salsa.
• Eggplant: Eggplant is low in calories and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the body. Try roasted, grilled, or in a classic eggplant parmesan dish.
• Okra: Okra is an excellent source of vitamins B and C and folic acid which are essential for maintaining good health and supporting the body's immune system. Enjoy it fried, roasted, or added to soups or stews.
  
  

Fall

Fall in Florida is a beautiful time of the year to enjoy a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. These fall fruits and veggies offer a range of nutritional benefits. 

• Pumpkins: Pumpkins are a good source of vitamins A and C, which are needed for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system. Enjoy them roasted in soups or incorporated into a classic pumpkin pie.
• Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, vital for maintaining healthy eyes and skin. Try roasted, mashed, or in a sweet potato casserole.
• Leafy greens:  Leafy greens have vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Enjoy them in salads, soups, or sautéed with garlic and olive oil.
• Apples: Apples are a good source of fiber, which helps support healthy digestion. Enjoy them sliced and added to salads or oatmeal or use them in pies, crisps, or other baked goods.
• Pears: Pears are a good source of fiber, which helps support healthy digestion. Add them to salads or use them in pies, crisps, or other baked goods.

Mixing seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet is vital for maintaining good health, but it also supports local farmers. Take advantage of Florida's unique growing season and enjoy a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the year!

Moorings Park Communities offers an exceptional dining experience, ranging from casual to fine dining, with Simply the Best^® restaurants that feature unique menus, celebrated wine lists, and impeccable service. Our trained chefs put together seasonal menus with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Along with expanding your palate, discover a lifestyle beyond compare across our three gorgeous campuses, where luxurious residences, breathtaking views, state-of-the-art amenities, and, of course, concierge physicians and personalized healthcare are all included. If you're interested in learning more, contact us today to schedule a personal tour.