Buying fruits that are in season not only supports local farmers and helps sustain the local economy, but it also ensures that you are getting the freshest and most flavorful produce. So, what fruit is in season right now? Read on as NC Seafood Restaurant takes you through the fruits that are in season in North Carolina based on the time of year.
Why is Seasonal Fruit Beneficial?
Seasonal fruit is harvested at its peak ripeness and transported a short distance, which reduces the environmental impact of transportation and need for storage, such as refrigeration. Also, buying in-season fruits can save you money, as there is an abundance of produce at that time. Recall the basics of supply and demand? When the supply of a product increases, the price generally decreases. The same can be said of seasonal fruit. When fruit and local produce is in season, you can expect to pay less for it because there’s plenty of it readily available!
Aside from their economical-friendly price, ripe fruit provides a variety of health benefits. For one, fruit is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that our body needs. With that said, fresh fruit supports a healthy diet. Plus, it’s a delicious addition to many meals.
North Carolina is located in the southeastern region of the United States and is known for its diverse climate, which is conducive to growing a wide variety of fruits. With spring in full swing and summer right around the corner, several fruits are currently in season in North Carolina.
What Fruit is in Season Right Now?
If you’re wondering what fruit is in season right now, it depends on when you’re reading this post, of course. In North Carolina, we have a mild climate that allows farmers to grow a wide variety of produce most of the year. There are a few months where North Carolina experiences a cold winter and farmers can’t harvest crops but for the majority of months, we are lucky to grow several types of produce.
What Fruit is in Season Right Now: Spring Edition
- Strawberries – Strawberries are one of the most popular and beloved fruits in North Carolina. The majority of the strawberry crop in North Carolina is grown in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for producing high-quality strawberries. Strawberries are typically in season in North Carolina from late April through early June. This means the peak season for strawberries only lasts about 2 months at the most. So, if you fancy strawberries, you best get your hands on them quickly!
- Cherries – Cherries are in season in North Carolina from late May through June. While not as widely grown in the state as strawberries or blueberries, cherry orchards can be found in the western part of the state. The climate and soil conditions in this region are well-suited for growing sweet and juicy cherries. When selecting cherries, look for firm, plump fruit with a deep, rich color and bright green stems for freshness.
- Loquats – Loquats have a unique flavor that is often described as a combination of apricot, peach, and citrus – and they resemble a combination of each of these fruits as well! Loquats are small, yellow-orange fruits that can be found around the coastal regions of North Carolina. If you’re interested in trying loquats, look for them at your local farmers’ market in March.
What Fruit is in Season Now: Summer Edition
- Blueberries – Blueberries are another popular fruit that is in season in North Carolina from mid-June until early August – right in the middle of summer. The state is the seventh-largest producer of blueberries in the country and is known for its high-quality crop. When selecting blueberries, look for firm and plump berries with a deep blue color. You can enjoy blueberries fresh as a healthy snack, or use them in a variety of recipes such as smoothies, pies, muffins, and pancakes.
- Peaches – Although Georgia holds the title for the best peaches in the world, if you look for peaches at just the right time in North Carolina, you can experience a delectable peach that incites your taste buds. The prime season for peaches in North Carolina is very short, however, and is only throughout the month of July. One of our favorite ways to enjoy peaches is by making a fresh mango peach salsa and serving it alongside freshly baked salmon.
- Blackberries – Blackberries are native to four continents: Asia, Europe, South America, and North America. These seedy berries demand to be eaten at the height of their season, and for those of you in North Carolina, that’s throughout the month of July.
What Fruit is in Season Now: Fall Edition
- Apples – Western North Carolina is the main hub for apples as cities such as Hendersonville host the annual apple festival each year. The crisp, sweet, and juicy apples attract thousands of tourists to the state every year! You can shop for a wide range of apple varieties at the Raleigh Farmer’s Market starting in late August through November.
- Figs – If you’ve never had the pleasure of enjoying a fresh fig, you’re in for a treat. Fresh figs are exponentially better than dried figs as their sweet and juicy flavor profile shines through. You’ll find these readily available in August-October. But be quick – these tender fruits are a crowd favorite and go quickly!
- Pears – Pears are the fifth most produced fruit in the world! From August through September, you can enjoy pears at their peak in North Carolina.
Other Benefits of The Farmers’ Market
Visiting a farmers’ market is a great way to experience the seasonal bounty of North Carolina’s local produce. The farmers’ market is not only a great place to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, but it’s also a unique experience where you can interact with local farmers and producers, learn about their growing practices and try new varieties of produce.
One of the benefits of shopping at a farmers market is that you can talk directly to the farmers who grow the produce. You can ask them about their growing practices and learn about the specific varieties of fruits and vegetables they grow. You can also ask for cooking and storage tips to ensure that you get the most out of your purchases.
Many farmers’ markets also offer other local products, such as honey, cheese, bread, and meats. These products are often made using locally sourced ingredients and are of high quality.
Visiting a farmers’ market is also a great way to support local agriculture and help sustain local farming communities. By buying directly from the farmers, you can help them earn a fair price for their products, which helps to keep local farms in business.
Visit N.C. Seafood at The State Farmers’ Market in Raleigh
Not only is there a wide variety of fresh produce available at farmers’ markets in North Carolina, but you can also enjoy delicious, seafood platters at N.C. Seafood Restaurant. We offer a variety of seafood platters that are made with fresh seafood, including fresh fish, shrimp, oysters, and clams. Whether you’re in the mood for classic seafood dishes like popcorn shrimp platters, or something more unique like fresh clam chowder, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds at N.C. Seafood Restaurant.
In addition to the delicious food, dining at N.C. Seafood Restaurant at the State Farmers Market offers a unique atmosphere. You can enjoy your meal in a casual setting while taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling farmers market. So, if you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a unique dining experience, be sure to check out this North Carolina gem!
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