Everyone usually has a favorite season. Some prefer the sunny days of Summer, others like to bundle up during snow Winters, and there are lots that favor the mild breeze of a Spring or Autumn afternoon.
It makes sense that we all have our own favorites because seasons dictate so many aspects of our daily lives. We ask Siri “What’s the weather?” before we get dressed in the morning, we make plans to go hiking or visit the outdoor farmers market when the weather is just right, and very often we decide what food to eat based on the weather.
Obviously, a piping hot bowl of soup in the dead of Summer doesn’t sound too appealing. Neither will we stop at the ice cream sundae stand in the blistering cold in January.
We want to eat meals that will either complement the temperature outside or in many cases, counteract the uncomfortable hot or cold weather outside.
In cold weather, nothing hits the spot like a warm, home-cooked meal.
Make a bowl of chili on the crock pot and let it simmer while you’re at work. Start by cooking some chopped onions and garlic for five minutes, then add shredded ground beef and cook for six to seven minutes. Then, simply add the rest of your favorite chili ingredients and cook on low.
Other favorites for Winter include shepherd’s pie, soup, meatloaf and stew.
For warmer days, how about some crisp watermelon? You can throw together a delicious watermelon and pecan salad with a few ingredients. Slice your watermelon into ice-cold cubes, then combine with gorgonzola cheese crumbles, toasted pecans and any variety of baby lettuce. Enjoy your salad on your patio while some burgers finish cooking on the grill!
Alternatively, try out a smoothie or fish tacos. And there’s nothing like a good deli meat sandwich after doing some yard work on a hot day.
Agriculture and fisheries are hugely affected by the climate. This also has a profound impact on the food we end up buying.
In the month of March, for example, crops of artichokes, asparagus, avocados, beets, green beans and grapefruit spring up in California. This ultimately means that items like these are “in season” and might be available at your local market for a lower cost.
