February is upon us, and you know what that means – it’s time to dive headfirst into the love of seasonal eating. While many of us often associate February with red roses and chocolates, it’s also a month bursting with an abundance of fresh, vibrant produce. With the Janu-worry madness behind us, February is the time to embrace the power of seasonal eating and kickstart your healthy, culinary journey with a fresh start.
We are truly spoiled for good fresh foods in SA! South Africa boasts an incredible variety of seasonal summer produce. Juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes, plump, succulent peaches and everything in between, the options are endless. Whether you’re a fan of crisp salads, refreshing smoothies or hearty grilled veggies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, what are some of the standout seasonal stars to look out for in February? Let’s start with tomatoes – a true summer staple that’s at its peak during this time of year. Whether you prefer them roasted, grilled or simply sliced and sprinkled with salt, there’s no denying the versatility and flavour of fresh tomatoes. As a bonus, they are also packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, making them a nutritional goes-with-everything ingredient.
Up next and in keeping with the month of love, we have the alluring avocado. The ancient Aztecs, the first documented people to eat avos, were definitely onto something. They used the fruit as a sexual stimulant. They called the tree ‘ahuacuatl’, meaning testicle tree. But I think this is more due to how the fruit hangs on the tree. It’s been proven that avocados are high in vitamin E, which is sometimes known as the ‘sex vitamin’. This is because this vitamin promotes the production of hormones which support mood, attraction and desire. What’s not to love about this creamy, rich and oh-so-satisfying favourite?
Up next we have the stone fruits – the jewels of summer that bring a burst of sweetness to summer days. Peaches, nectarines, plums and apricots abound at this time of year. These juicy fruits are perfect for snacking, baking or incorporating into salads and desserts. Their fruity flavours and vibrant colours are a testament to the sun-kissed days of summer.
One beautiful aspect of seasonal eating that I personally really enjoy is the connection between eating seasonally and the natural rhythms of the earth. By tuning into what’s in season, we not only support local farmers and reduce our carbon footprint but also ensure that we’re consuming produce at the peak of its flavour and nutritional value. There’s something special about savouring fresh produce knowing that it was grown just a stone’s throw away.
