Seasonal eating in the winter is the most challenging for a lot of us, especially if you live in cold climates. That doesn’t mean it can’t be done, though! There might not be much of anything growing in the dead of winter, but it’s still possible to eat seasonally! Here’s how!

Eating seasonally is a great way to improve your health, save money, and live more sustainably. In this guide, you will learn about the best foods to eat during winter. You will also learn how to cook them in ways that are both healthy and delicious!

We’ve talked about the benefits of seasonal eating here and shared guides for the other seasons.

• Spring Seasonal Eating
• Summer Seasonal Eating
• Fall Seasonal Eating

5 Ways it’s Possible to Continue Seasonal Eating in Winter

One of my favorite books, Animal, Vegetable Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver, documents the author’s family’s journey toward eating only locally grown foods. They started their journey in January in a cold climate, and I was inspired by her candid discussion of the difficulties. If you haven’t read the book, I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.

If you want to start seasonal eating even in the winter, here’s what I recommend:

1. Embracing winter vegetables
2. Understanding which fruits are in season in winter
3. Shop intentionally – skip those fruits and vegetables that are obviously out of season and instead by winter fruits and vegetables.
4. Planning your garden around the seasons so you can harvest vegetables that store well
5. Seeking out recipes that focus on winter fruits and vegetables

So What Are In-Season Winter Vegetables?

Winter vegetables tend to store well over winter to last until the spring harvest has arrived. They are called winter vegetables, as they can survive frosts and snows, and most frosts will make the vegetables sweeter. Many can even stay in the garden under blankets of snow which will protect them for the winter season.

Brussels Sprouts

These little vegetables are packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K. They can be roasted, stir-fried, or added to salads. They’re absolutely delicious when cooked with butter and garlic.

Buttercup Squash

Buttercup Squash is a type of winter squash, buttercup squash is a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. It can be baked, roasted, or pureed into soups. It’s low in carbohydrates, so many people love to use it as a healthy substitute for mashed potatoes.

Cabbage

Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. It can be eaten raw or cooked. When cooked, it can be boiled, steamed, or stir-fried. One of the most popular ways to eat cabbage is in sauerkraut, a fermented food that’s great for your gut health.

Kale

Kale is a nutrient-rich leafy green that can be eaten raw, cooked, or used as a garnish. When cooked, it can be boiled, steamed, or stir-fried. Kale is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.

Leeks

Leeks are a member of the onion family. They have a milder flavor than onions and can be used in soups, salads, and other dishes. Depending on where you live, you may be able to find wild leeks.

Sweet Potatoes

A type of root vegetable, sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. They can be baked, roasted, or mashed. Even though they taste sweet, they have a lower glycemic index than other types of potatoes, so they won’t cause your blood sugar to spike.

Turnips

A type of root vegetable, turnips are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. They can be eaten raw or cooked. When cooked, they can be boiled, roasted, or mashed. Turnips are often used in soups and stews. You can also pickle them!

Winter Squash

There are many different types of winter squash, including acorn squash, butternut squash, and pumpkin. They’re all good sources of fiber and vitamins A and C. Winter squash can be baked, roasted, or pureed into soups.

What are In-Season Winter Fruits?

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C. They can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in recipes. When stored properly, citrus fruits will last for months.

Dates

Dates are sweet and nutritious fruit. They can be eaten fresh or dried and are often used in recipes. Dates are a good source of fiber, as well as vitamins A and C.

Figs

Figs are also a sweet and nutritious fruit that can be eaten fresh or dried. They’re a good source of fiber, as well as vitamins A and C. Figs are often used in recipes such as pies, cakes, and cookies.

Kiwi

Kiwi is a great source of vitamin C. It can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in recipes. Kiwi is a versatile fruit that can be used in sweet or savory dishes.

Pomegranates

Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, pomegranates are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be eaten raw or used in recipes. They are popular in juices, cocktails, and desserts. To eat them, you’ll need to open the fruit and remove the seeds.

Getting the Most Out of Your Winter Garden

Yes, you can grow food in the winter! Check out this guide to learn how to get the most out of your winter garden.

Winter is a great time to grow leafy greens indoors, like kale and spinach. These greens are packed with nutrients and can be used in salads, soups, and more. You can also grow root vegetables, like carrots and potatoes. These vegetables can be roasted, mashed, or added to soups.

Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage are also great for winter gardening. They can be used to flavor soups, stews, and other dishes.

Depending on where you live, you might be able to grow some food outdoors. Some plants, like kale and carrots, can withstand cold temperatures. Just make sure to cover them with a tarp or frost blanket if there’s a chance of frost. If you have a greenhouse or raised beds, you have even more options for winter gardening.

This winter, you can also try garden planning to get a head start on growing other foods for seasonal eating.

Seasonal Recipes for Winter

Ready to get cooking? Check out these seasonal recipes for winter:

• Citrus Salad with Caramelized Pecans & Pomegranates
• Creamy Lemon Caper Salmon Pasta
• Skinny Chicken with Artichokes & Lemon
• Lemon Broccoli Farfalle with Chicken
• Lemon Tea Bread
• Easy Lemon Chicken for the Crock Pot
• Pomegranate Orange Bread
• Pineapple, Orange, & Kiwi Smoothie
• Sourdough Stuffing Recipe with Roasted Red Onion, Kale, and Sausage
• Family Friendly Air Fryer Sausage and Potatoes
• Sheet Pan Chicken with Brussels Sprouts & Sweet Potatoes
• Crockpot Sausage and Cabbage {Gluten Free}

Tips for Winter Seasonal Eating

1. Enjoy warming foods and spices to feel more comfortable in the cold. Herbs like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves can add flavor and warmth to soups, stews, and other dishes. Eating them will actually improve your circulation, so you feel warmer.

2. Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet. Good nutrition is important for a well-functioning immune system.

3. Experiment with new recipes. There are so many ways to use seasonal fruits and vegetables. Trying new recipes is a great way to find new favorites.

4. Stock up on seasonal produce when it is plentiful and inexpensive.

5. Keep your kitchen well-stocked with staples such as butter, oils, flour, and sugar.

6. Bake foods in your oven often – it will help keep your house warmer.

Are you interested in seasonal eating? What's your most pressing question about eating seasonally in the winter?