As the summer heat begins to fade away, autumn brings a new bounty of fresh and flavorful produce. September is the month when the harvest season starts to peak, giving us some of the most delicious and nutritious foods of the year.
From juicy fruits like apples and pears to crisp vegetables like squashes and pumpkins, there is an abundance of seasonal produce to choose from. Whether you’re planning a fall feast or just looking to add some variety to your diet, here’s a guide to what’s in season in September.
September is a great month for fresh produce. Some of the best fruits and vegetables in season during September include apples, grapes, pears, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and winter squash. You can also find delicious greens such as arugula, broccoli, and spinach. Don’t forget to grab some Brussels sprouts, carrots, and cauliflower too! Make the most of the season by incorporating these fresh ingredients into your meals.
What Food is in Season in September?
September marks the end of summer and the beginning of fall. As the weather cools down, so does the variety of fresh produce available. However, there are still plenty of delicious fruits and vegetables in season during this month. Here are some of the foods you should be looking out for:
1. Apples
Apples are at their peak during September. There are many different varieties to choose from, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Whether you like your apples sweet or tart, crunchy or soft, there’s an apple out there for you. Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, and are perfect for snacking on or using in baked goods.
If you’re looking for ways to use up all those apples, try making applesauce, apple pie, or apple cider. You can also slice them up and add them to your favorite salads.
2. Grapes
Grapes are another fruit that’s in season during September. They come in many different colors and varieties, and are a good source of vitamins C and K. Grapes are great for snacking on, but they can also be used in a variety of recipes.
Try adding grapes to your morning smoothie, or use them to top off your favorite yogurt. You can also roast them with some honey and cinnamon for a sweet and savory side dish.
3. Pears
Pears are at their best during the fall months, and September is no exception. There are many different varieties of pears, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Pears are a good source of fiber and vitamin C, and are delicious when eaten raw or cooked.
For a simple and delicious dessert, try poaching pears in red wine and serving them with a dollop of whipped cream. You can also add sliced pears to your favorite salads, or use them to make a savory pear and goat cheese tart.
4. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a fall staple, and they’re at their best during September. They’re a good source of fiber and vitamin A, and are delicious when roasted, mashed, or baked. Sweet potatoes are also great for adding a pop of color to your favorite dishes.
Try making sweet potato fries, or add mashed sweet potatoes to your favorite soup or stew. You can also use sweet potatoes to make a delicious and healthy breakfast hash.
5. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a fall favorite, and they’re in season during September. They’re a good source of fiber and vitamin C, and are delicious when roasted or sautéed. Brussels sprouts are also great for adding a healthy green to your plate.
Try roasting Brussels sprouts with some olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or sautéing them with some garlic and lemon juice. You can also shred them and add them to your favorite salads.
6. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is another vegetable that’s in season during September. It’s a good source of fiber and vitamin C, and is delicious when roasted, mashed, or used as a substitute for rice or potatoes. Cauliflower is also great for adding a healthy white to your plate.
Try making cauliflower rice, or roast it with some garlic and parmesan cheese. You can also use cauliflower to make a healthy and delicious pizza crust.
7. Broccoli
Broccoli is a fall vegetable that’s in season during September. It’s a good source of fiber and vitamin C, and is delicious when steamed, roasted, or sautéed. Broccoli is also great for adding a healthy green to your plate.
Try roasting broccoli with some olive oil and garlic, or sautéing it with some lemon juice and red pepper flakes. You can also add steamed broccoli to your favorite pasta dishes.
8. Pumpkins
Pumpkins are a fall staple, and they’re at their best during September. They’re a good source of fiber and vitamin A, and are delicious when roasted, mashed, or used in baked goods. Pumpkins are also great for adding a pop of color to your plate.
Try making pumpkin soup, or roast pumpkin with some cinnamon and honey for a sweet and savory side dish. You can also use pumpkin to make a healthy and delicious pumpkin pie smoothie.
9. Squash
Squash is another fall vegetable that’s in season during September. There are many different varieties of squash, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Squash is a good source of fiber and vitamin A, and is delicious when roasted, mashed, or used in soups and stews.
Try roasting acorn squash with some maple syrup and thyme, or sautéing butternut squash with some sage and brown butter. You can also use squash to make a healthy and delicious spaghetti squash casserole.
10. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a fall favorite, and they’re in season during September. There are many different varieties of mushrooms, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Mushrooms are a good source of fiber and vitamin D, and are delicious when sautéed, roasted, or used in soups and stews.
Try sautéing shiitake mushrooms with some soy sauce and garlic, or roasting portobello mushrooms with some balsamic vinegar and rosemary. You can also use mushrooms to make a healthy and delicious mushroom and barley soup.
In conclusion, there are many delicious and healthy foods in season during September. Whether you’re looking for sweet fruits or hearty vegetables, there’s something out there for everyone. So head to your local farmers market or grocery store and stock up on these seasonal favorites.
Freequently Asked Questions
What food is in season in September?
In September, many fruits and vegetables are in season. Some of the most popular ones include:
1. Apples: There are many different varieties of apples that are in season in September, including Honeycrisp, Gala, and Granny Smith. These fruits are perfect for making pies, sauces, and other delicious treats.
2. Grapes: Grapes are another popular fruit that is in season in September. They are great for snacking, making jams and jellies, and even for making wine.
3. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a staple in many dishes, and they are in season in September. They are perfect for making sauces, salads, and even for canning.
4. Squash: There are many different types of squash that are in season in September, including butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash. These vegetables are perfect for roasting, grilling, or making soups.
5. Peppers: Sweet and hot peppers are in season in September. They are great for adding flavor and spice to dishes, and they are perfect for roasting, grilling, or sautéing.
What are some recipes that use seasonal produce in September?
There are countless recipes that use seasonal produce in September. Here are a few examples:
1. Apple Crisp: This classic dessert is made with fresh apples, cinnamon, sugar, and butter. It’s perfect for cool fall evenings.
2. Grilled Squash: Simply brush some olive oil and herbs onto slices of squash and grill them until they’re tender and slightly charred.
3. Tomato and Basil Salad: This simple salad is made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a great side dish for any meal.
4. Roasted Pepper and Tomato Soup: This hearty soup is made with roasted peppers and tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chicken broth. It’s perfect for cooler days.
5. Grape and Cheese Platter: Simply arrange fresh grapes and cheese on a platter for a delicious and easy appetizer.
In conclusion, September is a month that brings a bountiful harvest of fresh and delicious produce. From crisp apples and juicy pears to hearty root vegetables and sweet corn, there is no shortage of seasonal delights to enjoy. Whether you’re a home cook looking to create delicious meals or a food enthusiast seeking new and exciting flavors, there are plenty of options to explore this month.
So, if you’re wondering what food is in season in September, the answer is simple: just about everything! Take advantage of this vibrant and colorful time of year by visiting your local farmers’ market or grocery store to stock up on the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.
In short, September is a month of abundance when it comes to fresh, seasonal food. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, spicy or mild, there are plenty of options to choose from. So, why not embrace the flavors of the season and try something new today? Your taste buds will thank you!
