As the vineyards change colors and the autumn air grows crisp, Napa supermarkets are brimming with delicious fall fruits and vegetables! What better way to celebrate the season than by indulging in its fresh, seasonal produce? At Browns Valley Market, we’re excited to share the bounty of fall with you and proud to offer a large selection of the finest seasonal produce Napa Valley has to offer.
From sweet figs and juicy pears to hearty squashes and colorful leafy greens, read on to discover some of our favorite fruits and vegetables in season this fall.
Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables You’ll Find at Your Napa Grocery Store This Fall
Whether you’re cooking a hearty stew or baking cozy fall treats, eating local, seasonal produce offers numerous benefits. When you shop locally, you’re directly supporting the farmers and businesses in your community, helping to strengthen the local economy. Plus, locally grown fruits and vegetables often travel shorter distances and are harvested at their peak ripeness, ensuring optimal flavor and nutritional value.
So, what’s in season this fall?
Figs
Often described as a blend of strawberries and dates, figs have a sweet and slightly tart flavor complemented by a soft and chewy texture. When ripe, figs are a deep purple or brown color. They are a good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants.
Figs can be enjoyed as a nutritious snack on their own, or added to salads, yogurt, or desserts like tarts and jams. You can also caramelize them in a skillet or roast them in a pan with honey and balsamic vinegar for a sweet and savory fall side dish.
California figs are typically in season from late summer through November.
Persimmons
Persimmons are some of the sweetest fruits around, and with their slightly caramel-like and spiced flavor, they’re perfect for fall! When ripe, persimmons have a bright orange color and a soft texture. These anti-inflammatory fruits are brimming with antioxidants and are a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
Persimmons are commonly used in preserves, jams, or baked goods. Try using them as a substitute the next time you bake pumpkin bread, and be sure to snack on them fresh, too!
California persimmons are in season from September through December.
Pears
Pears are a classic fall fruit known for their juicy sweetness and crisp texture. They are available in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, and red. When ripe, pears have a slightly soft feel and a sweet aroma. They are a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
Pears are versatile fruits that can be enjoyed on their own as a snack and in both savory and sweet dishes. They are incredibly delicious when baked into cozy autumn desserts or roasted with honey.
In California, pears are generally in season from July through December.
Broccoli Rabe (Rapini)
Broccoli rabe, also known as rapini, is a leafy green vegetable with a slightly bitter, peppery flavor. It has tender stems, and vibrant green leaves with a firm texture, and is a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium.
Broccoli rabe can be prepared in a variety of ways. It can be steamed, sautéed, or roasted. For a delicious side dish, try sautéing broccoli rabe with garlic and olive oil. It can also be added to pasta dishes, soups, and stews.
Broccoli Rabe is in season in California from September through May.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a member of the cabbage family. This fall veggie is known for its firm texture, bright green color, and nutty and earthy flavoring that can be slightly bitter to some. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Brussels sprouts are a staple in many fall dishes and are often roasted, which brings out their sweetness. They are delicious when paired with bacon and your favorite local cheese or added to any fall salad.
In Northern California, brussels sprouts are in season from September through May.
Winter Squash
Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory dishes, California winter squash varieties offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the fall harvest. These versatile vegetables are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with minerals, vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
Winter squash has an outer rind or skin that is often green, orange, or yellow with yellow/orange flesh on the inside. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with their own unique flavor profiles. Some of the most popular winter squash include:
- Butternut squash
- Acorn squash
- Spaghetti squash
- Kabocha squash
- Delicata squash
- And more
Roasted, pureed into soup, or stuffed with savory fillings, there are countless ways to incorporate winter squash into your meals.
California winter squash varieties are at their seasonal peak in October through February.
Find Fresh Seasonal Produce at Browns Valley Market
By choosing seasonal produce from Browns Valley Market, you’re not only supporting our community but also enjoying the freshest, most delicious fruits and vegetables available. As always, our friendly staff is happy to answer any questions you have and help you find the perfect seasonal ingredients for your favorite fall recipes.
So come visit us today and discover the vibrant flavors of Napa Valley!
Please remember that all seasonal produce in Napa supermarkets will vary depending on the year’s weather trends and growing conditions.
