Here’s one more, and it’s a delicious one:fresh produce.

The months of June through early September mark the largest growing season in the U.S.

This means that produce options are essentially endless.

Fresh fruit salad placed on wooden planks with a blurry ocean in the background.

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So, grab your summer grocery list, and let’s jump into all the peachy details.

Apples

You probably tend to associate apples with the first crisp days of autumn.

But, some apple varieties are early bloomers, hitting their peak in the middle of the summer.

apples and blueberries

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Then, later in the season, she recommends Rave Apples.

However, it deserves a mention as one of the absolute best herbs for summer.

The leafy green plant isnative to areas of Africa and Asiabut also grows in the Mediterranean region.

fresh basil

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As such, the best time to shop for basil bunches is from June all the way through September.

And, Shales explains that dark sweet cherries specifically are the true celebrity of the season.

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Meanwhile, about75% of the tart cherry supply comes from Michigan.

bell peppers yellow red green orange

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Cucumbers

Cucumbers are another fruit synonymous with summerthat means it’s officially crunch time!

From May to August, not only can you find the best prices for the bumpy, green cylinders.

You’ll also experience them in their finest form featuring plump builds, crisp skins, and refreshing flavor.

bowl of fresh berries that includes strawberries raspberries and blueberries

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The Freshfarm team additionally recommends pickling them to enjoy all year round.

Or, it’s possible for you to even use them for non-food purposes.

It’s all a little bit overwhelming.

cherries in a bowl

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Eggplants are in season from July through October but are known to strut their best stuff in August.

However, you could also branch out with options like white, Italian, or even graffiti eggplants.

Well, that’s a topic for a different day.

corn on cob

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So, snap to it and get that green this summer!

But, summer is the peak season for most mango varieties.

Melons

“Don’t miss out on melons in the summer either!”

cucumbers

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advises Freshfarm’s Scalise.

Fully ripe, flavorful melons will be solid and even feel heavy for their size.

But, this season you should jump on the okra bandwagon wherever you’re able to find it.

raw eggplant in basket

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And, as a warm season selection, it reaches its prime palatability and tenderness in June and July.

you might certainly eat okra raw or just baked or roasted.

It is also commonly thrown in soups and stews because it helps to thicken the broth.

green beans cutting board

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Shallots

Forget onions, right now your focus should be on shallots.

Watch out, though, they’ll still make your eyes water!

The ground-grown spinoffs tend to surface towards the end of the summer and into autumn.

slices of mango with chili flakes in a bowl

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This harvest season is when they’re at their freshest.

This specific grouping is actually quite plump.

And, guess what?

assorted melons

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Almost every single one thrives in the summer months from June through September.

“Nothing says summer quite like a freshly picked peach,” says Scalise.

Stemlit’s Shales adds that August is also the month when many states harvest their peaches.

raw green organic okra

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Summer Squash

The name of this veggie makes it an obvious choice this time of year.

Meanwhile, winter squash has a tough rind that protects it from cold conditions.

This protective layer is commonly peeled and removed before cooking or eating.

shallots in a bowl

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you might target yellow straightneck squash or zucchinistwo of the most popular choices.

Or, experiment with some lesser-known varieties this season.

“Tomatoes are really the star of the show in the summer,” says Scalise.

pitted peaches

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You’ll start to see tomatoes in May all the way through October in some climates.”

gold bar squash

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heirloom tomatoes

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