Are you keeping your fridge fresh? We don’t mean baking-soda-in-the-back-corner fresh. We mean stocked with high-quality, seasonal fruits and veggies that add a fresh bite to your meals. Over at Basket, we try swapping out our go-to produce choices for in-season picks. And while February might be the shortest month, it certainly has no shortage of in-season fruits and vegetables.
If you’re looking to give your fridge an overhaul, check out these must-have February foods.
Brighten Up Your Winter with Citrus
If you immediately correlate citrus drinks, fruit spritzers, and bright zest with the warmer summer months, we wouldn’t blame you. However, you might be surprised to learn that most citrus fruits are actually at their peak during the winter months. In fact, during the month of February, a plethora of citrus fruits are at their most ripe:
- Lemons
- Oranges
- Grapefruits
- Tangerines
- Clementines
These delicious fruits can be blended into refreshing smoothies or infused with your water for a healthy way to kick-start the month. You can toss them with some greens for an unconventional winter salad. Or, you could even use the bright flavors of lemons and tangerines to liven up a roast chicken. Simply rub the chicken with complementary herbs like rosemary and thyme, and stuff the cavity with lemon, tangerine, onion (also in-season in February), garlic, or whatever else you have on hand.
Plus, did we mention that February is actually National Grapefruit Month? Celebrate by tossing one in your lunch box as a snack.
Stock Up on Winter Greens
Do you still think greens are boring? Well, my friend, you are sadly mistaken. Ditch the limp lettuce for any of these in-season February greens for a fresh salad or side dish that will truly invigorate your taste buds:
- Kale
- Chard
- Arugula
- Collards
- Radicchio
If a raw salad really isn’t your thing, no worries. You can still take advantage of the amazing texture of these February foods by enjoying them cooked. Saute with a bit of olive oil, 3 to 4 cloves of garlic, and a dash of lemon juice. Just be sure to remove the stems and thick midribs from whichever type of greens you’re eating, and wash the leaves thoroughly.
Seasonal Side Dishes (or Entrees)
One of the easiest ways to save on groceries each month is by buying high-quality, hearty ingredients. While fresh produce might be a bit more expensive than canned or bagged goods, most last well when stored in the fridge and can be incorporated into breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, packing a big punch of nutrients and fiber, fresh vegetables like these can be prepared as a hearty side dish or as a main course:
- Turnips
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Sweet potatoes
- Brussels sprouts
Spice up your sweet potato with red pepper flakes or chili powder. Mash turnips with carrots for a creamy, healthier alternative to mashed potatoes. Or bake and blend cauliflower with eggs, bread crumbs, and spices to create your own meat-free cauliflower chicken nuggets.
Ultimately, your options with these in-season fruits and vegetables are absolutely endless. These February foods can provide your family with fresh flavor and their daily serving of vitamins for an affordable price, especially if you’re using a free price comparison tool like Basket to save on groceries each month. What are you waiting for? Keep your fridge fresh with these February foods today.
