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Maximize Your Health This Spring by Eating Seasonally in Colorado: A Dietitian's Guide to Local Produce

Spring in Colorado brings a fresh start not only to the landscape but also to your diet. Choosing seasonal produce Colorado offers during this vibrant season can boost your health, support local farmers, and enhance your meals with fresh flavors. As a Dietitian Nutritionist, I want to guide you through the benefits of eating seasonal fruits and vegetables, highlight what’s in season this spring, and share where to find the best local farmers markets in the Denver metro area, including Westminster, Broomfield, Northglenn, and Thornton.


Eye-level view of fresh spring vegetables displayed at a local Colorado farmers market
Fresh spring vegetables at a Colorado farmers market

Why Choose Seasonal Produce in Colorado This Spring


Eating seasonal produce has many advantages that go beyond taste. Here’s why focusing on Colorado seasonal fruits and vegetables this spring can improve your well-being:


  • Higher Nutrient Content

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are harvested at their peak ripeness, which means they retain more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, fresh asparagus and strawberries picked locally in spring have more nutrients than those shipped from far away.


  • Better Flavor and Texture

Produce grown and harvested in season tastes fresher and more vibrant. You’ll notice the difference in the crispness of spring greens or the sweetness of early rhubarb.


  • Supports Local Economy and Sustainability

Buying from local farmers markets helps small-scale farmers thrive and reduces the environmental impact of long-distance transportation. This means fresher food with a smaller carbon footprint.


  • Cost-Effective

Seasonal produce is often more affordable because it is abundant and doesn’t require expensive storage or shipping.


Spring Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables in Colorado


Colorado’s climate and elevation create a unique growing season. Here are some of the top seasonal fruits and vegetables you can expect to find fresh this spring:


Vegetables


  • Asparagus

One of the first spring vegetables, packed with fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K.


  • Spinach and Other Leafy Greens

Rich in iron and antioxidants, perfect for salads and smoothies.


  • Radishes

Crisp and peppery, great for adding crunch and vitamin C.


  • Rhubarb

Tart and flavorful, often used in desserts and jams.


  • Green Onions

Mild and fresh, ideal for garnishing dishes.


  • Peas

Sweet and tender, high in protein and fiber.


Fruits


  • Strawberries (Late Spring)

Early spring berries bursting with vitamin C and manganese.


  • Rhubarb

Although technically a vegetable, rhubarb is often used like a fruit in cooking.


  • Cherries (Late Spring)

Depending on the year, some early cherry varieties may start appearing toward late spring.


How to Incorporate Seasonal Produce Into Your Diet


Adding seasonal fruits and vegetables to your meals can be simple and delicious. Here are some ideas:


  • Breakfast: Add fresh strawberries and spinach to your morning smoothie or omelette or add strawberries to your yogurt or oatmeal.

  • Lunch: Make a salad with mixed greens, radishes, green onions, and a light vinaigrette.

  • Dinner: Roast asparagus and peas with garlic and olive oil as a side dish.

  • Snacks: Enjoy fresh strawberries or radishes with chocolate or regular hummus for a nutrient-packed snack.

  • Desserts: Use rhubarb to make a tangy compote or pie filling.


Where to Buy Seasonal Produce in the Denver Metro Area

  • Major grocery stores such as King Soopers, Safeway, Whole foods have seasonal produce available year round. Look for the blue, red and white label the says "Colorado Proud"

  • Farmers Markets: open late spring May or June

  • Farm Stands and Orchards: open late spring May or June




Local Farmers Markets in the Denver Metro Area


To get the freshest Colorado seasonal produce this spring, visiting local farmers markets is the best way. Although most don't open until May or June. Here are some excellent options in and around Denver, including Westminster, Broomfield, Northglenn, and Thornton:


Westminster Farmers Market

Westminster Orchard Farmers Market

Northglenn Farmers Market

Thornton Healthy Farmers Markets

Denver Union Station Farmers Market

Visiting these markets not only connects you with local growers but also gives you access to the freshest Colorado seasonal produce available.


Tips for Shopping at Farmers Markets


  • Go Early: Arrive early for the best selection of fresh produce.

  • Bring Reusable Bags: Help reduce waste by bringing your own bags.

  • Ask Questions: Talk to farmers about how their produce is grown and get recipe ideas.

  • Try Something New: Seasonal markets often have unique varieties you won’t find in stores.

  • Plan Your Meals: Check what’s in season and plan your weekly meals around those ingredients.


Benefits of Eating Seasonal Produce Backed by Research


Research shows that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports overall health. Seasonal produce offers:


  • Can Help Improve Immune Function

Vitamins and antioxidants in fresh produce help strengthen your immune system.


  • Can Help with Heart and Digestive Health

High fiber content in seasonal fruits and vegetables supports gut and heart health.


  • Can Help Reduce Risk of Chronic Diseases

Diets rich in plant-based foods can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.


By choosing Colorado seasonal fruits and vegetables, you get these benefits while enjoying the freshest, most flavorful options available.


If you want personalized guidance on how to include more fruits and vegetables into your diet or need support with meal planning and nutrition, feel free to contact me. Together, we can build a healthy eating plan that fits your lifestyle and helps you make the most of Colorado’s spring harvest.


 
 
 

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