Buying Seasonally

Posted by Timothy Dzurilla Oct 10, 2008

One easy way to save money on your food bill is to pay attention to which foods are locally in season. Fresh produce everywhere from your nearby super-grocer to a farm stands will be significantly lower in price.

Besides being affordable outings, visiting local agrotourism locations can be a great opportunity to pick up some fresh produce at an affordable price. Also, ask around about any local food share programs. This is a great way to have fresh produce, sometimes delivered directly to your home, as it is available and at a greatly reduced priced price. While it's too late to join a community supported agricultural program this year, this is the best time to ask around to see what the options are come springtime.

Seasonal produce in October:

• Cranberries
• Pumpkin
• Butternut Squash
• Sweet Potatoes and Yams
• Nuts

Once you know what the local ingredients are, you're going to need some great, simple recipes.

This month try out purchasing a whole pumpkin and using the flesh for Jamaican Pumpkin Soup and then use the seeds for Pipián sauce or making pepitas.