Southern California is known for its robust agricultural landscape and is responsible for 80% of all produce grown in the U.S. With average temperatures rarely dropping below 50 degrees in the winter months, it is a great place to cultivate a wide variety of produce year-round. Some fruits and vegetables actually thrive during a winter harvest. Here is a list that we have collected at Fitness Kitchen LA of in-season crops that taste good, and are good for you.
Beets – a delicious root vegetable, beets are a great source of fiber, vitamin B9, magnesium, and iron. Try roasted or pickled.
Belgian Endive – an excellent source of vitamins K and A. Prepare roasted or braised.
Broccoli – a family favorite, broccoli is high in potassium and vitamin C. Eat raw or incorporate into salad, soup, or entrées.
Brussels Sprouts – low in calories, but high in nutrients, brussels are a great part of a well-balanced diet.
Cabbage – cabbage is a great base for so many meals. Try it in a slaw, or as an additional to a stew.
Cauliflower – a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, cauliflower is one of those vegetables that is super versatile. Try it in a curry or add it to a salad.
Celery – Good ole’ crunchy celery. We like it dipped in peanut butter.
Citrus – Winter is when citrus really shines. Lemon, orange, clementine, grapefruit. All of these delicious citrus fruits are harvested and readily available in the winter.
Escarole – a tasty leaf vegetable similar to many other kinds of lettuces, escarole is high in fiber, calcium, iron, and vitamins A & C.
Fennel – a good source of fiber, fennel is an excellent addition to any combination of roasted veggies.
Horseradish – Excellent for the immune system, horseradish is packed full of flavor, but no fat.
Kale – A crowd favorite. The kale boom a few years ago introduced many to this leafy green, which is usually harvested in the fall and winter.
Kiwis – Delicious and full of vitamin C, kiwis are a sweet and tasty treat for all ages.
Leeks – A tame cousin of the onion, leeks are crunchy stalks that make a great addition to any soup or stew.
Sweet Potatoes – Full of vitamin and fiber, sweet potatoes are a wintertime staple. Roast whole, or try making mashed sweet potatoes.
Winter Squash – Several types of squash fit into the winter squash category. Experiment with different kinds and find out which is your favorite!
Fitness Kitchen LA is able to access some of the freshest food in the whole country, because of our close proximity to such a robust agricultural environment. Mix it up this winter, and try all of these delicious foods!