December in Florida is a magical time — not just for the holidays, but for the produce too. The cool, comfortable weather supports a diverse array of fruits and vegetables, from citrus and strawberries to broccoli and greens. Whether you’re shopping at a farmers’ market or browsing the local produce aisle, choosing Fresh From Florida in December is a delicious way to eat seasonally, support local agriculture, and make your meals shine with fresh flavors.
Notable Picks
Citrus: The December Powerhouse
- Oranges, Grapefruit & Tangerines — Florida citrus shines in December. Varieties like Hamlin and Navel oranges, Ruby Red grapefruit, and sweet tangerines are widely available.
- Health Perks — Citrus is packed with vitamin C, making it a nutritious staple for the colder season.
Strawberries
- December marks the beginning of Florida’s strawberry season. These berries benefit from warm days and cooler nights, resulting in juicy, flavorful fruit.
Tropical & Exotic Fruit
- Carambola (Star Fruit) and Guava are also in season, offering a tropical twist to your winter produce haul.
- Passion Fruit makes an appearance too.
- Avocado Varieties — Certain Florida avocados, like the “Monroe” cultivar, are still being harvested in December.
Cool-Weather Vegetables
- Brassicas: Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are abundant — they’re hearty winter staples.
- Celery & Cucumber: Celery remains crisp and fresh; cucumbers can still be harvested, especially in southern regions.
- Eggplant & Squash: Surprisingly, these frost-tender crops are still part of December’s bounty in some areas.
- Radishes & Snap Beans: These add color and texture to winter meals.
- Mushrooms: Grown year-round, but still a dependable pick in December.
- Lettuce & Greens: Leafy greens like lettuce thrive in winter’s mild temps.
Why Choose Fresh From Florida Produce in December
Flavor and Freshness
When produce is harvested locally, it gets to market faster. That means better flavor, more nutrients, and less “travel fatigue” than imported produce.
Support Local Farmers
Buying seasonal Florida produce means you’re directly supporting the state’s agricultural community.
Sustainability
Less distance traveled = lower carbon footprint. Local produce is more eco-friendly.
Health Boost
Many of the December items — especially citrus, cruciferous vegetables, and leafy greens — pack a powerful nutrient punch, from vitamin C to fiber.
Tips for Shopping & Cooking December Produce
Visit Farmers’ Markets: Try to shop at local farmers’ markets or farm stands. This is often the best way to get true “fresh from the field” produce.
Check the Label: When buying at grocery stores, look for “Florida-grown” or “Fresh From Florida” labels.
Storage Matters:
- Citrus: Store in a cool, dry place or in the crisper drawer.
- Greens: Wash, spin dry, and store in a bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
- Berries: Keep strawberries in a single layer, loosely covered, in the fridge and eat them soon — they don’t last super long.
Cooking Ideas:
- Citrus Salad: Combine segmented oranges and grapefruit with thinly sliced radishes, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh mint.
- Roasted Brassicas: Toss broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage with olive oil, salt, and pepper — roast until crisp and caramelized.
- Strawberry Salsa: Dice strawberries, jalapeno, red onion, and cilantro; add lime juice for a bright twist.
- Grilled Eggplant: Slice eggplant, brush with olive oil, grill, and finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of fresh orange or tangerine.
