As summer fades into autumn in Australia, our local produce starts shifting to cooler-weather crops while still holding onto some of summer’s best flavors. Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables isn’t just about freshness—it’s also cheaper, more nutritious, and better for the environment.
If you're wondering what’s in season right now, this guide will help you shop smarter and eat tastier!
Why Eat Seasonal Fruits & Vegetables?
Source: eufic.org
🌱 Better Taste & Nutrition – Seasonal produce is harvested at peak ripeness, meaning more flavor and nutrients compared to out-of-season alternatives.
💰 More Affordable – When fruits and veggies are in season, there’s an abundance, which drives prices down. Imported produce is often pricier due to transport costs.
🌍 Supports Local Farmers & Sustainability – Buying local reduces food miles, lowering your carbon footprint while supporting Australian farmers.
🍽️ More Variety & Better Cooking – Eating seasonally encourages diverse meals with fresh, rotating produce throughout the year.
Best Seasonal Fruits to Eat Right Now (Late Summer to Early Autumn)
🍑 1. Peaches & Nectarines
💡 Why? Still at their peak, juicy peaches and nectarines are perfect for snacking, baking, or adding to salads and smoothies.
✅ How to Eat: Slice into yogurt bowls, grill for a dessert, or blend into a smoothie.
❄ Storage Tip: Store at room temperature until ripe, then move to the fridge.
🍇 2. Grapes
💡 Why? Sweet, hydrating, and packed with antioxidants, Australian-grown grapes are thriving right now.
✅ How to Eat: Eat fresh, freeze for a refreshing snack, or toss into salads.
❄ Storage Tip: Keep in a breathable bag in the fridge for maximum freshness.
🍏 3. Apples (Early Varieties)
💡 Why? As autumn begins, crisp new-season apples hit the markets. Varieties like Royal Gala and Pink Lady are perfect for munching.
✅ How to Eat: Eat raw, make apple crisps, or cook into a pie.
❄ Storage Tip: Store in the crisper drawer of your fridge to keep them crunchy.
🍐 4. Pears
💡 Why? New-season pears are sweet, juicy, and incredibly versatile.
✅ How to Eat: Enjoy fresh, poach in cinnamon syrup, or slice into a cheese platter.
❄ Storage Tip: Let them ripen at room temperature, then refrigerate.
🍈 5. Figs
💡 Why? Figs are soft, sweet, and full of fiber, making them a nutrient-packed treat.
✅ How to Eat: Eat fresh, add to salads with goat cheese, or drizzle with honey for dessert.
❄ Storage Tip: Best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
Best Seasonal Vegetables to Eat Right Now (Late Summer to Early Autumn)
🥒 1. Zucchini
💡 Why? One of summer’s final stars, zucchini is light, hydrating, and incredibly versatile.
✅ How to Eat: Spiralize into zoodles, add to stir-fries, or grill with olive oil.
❄ Storage Tip: Store in the fridge for up to a week in a breathable bag.
🍆 2. Eggplant
💡 Why? Peak season eggplants are firm, glossy, and rich in fiber.
✅ How to Eat: Roast with garlic, make eggplant parmigiana, or use in curries.
❄ Storage Tip: Keep in a cool, dry place or in the fridge crisper drawer.
🥬 3. Silverbeet (Swiss Chard)
💡 Why? As the weather cools, nutrient-dense leafy greens like silverbeet start thriving.
✅ How to Eat: Sauté with garlic, add to omelets, or mix into soups.
❄ Storage Tip: Wrap in a damp paper towel and store in a sealed bag in the fridge.
🎃 4. Pumpkin
💡 Why? Pumpkin season is beginning, making it the perfect time for roasting, soups, and pies.
✅ How to Eat: Roast with herbs, blend into a creamy soup, or bake pumpkin muffins.
❄ Storage Tip: Store whole pumpkins in a cool, dry place; once cut, refrigerate.
🌽 5. Sweet Corn
💡 Why? Late summer corn is at its peak—sweet, juicy, and perfect for grilling.
✅ How to Eat: Grill on the cob, make corn fritters, or add to salads.
❄ Storage Tip: Keep husks on and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Final Thoughts: Eat Fresh, Save Money & Support Aussie Farmers!
Source: carriageworks.com.au
Eating seasonal produce in Australia is one of the best ways to enjoy fresher, tastier, and more affordable food. By choosing fruits and vegetables that are in season, you’ll also be supporting local farmers and making a more sustainable choice.
💡 What’s your favorite seasonal fruit or vegetable right now? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @theoddprod with your fresh produce creations.