Summer's Bounty in the Prairie State: A Guide to Illinois' In-Season Fruits (Because Nobody Likes a Mealy Peach)
Ah, June in Illinois. The days are stretching longer, the fireflies are putting on a light show, and your stomach is starting to rumble for something a little more exciting than the leftover casserole that's been chilling in your fridge since, well, let's not dwell on the past.
This, my friends, is prime time to hit up the farmer's market and get your hands on some fresh, local, and bursting-with-flavor fruits. But with all the options out there, you might be wondering: what's actually in season right now? Don't worry, we've got you covered.
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| What Fruits Are In Season Right Now In Illinois |
Stone Fruit Smackdown: Peaches vs. Plums vs. Cherries (It's a Tie, Fight Me)
June is like the heavyweight championship fight of stone fruits in Illinois. We're talking peaches so juicy they'll drip down your chin, nectarines as smooth as a baby's behind, plums that are sweet-tart perfection, and cherries that will have you popping pits like a champ (just be careful not to swallow them!).
Pro Tip: Feeling fancy? Try grilling these stone fruits for a warm, caramelized treat that'll blow your taste buds away.
The Berry Patch Bonanza: Strawberries and Beyond!
June isn't just about the stone fruits – it's also strawberry season! Picture this: a big bowl of fresh-picked strawberries, still warm from the sun, with a dollop of whipped cream. Need I say more? But wait, there's more! You might also find blueberries, perfect for muffins or pancakes, and even some early-bird raspberries ready to be snatched up.
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Illinois is a top producer of blueberries? That's right, our state knows how to grow some seriously delicious berries!
Don't Forget the Classics: Apples and Melons (Because Sometimes You Just Want a Classic)
Okay, so maybe apples aren't exactly what you think of for summer fruits. But fear not, apple lovers! While the peak apple season hits a little later in the year, you might start to see some early varieties popping up at the market in June.
And let's not forget about melons! Watermelons, cantaloupes, and even some honeydew are all in season right now, offering a refreshing and hydrating way to beat the summer heat.
Word to the Wise: When picking a watermelon, give it a good thump. If it sounds hollow, you know it's ripe and ready to eat!
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
How to Find the Freshest Fruits?
Hit up your local farmer's market! This is the best way to get fruits that are locally grown, ripe, and bursting with flavor.
FAQ: Mastering the Art of Seasonal Fruit
How to pick the perfect peach?
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Give it a gentle squeeze – it should be slightly soft but not mushy.
How to store berries?
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
Wash them right before you eat them, and store them unwashed in the refrigerator in a single layer.
How to tell if a watermelon is ripe?
Thump it! It should sound hollow.
How to cut a mango?
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
Google it – trust me, there's a specific way to do it, and it'll save you a lot of frustration.
How to use up leftover fruit?
Make a smoothie! Freeze them for later! Bake a delicious pie! The possibilities are endless!
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