What's in season: Winter fruits and vegetables

There’s something deeply comforting about cooking with ingredients that are at their best right now. Choosing seasonal produce not only supports local farmers and cuts down on environmental impact, but also means better flavour, fresher textures, and more affordable prices.

Winter in South Africa (June through August) offers a rich variety of fruits and vegetables that are perfect for hearty, wholesome meals and cosy kitchen moments. Whether you’re whipping up a rustic vegetable soup, baking a fruit crumble, or simply enjoying a citrusy snack, there’s plenty to play with.

What to pick up this winter:

Fruits

Think sweet, tangy, and refreshing. Citrus fruits are the stars of the season, bursting with vitamin C and sunshine flavour.

Naartjies, oranges, lemons, and limes are perfect for juicing, zesting into bakes, or brightening up roasted veggies.

Avocados are at their peak—ideal for creamy toppings, dressings, or just spooned with a sprinkle of salt.

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Apples, pears, and persimmons add a soft sweetness to everything from salads to stews.

You’ll also find kiwis, passion fruit, pineapples, strawberries, pawpaw, dates, and melon—great for smoothies or snacking.

Vegetables

This is the time to lean into earthy, nourishing veg that holds up well in slow-cooked dishes.

Carrots, beets, parsnips, and turnips are perfect for roasting or adding depth to soups.

Pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and potatoes bring warmth and comfort to the plate, whether mashed, baked, or pureed.

Broccoli, kale, spinach, and Brussels sprouts offer a pop of green and plenty of nutrients.

Add flavour and body with onions, leeks, and mushrooms, and don’t overlook radishes, peas, asparagus, Jerusalem artichokes, and watercress for a bit of crunch or peppery bite.

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Cooking with the seasons means making the most of what nature’s offering right now. So, take a walk through your local market or grocer and let winter’s produce inspire what goes on your plate. You’ll taste the difference.

ALSO SEE: WINTER HERBS TO GROW FOR YOUR KITCHEN GARDEN