There’s something special about the food that comes with the summer sun. June brings a wave of color, flavor, and freshness to our kitchens, making it one of the best months for seasonal eating. Whether you're visiting the farmer’s market or browsing your local grocery store, you’ll find baskets full of juicy cherries, fragrant apricots, bright greens, and crisp veggies—all part of June’s peak produce.
Eating with the seasons not only supports local farmers but also ensures you're getting fruits and vegetables at their freshest and most flavorful. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best June produce, how to use it in everyday meals (including sweet treats like ice cream and cherry pie), and how these foods can help support overall well-being.
Why Seasonal Produce Matters
Before we dive into what’s ripe in June, let’s talk about why eating seasonal produce is a great idea:
- Flavor and freshness: Seasonal foods are harvested at their peak, which means they taste better and often require fewer added ingredients to shine.
- Better value: Produce that's in season is typically more affordable due to its abundance.
- Nutrient-rich: Freshly harvested fruits and veggies retain more of their natural nutrients.
Now, let’s take a look at what’s in season in June—and how you can use these vibrant ingredients in fun, simple ways.
June produce what's in season and how to use it
Cherries
June is the start of cherry season, and these little red gems are one of the most-loved summer fruits.
- How to use: Eat them fresh, toss them into salads, or bake a classic cherry pie.
- Pro tip: Pit and freeze cherries to blend into smoothies or mix into homemade ice cream for a naturally sweet touch.
- Health benefits: Cherries are packed with natural compounds that may help ease occasional muscle discomfort after activity.
Apricots
This soft, golden stone fruit is delicate, fragrant, and slightly tart.
- How to use: Slice and add to yogurt, grill them for a warm dessert, or dry them for a snack.
- Try this: Apricot jam on sourdough toast or chopped into a fresh grain bowl.
- Health benefits: Apricots support regular digestion and can help maintain skin hydration during warmer months.
Strawberries
Though May starts strawberry season, June still brings sweet, juicy berries.
- How to use: Add to cereal, oatmeal, or mix into lemonade for a refreshing summer drink.
- Try this: Mash strawberries with a touch of maple syrup to swirl into vanilla ice cream.
- Health benefits: Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and support daily wellness needs, especially during hot summer days.
Blueberries
Blueberries start to peak in late June in many regions.
- How to use: Sprinkle on pancakes, add to muffins, or freeze for quick snacks.
- Try this: A blueberry compote pairs well with Greek yogurt or dairy-free desserts.
- Health benefits: These berries support natural energy and help with managing everyday fatigue.
June’s Top Vegetables and How to Use Them
Zucchini
Zucchini is a versatile veggie that belongs in every summer kitchen.
- How to use: Grill, spiralize into noodles, or bake into savory muffins.
- Try this: Make zucchini fritters with herbs and cheese for a light snack.
- Health benefits: Zucchini is hydrating and supports digestive comfort during the warmer months.
Cucumbers
Cool, crisp, and hydrating—perfect for hot days.
- How to use: Slice into salads, blend into chilled soups, or pickle for later use.
- Try this: Make a cucumber-mint salad with lime dressing.
- Health benefits: Helps keep you refreshed and may ease feelings of bloating in summer.
Snap Peas
These sweet, crunchy peas are great raw or lightly cooked.
- How to use: Add to stir-fries, snack on them raw, or toss into pasta dishes.
- Try this: A snap pea and cherry tomato salad with olive oil and lemon.
- Health benefits: A fiber-rich veggie that helps with fullness and supports daily digestion.
Green Beans
Green beans are tender in early summer and easy to cook.
- How to use: Steam, sauté, or roast with garlic and almonds.
- Try this: Green bean and potato salad with mustard vinaigrette.
- Health benefits: Helps support circulation and hydration, especially in hot climates.
Simple Ways to Use Summer Produce
Don’t overthink it. Here are a few easy ideas to bring June produce into your meals:
- Breakfast: Top oatmeal with summer fruit like strawberries or blueberries.
- Lunch: Toss together a cucumber and zucchini salad with lemon and herbs.
- Snack: Freeze cherries or stone fruit slices and enjoy as a cooling bite.
- Dinner: Roast mixed veggies like green beans and snap peas with olive oil.
- Dessert: Try making your own fruity ice cream with pureed apricots or cherries.
Fun Recipes to Try This June
-
Chilled Apricot Smoothie
Blend ripe apricots with yogurt, honey, and a splash of almond milk. -
Fresh Cherry Ice Cream
Mix pitted cherries into vanilla ice cream or freeze-blended banana for a dairy-free version. -
Simple Strawberry Salad
Toss spinach, sliced strawberries, almonds, and balsamic dressing. -
Grilled Zucchini Tacos
Grill thin zucchini slices, wrap in tortillas, and top with salsa and avocado. -
Blueberry Oat Bars
Mix oats, almond flour, mashed bananas, and fresh blueberries for a baked snack.
Conclusion
Eating seasonally is one of the easiest ways to enjoy food at its best. June’s produce lineup offers vibrant colors, juicy flavors, and versatile options to fit any meal. From sweet stone fruits like cherries and apricots to hydrating cucumbers and crisp snap peas, your summer meals can be simple, delicious, and nourishing.
So head to your local market, stock up on what’s in season in June, and get creative in the kitchen. Whether you're making a classic cherry pie, tossing together a fresh salad, or whipping up homemade ice cream, there’s no better time to let summer produce shine.
