Its easy for to incorporate yummy fruits and vegetables into daily meals in the spring and summer when everything is blooming and thriving. The fall season welcomes a delicious second crop of some of those foods again in addition to a few new ones.

Then the months of winter roll in, bringing frigid cold air with it. Most plants and trees look barren and brown, and the words fresh fruits and veggies seem nowhere to be found or whats available doesnt look so appetizing. So what fruits and veggies are available fresh during the winter months, and how can they be deliciously prepared for eating?

The winter season is actually surprisingly productive, with commonly known fruit and vegetables still available. Fruits like citrus fruits, pomegranate and kiwi are still around, and hearty vegetables, like broccoli, turnips, potatoes, squash, peas, rhubarb, celery and cabbage (don’t forget the famous Brussels sprout) and others.

It may take a little effort, but the end result is worthwhile. Begin your search at the supermarket, and if you can’t find what you need there, try specialist food shops and local farmers markets. You may even consider growing your own vegetables, and harvesting the impressive results when the season arises. A winter garden can be grown and cultivated indoors or out. More information about this will be available from the local library, or do a quick search on the internet.

Cooking Ideas: The first thing that always comes to mind is to make some delicious hearty warm veg soup. Begin preparing early on, and let the soup simmer away undisturbed, producing that unmistakable aroma. How about making guacamole with avocado, or cabbage leaves stuffed with hot filling. Sweet potatoes with pecan nuts and natural brown sugar can give a tasty treat.

Here’s some ideas for the preparation of winter fruits: Salad is a nice compliment with any meal. Add a little extra zing, by throwing in some orange segments or grapes with lettuce. Or maybe have yourself a winter fruit salad, removing any vegetables. For an exciting taste, add a little orange zest to freshly prepared cranberry sauce, and serve with poultry. Passion fruit mixes well with kiwi, mix and serve with plain vanilla ice cream for a dreamy taste, or serve pears gently warmed with a dash of cinnamon.

Fresh fruit and veg is still available in the cold months, wherever you reside. Do a little gardening, or remember to scour the stores, so you and your family enjoy a healthy diet during the winter season.