Choosing to eat locally grown, seasonal produce benefits your body, community, and our planet. In addition, nutrient profiles are at their highest levels and flavors are best at peak freshness. Seasonal produce is also more abundant and usually lower-priced than out-of-season fruit and veg, making it ideal for stocking up and preserving.

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Asian Pears

Asian pears are perfectly sweet, pale yellow fruits with a crisp texture. High in fiber and low in calories, they contain micronutrients that are important for bone, blood, and cardiovascular health. While they’re delicious to eat as is,  they make a great addition to a stir fry or salad.

LOCAL GROWER: Jacy Organic Farm, available at San Diego farmers’ markets.

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Broccoli Leaves

After eating broccoli crowns, you can munch on their often overlooked leaves, a nutritious and delectable part of the plant. Just two ounces provides a daily dose of both vitamins C and A. Broccoli leaves have a milder taste than florets and are suitable for smoothies, sautéing with garlic, or oven roasting into chips.

LOCAL GROWER: Sage Mountain Organic Farm available at San Diego farmers’ markets and local grocers

Beets

‍San Diego (Fallbrook) is the Avocado Capital of the World, and we grow seven different varieties. It’s the California-native Hass variety, however, that accounts for 95% of the crop volume. The green, pear-shaped superfood is loaded with healthy monounsaturated fat, fiber, and antioxidants and contains more potassium than a banana. The most San Diego way to enjoy an avocado would be in guacamole, or smeared on toast with sea salt and chile flakes.

LOCAL GROWER: Stehly Farms, available at Stehly Farms Market

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Medjool Dates

Nearby Coachella Valley, also known as the American Sahara, is recognized as the Date Capital of the World. The hot, arid desert and deep aquifers make the perfect growing environment for these stone fruits. The Medjool variety of dates are darker, larger, and have a caramel-like taste compared to others. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other essential vitamins and nutrients. Dates are a fantastic natural sweetener and are low-glycemic. Eat them raw, or stuff them with your favorite nut or seed butter.

LOCAL GROWER: Sun Date USA, available at Stehly Farms Market

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