January can feel a bit blah when it comes to fresh produce, but there are actually some great fruits and veggies in season right now that are tasty, affordable, and easy to use. Here’s a quick guide to what’s in season this month and some simple ideas for cooking and pairing them.
What’s in season in January?
- Kale, Swiss Chard, Collard Greens, and Brussels Sprouts
- Carrots, Beets, Sweet Potatoes, Parsnips
- Oranges, Grapefruits, Clementines
- Apples and pears
Easy ways to enjoy them
Roasted veggies
Toss Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until crispy on the outside and tender inside. Done! This works great as a side or tossed into salads or grain bowls during the week.
Simple kale salad
Massage chopped kale with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt for a few minutes until it softens. Then add sliced apples, a handful of nuts, and a drizzle of your favorite salad dressing!
Citrus boost
Peel some oranges or clementines and toss the segments into your oatmeal, yogurt, or salad for a fresh, sweet kick or just enjoy them as a snack!
Beet hummus
Grab a jar of store-bought hummus and stir in some pre-cooked, chopped beets (you can often find these in the refrigerated section). It turns your hummus a fun pink color and adds some natural sweetness. Perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on toast!
Baked apples or pears
Core an apple or pear, sprinkle with cinnamon, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until soft. Great to top on yogurt, oatmeal, salads, etc!
Snack Ideas Slice an apple or pear and spread a little peanut or almond butter on top for a quick, satisfying snack!
Bonus tips
- Wash and chop veggies like carrots and kale right when you get home to make it easier to use them throughout the week.
- Don’t be afraid to roast a big batch of veggies at once and use leftovers in wraps, salads, or with eggs for breakfast.
Eating seasonal produce doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Start small with a couple of these easy ideas and see how tasty January can be!