Updated: August 4, 2025 • Seven-minute read • Author: Charles Piedboeuf
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Why eat seasonally in September?
September is the month when nature continues to spoil us 🥗: the stalls are bursting with color, the flavors are at their peak, and prices remain low before the arrival of autumn. But eating seasonally is much more than a pleasure for the taste buds! You support local producers, you do something for the planet, and you enjoy fruits and vegetables picked at their peak, therefore much richer in vitamins and flavor.
Back-to-school time is also a chance to get back into good eating habits, lighten your wallet, and mix up your dining pleasures. Ready to (re)discover the best September has to offer? Follow the guide so you don't miss a thing!
Which fruits and vegetables should you favor this month?
September is a time of diversity: summer fruits are in overtime, while autumn vegetables are slowly making their debut. To help you find your way around, here's a look at this month's stars:
- Fruits: plum, grape, fig, apple, pear, mirabelle plum, blackberry, blueberry, hazelnut, melon, watermelon (end of season), peach, damson.
- Vegetables: tomato, pepper, zucchini, eggplant, cucumber, green bean, carrot, beetroot, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, lettuce, radish, onion, garlic, new potato.
To learn more, check out the official seasonal calendar or ourdetailed in-house calendar ! You can also get a basket of seasonal fruits and vegetables delivered to your home every week—how convenient is that?
Recipe ideas and gourmet combinations
September's fruits and vegetables inspire a thousand ideas: vitamin-packed salads, ratatouilles, rustic tarts, compotes... Here are some ideas to add a twist to your daily life:
- Sunny salads: heirloom tomatoes, grilled peppers, feta, fresh herbs. Drizzle with olive oil for a delicious treat!
- Express ratatouille: eggplant, zucchini, tomato, pepper, onion. Cooked in the air fryer ( comparison here ), it's quick and full of flavor.
- Cold soup: zucchini velouté or cucumber gazpacho, perfect for still-hot days.
- Smoothies and compotes: Blend apple, blackberry, pear, or fig in your favorite smoothie blender for a healthy on-the-go snack.
- Back-to-school barbecue: marinated vegetables to grill, fruit skewers (grapes, peaches, figs) on the griddle, Neary grill inspiration 🔥.
Tip: Stone fruits (plums, mirabelle plums, damsons) are perfect for making tarts or clafoutis, but can also be frozen to enjoy all winter long. Root vegetables (carrots, beets) can be grated raw for extra crunch!
Need some inspiration? Check out this GoodPlanet article on September's fruits and vegetables or explore our utensil comparisons to boost your recipes.
Putting together a smart basket: tips and budget
Want to eat well without blowing your budget? Good news: eating locally and seasonally is often the best budget-friendly option. Here are some tips:
- Favor weekly baskets: Seasonal baskets allow you to discover new products, while benefiting from group prices.
- Go to the market at the end of the morning: Unsold items are sometimes sold off, ideal for stocking up or cooking in large quantities.
- Smart preservation: Freeze, put in jars, dry (herbs, tomatoes) to avoid waste and vary the pleasures later.
- Cook everything: Carrot or radish tops can be transformed into pesto, and peelings can be added to broth. Zero waste, zero embarrassment!
Budget-wise, you can get by on the cheap by adapting your recipes to the latest arrivals. The month's star fruits and vegetables are always more affordable than out-of-season imported produce. To go further,our calendar helps you plan your shopping list.
The benefits for your health and the planet
Eating seasonally in September is good for your body... and the Earth! Ripe fruits and vegetables are naturally tastier and packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It's ideal for recharging your batteries after summer, boosting your immunity, and preparing for the new school year with vitality.
On the planet side, the carbon footprint is reduced: less transport, less packaging, more freshness. You also promote regional agriculture, the preservation of know-how and local biodiversity. The little bonus: you discover forgotten or hardy varieties (parsnips, crosnes, damsons, etc.) that are making a comeback on the markets!
Finally, it's a fun approach: cooking with seasonal produce means reconnecting with the natural rhythm of the seasons, varying the colors on your plate, and rediscovering the true taste of things. In short, a small gesture for you, a big step for your well-being 🌱.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to recognize a fruit or vegetable that is truly in season?
Look at the origin: if it's local or French, it's a good sign. Avoid imported or oversized products. Check the official calendar to verify!
Can we eat summer vegetables until September?
Yes! Tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, and eggplant are still on the shelves, especially in the south of France. Take advantage of them; the season flies by.
How to keep September fruits longer?
Most can be frozen once cut and pitted. Apples and pears can be stored in the cellar. Otherwise, consider making compote or sterilizing them in jars for the winter.
Are there pre-made baskets so you don't make a mistake?
Yes, find our weekly basket with all the essentials of the month, ready to cook.
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