What’s in Season in May?
This article explains what is in season in May and how to make the most of it. The beginning of the warm weather season is here and that means there is an abundance of delicious and nutritious seasonal produce to enjoy.
May is the perfect month to start exploring a wide variety of seasonal produce as many fruits and vegetables are ready to be harvested.
In this article, we’ll explore the fruits and vegetables in season in May and some easy and tasty recipes to get the most out of your seasonal bounty. So grab your grocery list, and let’s get shopping to see what’s in season in May!
This post is based on a Betty Crocker’s Cooking Calendar, published in 1962.
Flower: Hawthorne, or lily of the valley
Gem: Emerald
Hail, beauteous May, that doth inspire mirth and youth and warm desire; woods and groves are of thy dressing, hill and dale doth boast thy blessing. ~ John Milton
For tips on outdoor entertaining, check out my post on Outdoor Entertaining Ideas
Did you know?
Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia first conceived the idea of a Mother’s Day in 1907 and it was first celebrated on May 10th the following year. President Woodrow Wilson issued the proclamation which fixed Mother’s Day to be the second Sunday of the month of May.
May also brings Memorial Day. Originated in 1868 “lest the ravages of time testify to coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided government.” Memorial Day honors the deceased of all wars.
What do you serve at a woman’s club luncheon?
Surprise your family with a fancy dinner for Mother’s Day!
April showers bring May flowers
May is the month to enjoy all the flowers April rains promised. Hawthorn or Lily of the Valley are what’s in season in May, but you’ll also find dogwood, silver bells, azaleas, and rhododendron; early perennials and late bulbs. Don’t leave all your May flowers outside. Use an old teacup, teapot, or antique sugar bowl. Float blossoms in an unusual container like a candy dish or fancy ash tray.
For conventional arrangements, however, you will want to cut flowers. If you cut them on a slant at a cool time of day, and then put them into tepid water (about 100 degrees) for an hour before arranging them in a vase of cold water, you will find that they will keep much longer.
While you are in the garden, why not explore options for using herbs in recipes? Here is a handy guide to help you learn the best uses for herbs in cooking.
What fruits and vegetables are in season in May?
With this handy guide you can easily discover the freshest produce and create meals that are both delicious and good for you.
Buyers guide for what’s in season in May:
Tips on buying asparagus
About 20 stocks per pound
- Choose unbroken tips
- Fresh, green stocks that are straight and 6 to 10 inches long
- Brittle.
- No thin, wilted, old, tough, or woody stalks
- To prevent drying, store asparagus in a moisture-proof bag in refrigerator.
Tips on buying rhubarb
One pound makes two cups rhubarb sauce
- Firm, crisp, tender
- Pink or red
- Thick stalks
- Younger stems are tender and delicate
- Leaves are not edible
- Store in refrigerator or cool, dry place
For more tips on freezing seasonal produce, check out my post on Best Fruits to Freeze
Here is an interesting twist to the classic rhubarb pie recipe
This article provided an overview of what to buy in May, the benefits of seasonal eating, and how to incorporate these ingredients into your recipes. Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just want to freshen up your weekly meal plan, I hope you learned something new and will be inspired to use local ingredients this May. Enjoy!
Sign up for FREE HAMMER & Spoons Newsletters.
