Most fruits and veggies are readily available in summer, but the same is not true in the colder months. Of course, in this day and age, all you have to do is swing by your nearest grocery store to pick up just about any produce your heart desires.

But if you prefer to buy fresh and/or local then your options are a bit more limited. Even though melon and berries are out of season, there are still plenty of winter fruits (and veggies) that pack just as much flavor and nutrition.

While some seeds can’t handle the cold, these guys are in their prime throughout the winter months. Not to mention that several are easy enough to grow in your very own backyard. I currently have kale potted on my porch and my neighbor has a thriving persimmon tree. With so many other accessible winter crops, I hardly even miss my summertime favorites.

Take advantage of these seasonal foods while they’re at their best!

Fruits:

Apples

Citrus (oranges, clementines, kumquats, grapefruit, pummelo, lemons, limes)

Cranberries

Dates

Figs

Grapes

Kiwi

Pears

Persimmons

Veggies:

Beets

Broccoli

Brussels Sprouts

Cabbage

Carrots

Cauliflower

Kale

Parsnips

Spinach

Winter Squash (Butternut, kabocha, buttercup, hubbard, spaghetti, sugar pumpkin, acorn, etc. Click here for varieties and how to cook them)

Sweet Potatoes

Turnips

Please keep in mind that this compilation is general for all of North America. Of course, some warm, fertile places like Florida, California or Mexico have more availability than areas with colder climates. Just keep in mind what grows naturally where you live for optimum taste and price!

Related: Essential Spring and Summer Vegan Grocery List

Organic v. Local – Which is more important?

Also by Quincy: Birth Control for the Health Conscious

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Photo: Maja Dumat via Flickr; Peaceful Dumpling