What Fruits, Vegetables, and Seafood Are In-Season In November?

As the leaves change color and the air takes on a crisp chill, November brings a delightful selection of fresh produce that is both flavorful and nutritious.

This is the ideal time to savor the richness of fall flavors—from the sweetness of apples to the heartiness of winter squash. In this article, we will explore the fruits, vegetables, and seafood available during November, detailing their health benefits and sharing practical ideas for incorporating them into your everyday meals.

Fruits in Season

Apples

November is the perfect month for a variety of apples, including tart Granny Smiths and sweet Honeycrisps. Apples are incredibly versatile and fit seamlessly into many dishes. You can enjoy them fresh as a snack, bake them into a pie, or even make homemade applesauce.

Rich in fiber and vitamin C, an average medium apple contributes about 4 grams of fiber and 14% of your daily vitamin C needs. For a tasty idea, try adding sliced apples to a spinach salad topped with walnuts and feta cheese for a delightful crunch.

Pears

Pears also come into season this month, offering their juicy sweetness to a range of dishes. They are perfect for salads, desserts, or even savory recipes.

This fruit is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, and vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting. Pair fresh pear slices with a sharp cheese like cheddar as an appetizer. Alternatively, poach pears in spiced red wine for an elegant dessert, which can also impress your guests.

Grapefruit

As we head into winter, good-quality grapefruit finally appears in my favorite grocery store. Grapefruit season really begins in November. Its tanginess makes it an excellent choice for breakfast or a snack.

For nutrition, it is hard to beat grapefruit--half a grapefruit provides about 80% of your daily vitamin C needs. There is nothing quite as satisfying as eating a fresh sweet grapefruit for breakfast. Try it with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for added texture and flavor.

Citrus Fruits

Grapefruit isn't the only citrus fruit in season in November. November marks the beginning of the citrus season, offering a variety of oranges, lemons, and limes. Citrus fruits are not only refreshing but also rich in vitamin C, crucial for supporting your immune system as the weather gets colder.

Consider using fresh lemon juice to brighten roasted chicken or creating a citrus salad with mixed greens, orange segments, and avocado for a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor.

Vegetables in Season

Winter Squash

In November, winter squash such as butternut and acorn squash become plentiful. Their sweet, nutty flavors make them ideal for comforting fall dishes.

These squashes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. A great way to prepare them is to roast cubes of squash with olive oil, salt, and your choice of spices until they are tender and caramelized, offering a delicious side dish rich in flavor.

Kale and Other Greens

As temperatures drop, hearty greens like kale gain popularity. Known for its dense nutrient profile, kale is rich in vitamins K, A, and C, as well as antioxidants.

You can easily incorporate kale into your diet by adding it to soups, blending it into smoothies, or massaging it with olive oil and lemon juice for a salad. It pairs wonderfully with ingredients like chickpeas, roasted sweet potatoes, or even cranberries, making it perfect for a fall-inspired dish.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient that shines in November cooking. Their

natural sweetness and creamy texture lend themselves to both savory and sweet meals.

Rich in beta-carotene and fiber, a medium sweet potato offers more than 400% of your daily vitamin A needs. They can be mashed, roasted with garlic, or even turned into tasty sweet potato fries.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a staple of November, offering countless cooking possibilities. Whether you make a classic pumpkin pie, a hearty pumpkin soup, or roasted pumpkin seeds, this vegetable warms any meal.

Low in calories but high in nutrients, one cup of pumpkin provides over 200% of your daily vitamin A needs. Use canned pumpkin for smoothies or blend it into your favorite bread recipes for added moisture and nutrition.

Seafood in Season

Wild-Caught Salmon

November is an excellent time to indulge in wild-caught salmon, celebrated for its delicious taste and omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are known to support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Aim for about two servings of salmon per week. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the fish. Serve it alongside roasted winter vegetables for a nutritious, satisfying dinner.

Mackerel

Mackerel is another seafood that shines in November. This type of fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has a deep, robust flavor.

Consider grilling or smoking mackerel for a flavorful dish that pairs well with roasted potatoes or a simple side salad. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking to introduce more healthful fats into their diet.

Embrace November’s Bounty

November is a time filled with excellent, nutrient-rich produce that can enhance your meals while supporting your health. From crisp apples to hearty winter squash and flavorful seafood, there are many ways to explore this season's offerings.

Incorporating these in-season fruits, vegetables, and seafood into your daily meals not only seasons your diet but also promotes sustainable eating. So, visit your local farmers’ market or grocery store to gather these seasonal delights. Celebrate the wonderful flavors of November and enjoy all that this month has to offer!

Enjoy fall fruits and vegetables and the beautiful turning leaves!