What's in Season in July? Tips for Savvy Shoppers!

July is the heart of summer, offering an exciting selection of colorful fruits and vegetables. Taking advantage of this season not only improves your meals but could also lessen your grocery bills. This post offers a closer look at what's in season this month, highlighting seafood options, sharing preservation tips, and pointing out where to find budget-friendly seasonal produce. Let's get started!

Fruits and Vegetables are at their peak in late summer.

What Fruits and Vegetables are in Season in July?

July is abundant in fresh produce. What is "in-season" varies from one locale to another. People in the Midwestern U.S. wait until August for seasonal sweet corn, while those in the South can find it much earlier. Some places (like my home in Florida) have good produce year-round. But the prices are lowest at times of abundance near you. (Because the less far your produce must travel, the lower the cost.) In the U.S., these fruits and vegetables are available in large quantities in July:

• Fruits: Look for plump watermelons, fragrant peaches, and sweet cherries. Summer favorites like strawberries and blueberries remain in season, making them perfect for desserts or breakfast smoothies. It's a good time to consider making a peach pie or cobbler. How about a traditional Cherry Clafoutis? A Strawberry Crepe dessert?

  
  

• Vegetables: July brings us fresh corn on the cob, crunchy bell peppers, juicy cucumbers, tender zucchini, and all types of tomatoes. Use that fresh corn on the cob to make a Corn, Rice, and Bean Salad or try your hand at making Cornbread with fresh corn. Those sweet bell peppers will make delicious Fajitas! Those in-season tomatoes will make amazing Pico de Gallo or some delicious Gazpacho! These vegetables can elevate your meals, whether you’re grilling, roasting, or tossing them in a salad.

  
  

Buying these fruits and vegetables in season not only enhances their flavor but can also save you money; in-season produce can be up to 30% cheaper than out-of-season options.

A display of fresh July produce invites summer meals

Are Seafoods Seasonal?

Absolutely, seafood availability varies throughout the year! Depending on your region, different fish and shellfish will be at their best in July. According to the Seafood Nutrition Partnership, the following are in season in July:

• Summer species: Certain fish are harvested in abundance during July and are often more abundant and of higher quality in July. These fish include:

  • Keta or Sockeye Salmon

  • Swordfish

  • Some species of Tuna

  • Grey Sole

  • Alaskan Halibut

    

    

    

• Shellfish options: If you love shellfish, some species and types are more available in summer months, including

  • Blue Crabs

  • Clams

  • Mussels

  • Some types of Shrimp.

    

    

    
    
    

Every time I drive by my favorite Asian grocery in July, I see a makeshift "Live Blue Crabs" sign. If you are a bit adventurous, you can find some inexpensive and delicious options.

Basics of Preserving Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables

Preserving the summer harvest enables you to enjoy it long after the season has ended. Here are some effective techniques:

• Canning: A popular method for preserving fruits, such as peaches, involves sterilizing jars, adding sugar, and boiling the mixture. Canning of this type often requires a pressure cooker to process jars. However, some foods, such as jams and jellies, can be processed without the need for pressure cooking. Another option is canning high-acid foods (like pickling) in a water bath. Take a look at our Dilled Green Beans recipe and instructions! If you have a large stock pot and some jars, you have all the specialized equipment you need.

  
  

• Freezing: This method is straightforward. Clean, chop, and blanch vegetables, such as green beans or corn, before freezing to retain their vibrant and flavorful qualities. You can easily add these to stir-fries or casseroles throughout the year. I love to freeze in-season berries on a sheet tray in the freezer and transfer them to Ziplock bags for making smoothies year-round. I also love to freeze fresh herbs.

  
  

These preservation methods ensure you're not only reducing waste but also maximizing the quality and diversity of your cooking options later on.

Pickling summer vegetables and fruits.

Where to Buy Inexpensive Seasonal Produce

Finding quality seasonal produce at reasonable prices is quite achievable. Consider these venues:

• Farmers’ Markets: Farmers' markets are excellent spots to buy local fruits and vegetables. Many times, produce is picked just hours before going on sale, ensuring maximum freshness. Buying directly from farmers often results in savings compared to grocery store prices.

  
  

• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): Joining a CSA program allows you to receive a box of seasonal produce weekly. These programs often offer a cost-effective way to support local agriculture, ensuring you have access to fresh ingredients. Studies show that CSA members save around 10-15% compared to traditional grocery shopping.

  
  

• Grocery Stores: Watch for seasonal sales at nearby grocery stores, especially during July, when special offers often highlight fresh, local produce.

  
  

By using these shopping sources, you can stock your kitchen with fresh ingredients that inspire delicious meals without overspending.

Celebrate the Flavors of July

July is a fantastic month for fresh, seasonal produce that brings joy to your kitchen. By understanding what's available and where to shop, you can enjoy the tastes of summer while also watching your expenses.

Imagine savoring a juicy peach, grilling fresh corn, or vibrant salads brimming with seasonal vegetables. Now is the time to visit your local markets, embrace the plentiful offerings, and let July’s flavors spark your culinary creativity.