Seasonal Ingredients: Year Round
Because of different growing seasons in different parts of the country and around the world, some items are generally available year-round—with pretty much consistent quality. Of course, some items like tomatoes are available year round, but we discuss them in the season when they're best.
Fruits
Bananas
Bananas, unlike most fruits and vegetables, ripen best after they're picked. The typical yellow or Cavendish variety is in season all year-a good thing considering their popularity. See All About Bananas to find out more.
Lemons
Choose firm, plump lemons that are smooth and bright yellow with no touches of green. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Vegetables
Mushrooms
Button mushrooms are generally available year-round. Choose plump, clean mushrooms that are white.
Shallots
Shallots are a member of the onion family though they look more like garlic than onions. Their head is made up of several small cloves that are covered with a thin, papery skin and their subtle flavor is a wonderful addition to most any savory dish. Choose shallots that are plump and firm and don't show any signs of sprouting.
Spices
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is sold both ground and whole. Whole nutmegs are small oval nuts about 1-inch long. Try purchasing the whole nut and grinding it with a microplane or the fine side of a box grater as needed. Its flavor is much stronger than the nutmeg purchased already ground.