At Thomas Cuisine, we believe that food is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience meant to be savored and enjoyed. That’s why we’re passionate about using fresh, seasonal produce in our dishes. In this blog post, we’re celebrating the bounty of spring and highlighting some of our favorite fruits and vegetables that are in season right now.
The Benefits of Eating Seasonally
There are many benefits to eating seasonally. First, seasonal produce is typically fresher and more flavorful. It’s also more nutrient-rich, as it hasn’t been stored for long periods. Additionally, eating seasonally supports local farmers and strengthens the economy by keeping food production within the community (1).
Spring Fruits and Vegetables
Some of our favorite spring fruits and vegetables include:
Asparagus
Asparagus is one of the first green vegetables to appear in spring. Primarily grown in Michigan, California, and Washington, it’s a nutrient powerhouse, providing vitamin K, copper, folate, iron, and thiamine (2). Asparagus is also a great source of fiber, promoting digestive health (3). Enjoy it fresh with hummus, steamed, or in stir-fries and noodle dishes.
Apricots
Apricots are considered a superfood due to their high nutrient density and low-calorie content. They are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your body from free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage healthy cells and contribute to diseases like cancer and heart disease (4).
Strawberries
Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, with just eight medium-sized berries providing your daily requirement. Vitamin C supports wound healing, acts as an anti-inflammatory, and helps the body manage stress caused by illness (6).
Cruciferous Vegetables (Cabbage, Broccoli, Radishes, Collard Greens)
Cruciferous vegetables contain sulforaphane, a phytochemical that has been shown to help prevent the spread of cancer. Research suggests that consuming one serving of cruciferous vegetables daily may reduce cancer progression by 50% (7).
Swiss Chard
This colorful leafy green is a good source of vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, iron, and fiber (8). It can be boiled, steamed, or roasted and adds a vibrant touch to any dish.
Turnips
Turnips, an ancient root vegetable, are rich in potassium, which is essential for nerve, muscle, and heart function. They also contain calcium, crucial for strong bones (9).
Tips for Enjoying Spring Produce
Here are a few ways to make the most of spring’s seasonal bounty:
- Visit your local farmers market: This is the best way to get fresh, seasonal produce at its peak.
- Get creative in the kitchen: Try adding new fruits and vegetables to your favorite recipes for a fresh twist.
- Preserve the harvest: If you have an abundance of spring produce, consider canning, freezing, or drying it to enjoy later.
Thomas Cuisine’s Commitment to Fresh, Seasonal Produce
At Thomas Cuisine, we believe the best meals come from REAL, wholesome food made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. As a trusted foodservice provider, we bring scratch-made meals to healthcare, corporate dining, senior living, and independent schools, ensuring every dish meets our high standards for quality, nutrition, and flavor.
Our chefs and dietitians craft menus that reflect our REAL food philosophy, sourcing locally whenever possible to create meals that are both nourishing and delicious.
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