Oregon’s Summer Harvest

It’s summer time in the Pacific Northwest which means sunnier days, warmer weather, and a time for exploring the fresh, delicious harvest that local farms have to offer. Fortunately, our close partnerships with Oregon farmers make it possible and convenient for you to take home the highest quality, locally grown and organically grown produce available while also supporting Oregon’s economy. In this guide, we’ll highlight the benefits of eating seasonal fruits and vegetables, shed light on the stars of Oregon’s summer produce, and share insider tips on how to choose and store these summer treasures. Let’s dive in and uncover the delights of summer fruits and vegetables in Oregon.

The Perks of Seasonal Produce

The nutritional richness of Oregon produce harvested in their peak season is a compelling reason to load up your shopping cart with these fresh goodies. Fruits and vegetables plucked at the right time are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By choosing these, you’re not just relishing delicious food, but also fueling your body with the best nutrition.

When you buy locally-sourced produce from Market of Choice, you’re supporting your local farmers and reducing the environmental impact of long-distance transportation. This helps maintain agricultural diversity and preserve our farmlands.
Seasonal produce also contributes to environmental wellness. These fruits and vegetables naturally ripen under the ideal conditions, eliminating the need for artificial ripening techniques and reducing our carbon footprint.

And let’s not forget the culinary adventure that awaits with each season’s unique produce. The summer fruits and vegetables in Oregon offer a range of flavors, from luscious berries during the berry season in Oregon to crunchy cucumbers and sweet corn. This variety enhances your meals and promotes a balanced and diverse diet.

Oregon’s Summer Fruit Stars

The summer sun in Oregon brings forth a variety of juicy fruits. From colorful berries to aromatic stone fruits, here’s a quick rundown of Oregon’s standout summer fruits:

Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants and packed with flavor, these tiny powerhouses make a nutritious and delightful summer pick. Beginning in June, look for delicious blues from our partners at Kiger Island Farm in Corvallis, as well as organic blueberries from Mohawk River Farm in Marcola.

Try this recipe for Blueberry and Avocado Gluten-Free Muffins

Raspberries: Intense in color and flavor, Oregon raspberries are a summer essential. These fiber-rich berries add a tangy sweetness to desserts and are perfect for jams, pies, or to eat fresh off the vine. This June check out our produce aisle for red-ripe raspberries from our partners at Riverwood Orchard and Farm in Monmouth.

Try this recipe for Berry Pavlova

Peaches: Northwest peaches are a summer pleasure not to be missed. Known for their juicy sweetness, peaches are great in desserts like peach cobbler, topping your favorite ice cream, or to simply sink your teeth into (being wary of the pit, of course). Look for delicious, ripe peaches in mid-July from our friends at Maryhill Orchard.

Try this recipe for Grilled Peaches with Charred Cabbage & Chèvre

Oregon’s Preferred Summer Vegetables

Summer in Oregon is a celebration of fresh and delicious fruits and vegetables. Let’s take a closer look at some of the popular vegetables that thrive in Oregon’s summer climate:

Tomatoes: From juicy slicers to flavorful cherry tomatoes, there’s a variety of tomato for every palate. They’re perfect for salads, sandwiches, and sauces and even grilling. This July, look for Oregon Star Tomatoes from Flamingo Ridge Organics in Gaston. We also source amazing tomatoes from Groundworks Farm on River Road in Eugene.

Try this recipe for Heirloom Tomato Panzanella Salad with Mozzarella

Cucumbers: Oregon’s cool nights and warm days yield crisp, juicy and refreshing cucumbers. Enjoy this summer essential in salads, infused in water or pickled. Look for cucumbers from Groundworks Farm in our produce aisle.

Try these refreshing juice and smoothie recipes

Salad Greens & More: For more than ten years, we have been sourcing a wide range of vegetables from Gathering Together Farm in Philomath. All summer you can expect to see salad greens, carrots, beets, leeks, tomatoes, herbs, cucumbers, fava beans, garlic, and broccoli from this top grower in our produce aisle.

Picking and Preserving Summer Produce

To relish the freshness and flavor of Oregon’s summer fruits and vegetables, it’s crucial to pick and store them correctly. Here are a few tips:

Choosing ripe fruits and vegetables: Look for vibrant colors, firmness, and a pleasant aroma. Fruits like peaches, berries, and melons should slightly yield to a gentle squeeze but not feel too soft. For vegetables, choose those with crisp leaves and sturdy stems.

Preserving for freshness: Proper storage can extend the freshness of your summer harvest. Most fruits should be left at room temperature until ripe, then refrigerated to slow down the ripening process. Generally, vegetables should be refrigerated from the start. Keep them in separate compartments to prevent cross-contamination.

Cleaning and handling: Remove any dirt, bacteria or pesticides from your summer fruits and vegetables before enjoying. Rinse under cool running water, scrubbing gently if necessary. For delicate berries, use a colander to prevent bruising. Remember to dry them completely before storage or use.

Getting Creative in the Kitchen with Summer Produce: Now that you have your fresh summer bounty, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. From refreshing salads to vibrant stir-fries and flavorful salsas, the possibilities are endless. Be sure to visit our recipes page for a more comprehensive view of recipes with summer produce.