From Farm to Fork: Ottawa’s Freshest Produce Picks for May

What’s In Season in Ottawa This May? A Guide to Fresh Local Produce

May in Ottawa is a vibrant time for fresh, seasonal produce. As the days grow longer and warmer, local farmers’ markets and grocery stores begin to fill with colorful fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re planning your weekly meals, browsing recipes, or looking for inspiration for your next baking project, here’s a helpful guide to what’s in season in the capital this month.

Seasonal Vegetables in May

This is the perfect time to enjoy a variety of spring vegetables that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s what you can expect to find:

• Asparagus – Tender and flavorful, great grilled, roasted, or tossed into salads.
• Artichokes – A slightly more exotic spring vegetable, perfect for steaming or baking.
• Peas – Sweet and crisp, they’re a great snack on their own or in stir-fries and pastas.
• Leeks – Milder than onions, they’re ideal for soups, quiches, and savory tarts.
• Lettuce – Crisp and fresh, great for salads and sandwiches.
• New Potatoes – These young potatoes have a delicate skin and a creamy texture.
• Carrots & Radishes – Both are crunchy, colorful, and great raw or roasted.
• Spring Greens – Including arugula, spinach, and other leafy greens perfect for fresh salads.

Fresh Fruits to Enjoy in May

While Ontario-grown fruits start to trickle in during May, you’ll also find some tasty imports that are still in peak season and perfect for springtime recipes:

• Strawberries – Juicy and sweet, they shine in everything from shortcakes and smoothies to jams and fresh snacks.
• Apricots – Their sweet, soft flesh makes them ideal for desserts, baking, or enjoying fresh.
• Pineapples – A tropical favorite that adds brightness to both sweet and savory dishes.
• Rhubarb – Tart and tangy, it pairs beautifully with strawberries in classic pies, crumbles, and crisps.
• Cherries – These rich, red gems are delicious for snacking or baking into pies and cakes.
• Blueberries, Raspberries & Blackberries – Berries are beginning to appear and make perfect additions to yogurt, cereal, or baking.

Eat Seasonally, Eat Well

Eating seasonally not only supports local farmers and reduces your carbon footprint, but it also ensures you’re getting produce at its peak flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re stocking up at the farmers’ market or planning a spring dinner party, let May’s fresh produce guide your meals.

Looking for recipes or storage tips for these ingredients? Stay tuned for more posts.