New England State of Mind

For me, the joy of living in New England is all about the change of seasons. And, in my desire to eat more locally, this means that what I’m eating also reflects this natural cycle.

Spring. Fresh, new growth. There is lots of green with things like fresh herbs, lettuce, swiss chard, kale and asparagus. And, don’t forget the rhubarb.

Summer. Ingredient explosion. My plate is filled with things like: berries, cherries, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, summer squash, corn and so much more!

Fall. Winding down and going warm. Autumn harvest foods include apples, pears, carrots, potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, onions and garlic!

Winter. Slow and warm. These are foods that take longer to cook. Many of the Fall finds are still around but you also have winter squashes, parsnips, and turnips. Maple syrup may be available year-round, but it is in winter when nature allows us this harvest.

All in all it’s amazing how my body craves whatever is in season at each phase of the calendar. I admit in summer and fall it’s a breeze to be a New England locavore. Winter is my biggest local food hurdle.

Eating fresh, seasonal produce is a good way to connect with the rhythms of the natural world. Not only is it delicious, but purchasing locally grown and seasonal produce is usually wallet-friendly too.

Want to know what’s in season in your state? Check out What’s Fresh Near You from the NRDC. If you’re on the go and have an iPhone download the Locavore App. It auto-detects where you are, shows you fruits and veggies currently in season, gives you farmer’s markets nearby and links to recipes

This is cross-posted as part of the New England Bloggers birthday carnival. See all of the participants in this blog carnival at Thoughts From An Evil Overlord.