Category: Cooperative Extension
Bite into Summer with Local Produce: 5 Fresh Delaware Picks
July 01, 2026 Written By: Kimberly Moore, Health and Well-being Extension Agent
Delaware is home to a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables each summer. Whether you love checking out the local farmers’ market or tending to your own garden, you can get produce to fit your tastes and nutritional needs. Here are 5 locally grown vegetables and fruits you can enjoy in the summer months & some recipes to help you make the most of them!
Broccoli
Broccoli is available from June through August. Some of the many nutrients broccoli provides are vitamin C, vitamin A and fiber. There are many easy ways to enjoy broccoli. You can add broccoli to your favorite pasta dish or stir-fry for an extra serving of vegetables, or have it raw with dip or dressing. Another great way to enjoy raw broccoli is in a broccoli salad! Check out UD Cooperative Extension’s Broccoli Salad recipe here:
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are available from June through October. Cucumbers contain a lot of water and provide nutrients like fiber and potassium. Cucumbers add a crunch to salads, sandwiches and other dishes. Cucumbers can also be a creative addition to a pitcher of water or smoothie to add a light, sweet flavor. Check out UD Cooperative Extension’s Cucumber Smoothie and Peas & Cucumbers recipes here:
Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is available from June through October. For many, sweet corn is a favorite vegetable, and for good reason! It can add a pop of sweetness and a fun texture to recipes. Sweet corn provides nutrients like folate, fiber and potassium. Try grilling corn on the cob, using it to top a salad, or try adding it to a pot of soup, stew or chili. Sweet corn can make a great side dish. Check out UD Cooperative Extension’s Corn Salad and Tomato Bean Corn Salsa recipes here:
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are available from June through October. They provide nutrients like Vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene. Tomatoes are a key ingredient in many favorite meals. You can add some fresh tomato slices to a sandwich or burger, top a salad with cherry tomatoes, or grill thick slices of tomato. It is hard to imagine a recipe that wouldn't go great with fresh local tomatoes! Tomatoes can even be the star of breakfast with recipes like Tomato Feta Pie or mixed with other seasonal vegetables to make a summer salsa. Check out UD Cooperative Extension’s Tomato Feta Pie and Summer Vegetable Salsa recipes here:
Watermelon
Watermelons are available from July through October. Some of the nutrients watermelon provides are Vitamin A & Vitamin C. Watermelon, like the name suggests, provides a lot of water, which is especially helpful in the summer heat when staying hydrated is important. Its light sweet flavor makes it a summer favorite! In addition to enjoying a piece of fresh watermelon, consider adding it into water for a lightly flavored beverage, into a smoothie to sweeten it up, or use it in a fruit salad. Like corn and tomatoes, watermelon can also be a great ingredient in a salsa! Check out UD Cooperative Extension’s Summer Fruit Salad and Watermelon Salsa recipes here: