September’s Harvest: Your Ultimate Guide to Seasonal Produce and Delicious Recipes

Welcome to September, friends! As the warm embrace of summer slowly gives way to the crisp, inviting air of autumn, we find ourselves at the delightful crossroads of seasonal produce. While we might still be savoring the last notes of summer’s bounty, September ushers in a new wave of delicious ingredients, from hearty fall staples to the final sweet whispers of stone fruits. It’s the perfect time to explore fresh, vibrant flavors that promise healthy and utterly satisfying meals.

This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for discovering what’s at its peak in September. Eating seasonally isn’t just about enjoying the best flavors; it’s also about supporting local agriculture, reducing your carbon footprint, and often, saving money. So, get ready to fill your kitchen with the season’s finest, whether you’re craving comforting autumn dishes or still clinging to those last rays of summer sunshine in your cooking. Get ready to embrace all things pumpkin, apple, and so much more!

Embracing September’s Delicious Bounty

Curious about which vibrant fruits and vegetables are ripe for the picking this September? This month offers a fantastic variety, bridging the gap between late summer and early fall. From crunchy apples to versatile squash, and even some lingering sweet berries, there’s a treasure trove of ingredients waiting to inspire your next meal. Let’s dive into the delicious details and make the most of this transitional season’s incredible offerings!

Apples: The Quintessential Taste of Autumn

September marks the true start of apple season, bringing with it an incredible array of varieties, each with its own unique flavor and texture. From crisp, tart Granny Smiths perfect for baking to sweet Honeycrisps ideal for snacking, apples are incredibly versatile. They’re packed with fiber and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Embrace the satisfying crunch and natural sweetness of this beloved fall fruit in everything from salads to comforting desserts.

Pictured: Our delightful Apple, Candied Walnuts, and Blue Cheese Salad with Honey-Apple Dressing – a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy for a refreshing yet hearty meal.

My Favourite Apple Recipes:

• Caramelised Onions, Apples and Goat Cheese Pizza
• Flourless Apple Pie Pancakes (a total favorite!)
• Slow Cooker Sweet Potato, Apple & Turmeric Soup by Real Food Whole Life
• Cinnamon Apple Energy Bites by Recipe Runner

More Apple Recipes >>

Blackberries: A Lingering Taste of Summer

While often associated with peak summer, blackberries continue to thrive into early September, offering their wonderfully juicy and tart flavor. These dark, antioxidant-rich berries are fantastic for desserts, smoothies, and refreshing drinks. Their slightly tart edge makes them incredibly versatile, pairing well with both sweet and savory elements, adding a burst of color and flavor to any dish. Grab them while you still can!

Pictured: Our vibrant 5-Ingredient Blackberry Limeade. I fell head over heels for the juicy tartness of blackberries this past summer, and this limeade was an absolute showstopper – we finished it in a single day!

My Favourite Blackberry Recipes:

• 5-Ingredient Blackberry Limeade
• Homemade Blackberry Paleo Fruit Roll-Ups by Paleo Grubs
• Blackberry Ricotta Pizza with Basil by The Food Charlatan

More Blackberry Recipes >>

Broccoli: A Nutrient-Packed Green Gem

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins C and K, and fiber. While available year-round, it truly shines in the cooler months, becoming sweeter and more tender. It’s incredibly versatile, delicious steamed, roasted, stir-fried, or even as a base for pizza crusts. Its earthy flavor complements a wide range of dishes, from light salads to hearty mains, making it a reliable and healthy addition to your September menu.

Pictured: Our satisfying Asian Tofu Stir Fry with Honey Sriracha Sauce, showcasing how well broccoli blends into flavorful, quick meals that are both healthy and delicious.

My Favourite Broccoli Recipes:

• Asian Tofu Stir Fry with Honey Sriracha Sauce
• Broccoli Crust Pizza by Gimme Delicious
• Broccoli and Cheddar Four Cheese Pizza by Peas and Crayons

More Broccoli Recipes >>

Cabbage: Crunchy, Versatile, and Healthy

Cabbage, with its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, is a staple in many cuisines, and September is a great time to enjoy it. It’s incredibly versatile, whether you’re using it raw in crisp slaws and fresh spring rolls or cooking it down for a softer, sweeter texture in stir-fries and stews. Beyond its culinary appeal, cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, making it a fantastic addition to any healthy diet as the seasons change.

Pictured: Delightfully fresh Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Ginger Sauce. I adore cabbage for its bright beauty and versatility; I use it raw for that perfect crunch or even sautéed it down in coconut milk for a different texture and depth of flavor.

My Favourite Cabbage Recipes:

• Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Ginger Sauce
• Kale Cabbage Slaw
• Nourish Buddha Bowl with Harissa Tahini Dressing
• Pickled Red Cabbage by Take Two Tapas

More Cabbage Recipes >>

Carrots: Sweetness and Color for Your Plate

Carrots are a consistent kitchen hero, and in September, they offer a delightful natural sweetness that becomes even more pronounced when cooked. Rich in beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in the body, they’re fantastic for eye health and immunity. Whether you roast them to bring out their natural sugars, spiralize them into noodles, or add them raw to salads, carrots provide beautiful color and a subtly sweet earthiness to any dish.

Pictured: Our wonderfully flavorful Maple Garlic Roasted Carrots, a simple yet elegant side dish that highlights their natural sweetness.

My Favourite Carrot Recipes:

• Maple Garlic Roasted Carrots
• Baked Carrot Fries with Harissa Tahini Dip
• Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies by Amy’s Healthy Baking
• Carrot Cake Overnight Oats by Fit Foodie Finds
• Gluten Free Carrot Cake Waffles by The Crunchy Chronicles

More Carrot Recipes >>

Cauliflower: The Ultimate Chameleon Vegetable

Cauliflower is a culinary marvel, renowned for its incredible ability to transform into almost anything – from “rice” and “steaks” to delectable “wings” and even pizza crusts. As it comes back into season in September, its mild, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture make it a fantastic low-carb, nutrient-dense option. It’s rich in vitamin C and K, and a great source of fiber, making it a super versatile vegetable for your autumn cooking.

Pictured: Our irresistible Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Wings. My obsession with cauliflower is no secret; it can be transformed in SO many amazing ways and it’s finally coming back into peak season!

My Favourite Cauliflower Recipes:

• Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Wings
• Crispy Cauliflower Tacos with Chipotle Crema
• Za’atar Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
• Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes by iFOOD REAL
• Cauliflower Tikka Masala by Vegetarian Gastronomy

More Cauliflower Recipes >>

Eggplants: The Versatile Mediterranean Gem

Eggplants continue to be a star in September, bringing their rich, meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. This nutrient-dense vegetable is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and offers endless possibilities, from grilling and roasting to turning into dips and main courses. Don’t be intimidated by its unique appearance; eggplants are incredibly easy to cook with and can add sophisticated depth to your meals as summer produce lingers.

I typically go through about four eggplants every week! Everything from mini veggie pizzas and amazing toppings for vegan pizzas to hearty stuffed eggplants and creamy baba ghanoush is constantly coming out of my kitchen. Eggplants are so easy to work with and are such delicious vegetables, offering incredible variety that you shouldn’t be intimidated by.

My Favourite Eggplant Recipes:

• Almond Crusted Baked Eggplant
• Balsamic Grilled Vegetables
• Baba Ghanoush
• Sheet Pan Eggplant Parmesan by The Two Bite Club

More Eggplant Recipes >>

Green Beans: Crisp, Tender, and Flavorful

Green beans are a delightful early fall vegetable, still offering their fresh, crisp texture and mild, earthy flavor. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal. Excellent steamed, sautéed, or roasted, green beans make a fantastic side dish or a vibrant addition to salads and stir-fries. Look for firm, bright green pods that snap easily for the freshest taste.

Pictured: Our incredibly simple yet delicious Garlic Parmesan Sesame Stir-Fry Green Beans, a perfect quick side that’s bursting with flavor.

My Favourite Green Bean Recipes:

• Garlic Parmesan Sesame Stir-Fry Green Beans
• Crispy Green Bean Fries with Creamy Sriracha Sauce by Joyful Healthy Eats
• Supreme Green Bean Casserole by Low Carb Maven

More Green Bean Recipes >>

Greens (Herbs, Spinach, Kale, and More): Freshness in Every Bite

September is a prime time for a variety of fresh greens and herbs, including tender spinach, robust kale, and aromatic rosemary. These leafy greens are vital for healthy eating, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Fresh herbs, in particular, can elevate any dish from good to extraordinary with their vibrant flavors and aromas. Don’t underestimate the power of fresh greens to add zest and nutrition to your meals, whether in salads, smoothies, or pestos.

Pictured: The beautiful Apple, Candied Walnuts, and Blue Cheese Salad with Honey Apple Dressing, demonstrating how fresh greens can be the foundation of a delicious, healthy salad that celebrates seasonal produce.

I try to keep a bag of fresh greens in my fridge at all times for spur-of-the-moment salads, pestos, and anything else that needs a burst of freshness. Using fresh herbs always makes a huge difference you’ll definitely taste compared to dried ones. I’m even thinking of starting my own herb garden soon, and my current favorite herb is undoubtedly rosemary – I’ve been using it in everything!

My Favourite Greens Recipes:

• Creamy Cashew Pea Pesto
• Kale and Pistachio Pesto
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Bowl

More Greens Recipes >>

Peaches & Plums: The Last Sweetness of Summer

September offers a final chance to savor the juicy sweetness of peaches and plums, often referred to as stone fruits. While their peak is typically mid-summer, many varieties extend their season into early fall, providing a delightful transition. These fruits are fantastic for desserts, jams, and even savory dishes, adding a burst of sweetness and a delicate tartness. Enjoy them fresh, grilled, or baked into comforting crisps before they’re gone until next year!

