The Best Summer Produce in Durham Region: When to Savour it at its Peak
Ontario’s short growing season means we have to make the most of fresh fruits and veggies—here’s the best for stocking your kitchen.
There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, local produce in the height of an Ontario summer. Here in Durham Region, we wait all year for that burst of flavour that only comes from fruits and vegetables picked at just the right moment. Our growing season may be short, but it’s “fruitful”, and when you know what to look for and when, you can make the most of every delicious bite.
Strawberries are one of the first sweet signs of summer. In Durham Region, they usually ripen in mid-June and stick around until early July. The best way to enjoy them is fresh from the field where you can taste the sunshine in every berry! Whether you’re layering them over shortcake, blending them into smoothies or just snacking as you pick, this is when strawberries are at their very best. Some of our favourite spots are Blackstock Berries and Lintons Farm Market.
Snap peas and green beans follow closely behind strawberries in the summer. By late June and into July, you’ll find these crisp, green favourites are ready for your table. They’re perfect steamed with a touch of butter or tossed raw into a summer salad for added crunch. Their peak window is brief, so be sure to grab them fresh from a farmers’ market or local farm stand while you can.
Cherries are the ruby jewels of early to mid-July. Sweet, tart and deeply flavourful, they’re a true treat of the season. Pies, jams or simply fresh from the bowl; there’s no wrong way to enjoy local cherries while they last. Keep an eye out because their season is short, and they’re always in high demand.
As July fades into August, peaches and plums come into their own. These stone fruits thrive in Ontario’s late summer warmth and were one of the very first imported fruit crops from Europe in the late 18th century. Juicy, fragrant and perfect for grilling, baking or eating straight from the basket, they’re a seasonal highlight. Their natural sweetness makes them a hit with both kids and adults.
By early August, sweet corn takes centre stage! Those golden ears show up at roadside stands and market stalls, ready for grilling, roasting or boiling. There’s something iconic about biting into juicy, buttery corn on a warm summer evening. Make sure to visit Pingle’s Farm Market in the summer to complete the corn maze.
Tomatoes in Durham Region also hit their stride in August. From big, juicy beefsteaks to tiny, sweet cherry tomatoes, local growers bring an array of garden-fresh choices. There’s nothing like a simple tomato sandwich, fresh bruschetta or a Caprese salad made with sun-ripened tomatoes at their peak. Now’s also the time to think about preserving. Many families make sauce or salsa to savour the taste of summer all year long.
Our summers may fly by, but there are so many ways to make the most of them. Visiting your local farmers’ markets, signing up for a community-supported agriculture (CSA) box or even growing a few veggies in your own backyard can help you savour every bit of Ontario’s bounty. When you choose local, you’re not only getting the freshest produce, but you’re supporting our growers and strengthening our community.
Happy summer!
