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Summer is in full swing! From picnics to bonfires to camping trips, there are plenty of occasions to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables. Whether from your garden, a local farmers market, or an INFRA store, there are lots of ways to enjoy seasonal produce.

So…where does one begin?

First, you need to know what fruits and vegetables are in season and when it’s the best time to buy.

The months of June through early September mark the largest growing season in the U.S. This means that produce options are endless. All season long, INFRA stores and local farmers markets will be full of colorful fresh fruits and vegetables, ready to become a part of your next meal. The cherry on top is that these in-season items are riper than ever and often more affordable due to high supply.

Sure, you can get most fruits and vegetables year-round, but many are incomparably delicious when in season. Plus, when you buy in season, you’re reducing how far your produce travels to reach the store which in turn reduces greenhouse emissions.

Now that you’ve acquired your seasonal produce, pair it with complementary foods to create delightful and nutritious combinations. For example, cheese, nuts, cured meats, chocolate, and bread all make fantastic accompaniments to your fresh fruits and vegetables! You can also incorporate fruits and vegetables into your favorite cocktails, mocktails, beers, or hydrating beverages. Into craft brewing? Use fresh fruit to create an amazing sour beer! 

As you can see, there are countless ways to pair your fresh findings and showcase these in your store!

Here’s a pairing guide to help you get started:

1. Avocado and Tomato

Why It Works: Avocado's creamy texture and mild flavor are perfectly balanced by the acidity and juiciness of a fresh tomato. Perfect Pairings:

• Salads: Mix avocado, tomato, red onion, and cilantro with a splash of lime juice for a refreshing salad.
• Toast: Spread mashed avocado on whole-grain toast and top with sliced tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Salsa: Combine diced avocado and tomatoes with jalapeño, red onion, and lime juice for a vibrant salsa.

2. Berries and Yogurt

Why It Works: Berries' tartness and natural sweetness complement the creamy and slightly tangy flavor of yogurt. Perfect Pairings:

• Breakfast Bowls: Top Greek yogurt with mixed berries, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of granola.
• Smoothies: Blend yogurt with berries, a banana, and a splash of orange juice for a nutritious smoothie.
• Parfaits: Layer yogurt with berries and nuts in a glass for a visually appealing and delicious parfait.

3. Carrots and Hummus

Why It Works: The sweetness and crunch of carrots pair beautifully with the smooth, savory taste of hummus. Perfect Pairings:

• Snack Platter: Serve baby carrots with a bowl of hummus for a healthy and satisfying snack.
• Sandwiches: Add shredded carrots and a spread of hummus to your sandwiches for added texture and flavor.
• Wraps: Roll up hummus and grated carrots in a whole wheat tortilla for a quick and nutritious lunch.

4. Apple and Cheese

Why It Works: The crispness and sweetness of apples contrast with the rich and savory flavors of cheese. Perfect Pairings:

• Cheese Platter: Pair thinly sliced apples with a variety of cheeses like sharp cheddar, brie, or gouda.
• Salads: Add diced apples and crumbled blue cheese to mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
• Grilled Cheese: Create a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich with apple slices and your favorite melting cheese.

5. Cucumber and Dill

Why It Works: Cucumber's refreshing crunch is enhanced by the herbaceous and slightly tangy flavor of dill. Perfect Pairings:

• Salads: Toss sliced cucumbers with dill, red onion, and a simple vinaigrette.
• Pickles: Make quick pickles by marinating cucumber slices with dill, vinegar, and a touch of sugar.
• Sandwiches: Add cucumber and dill to sandwiches for extra freshness and flavor.

6. Pineapple and Coconut

Why It Works: Pineapple’s tropical sweetness is beautifully complemented by the rich, nutty flavor of coconut. Perfect Pairings:

• Smoothies: Blend pineapple and coconut milk for a tropical smoothie.
• Desserts: Top grilled pineapple slices with toasted coconut flakes for a simple yet decadent dessert.
• Salsas: Mix pineapple with shredded coconut, red onion, and cilantro for a unique salsa.

7. Spinach and Strawberry

Why It Works: Spinach's earthy flavor pairs well with the sweet and juicy strawberries. Perfect Pairings:

• Salads: Combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, goat cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
• Smoothies: Blend spinach, strawberries, banana, and almond milk for a nutritious smoothie.
• Wraps: Add spinach and strawberry slices to wraps with turkey or chicken for a fresh twist.

Pairing fresh fruits and vegetables with complementary foods can transform simple ingredients into extraordinary snacks or summer dishes. Cross-merchandising encourages your consumers to experiment with these pairings, discovering new flavors and elevating their meals. Your customers will enjoy the vibrant tastes and nutritional benefits of these dynamic combinations, making every meal a delightful experience and bringing them back to your store for more!