Pictured: Our vibrant Quinoa Stone Fruit Salad. I’m relatively new to cooking with peaches and plums (a shocker, I know!), but lately, I’ve been putting them in and on everything. This Stone Fruit Salad is truly a must-try before the season ends.

My Favourite Stone Fruit Recipes:

• Quinoa Stone Fruit Salad
• Stone Fruit Sangria with Peaches and Plums
• Grilled Stone Fruit with Coconut Cream
• Really Easy Plum Cake by The Crepes of Wrath
• Summer Stone Fruit Crisp by Bakerita

More Stone Fruit Recipes >>

Pumpkins: The Ultimate Symbol of Autumn

As September arrives, so does the beloved pumpkin! More than just a Halloween decoration, pumpkin is a wonderfully versatile and nutritious ingredient. It’s rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and potassium, making it excellent for both sweet and savory applications. From comforting soups and decadent desserts to festive lattes, pumpkin embodies the cozy spirit of fall. Get ready to embrace all things pumpkin spice and everything nice as the season truly begins!

Pictured: Our comforting Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread, a perfect treat for the autumn season that brings warmth and deliciousness.

My Favourite Pumpkin Recipes:

• Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
• Skinny Vegan Pumpkin French Toast
• Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Pumpkin Spice Latte by Champagne Tastes
• Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Bars with a Streusel Topping by Chelsea’s Messy Apron

More Pumpkin Recipes >>

Radishes: A Burst of Color and Spice

Radishes, often overlooked, are wonderfully vibrant and offer a delightful peppery kick and crisp texture that is perfect for invigorating late-summer and early-fall dishes. Available in numerous varieties, from the classic red globe to beautiful Easter egg radishes and mild daikon, they add a fantastic crunch and subtle spice to salads, tacos, and sandwiches. They’re also incredibly easy to pickle, preserving their unique flavor for longer enjoyment and a tangy twist to your meals.

Pictured: Our simple yet impactful Quick Pickled Radishes. How am I only just discovering radishes now? Not only are they undeniably pretty, but their crunch and spice factor remind me a lot of kohlrabi, which I fell in love with years ago. Be sure to try out all different varieties, including Easter egg radishes (pictured above), daikon radishes, and any other kinds you can find!

My Favourite Radish Recipes:

• Quick Pickled Radishes
• Radish and Egg Salad by A Couple Cooks
• Salted Rosemary Roasted Radishes by Running to the Kitchen

More Radish Recipes >>

Squash: The Comforting Heart of Fall

September signals the arrival of glorious winter squash varieties, ushering in flavors of warmth and comfort. From the creamy sweetness of butternut squash to the spaghetti-like strands of spaghetti squash, these nutritional powerhouses are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. They are perfect for roasting, pureeing into soups, or incorporating into hearty main dishes, making them the ultimate comforting vegetable of the season.

Pictured: Our incredible Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Crispy Sage. Squash is truly where it’s at – this recipe is definitely one of my all-time favorites for a cozy meal!

My Favourite Squash Recipes:

• Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Crispy Sage
• Vegan Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
• Butternut, Kale & Feta Quiche by Green Kitchen Stories
• Baked Four Cheese Garlic Spaghetti Squash by Eat Well 101

More Squash Recipes >>

Tomatoes: The Enduring Taste of Late Summer

Tomatoes are not just a summer/fall staple for me; they are truly a life staple! Even as summer winds down, late-season tomatoes in September are bursting with flavor, offering a final opportunity to enjoy their juicy sweetness before the colder months. Packed with lycopene, an antioxidant, tomatoes are incredibly versatile – fantastic raw in salads, cooked into rich sauces, or roasted to intensify their flavor. Don’t let their availability in other forms fool you; nothing beats the taste of fresh, in-season tomatoes.

I put tomatoes in and on every single thing! Whether it’s using cherry tomatoes, tomato sauce, or making my own marinara sauce, tomatoes are so great to use this month because they pair well with everything! If you’re not usually a fan of raw tomatoes, try them seasoned and cooked – it might just change your perspective!

My Favourite Tomato Recipes:

• Roasted Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
• Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Burst Cherry Tomatoes
• Coconut Chickpea Curry
• Baked Goat Cheese with Fire Roasted Tomatoes by A Couple Cooks
• Chickpea Dumplings in Curry Tomato Sauce by Diettaste

More Tomato Recipes >>

Make the Most of Your September Kitchen!

September is truly a bountiful month, offering a fantastic array of produce that allows for both fresh, light dishes and cozy, comforting meals. From the first crunch of autumn apples to the last sweet bite of summer berries, and the embracing warmth of pumpkins and squash, there’s something to delight every palate and inspire every home cook. We encourage you to experiment with these seasonal ingredients and discover new favorite recipes that celebrate the best of the season.

If you try any of these recipes or find a new favorite way to enjoy September’s harvest, please let me know in the comment section below, or tag me on Instagram with the hashtag #jessicainthekitchen. What delicious creations do you plan to make this month?

P.S. I’ve completely redone my Pinterest boards to be ingredient-specific, making it even easier for you to find more great seasonal September produce and recipe inspiration. Head over to check it out!