Which fruits, vegetables and fish are in season in France this June?

June is a more than fruitful month when it comes to local produce in France, as a plentiful supply of late spring and summer selections are available. 

Using locally-sourced ingredients is a cornerstone of French cuisine, one that the government covers what is available on a monthly basis through its manger et bouger website. 

It provides recipe ideas for the seasonal produce too. 

The Connexion publishes a monthly overview of the fresh fruits and vegetables in season in France. 

Summer fruits and vegetables make grand return

“In June, the sun finally arrives [with] an explosion of colours and flavours,” the website states. 

This is particularly the case with fruit, as dark and red fruits including raspberries, blackberries, cherries, and blackcurrants are all readily available. 

Stone fruits such as peaches and apricots are in season, as are watermelon and other melon types. 

Summer vegetables including tomatoes (although a fruit), aubergines and peppers enter into season, and it is peak season for green beans, courgettes, cucumbers, and artichokes.

It is the final month to enjoy asparagus.

Recommended recipes for the month are light – it is better to avoid heavy foods when temperatures rise – and include ratatouille as well as a cherry clafoutis. 

Mussels arrive for summer

The website also covers the lesser-known seasons for fresh fish in France. 

June marks the grand return of fresh mussels after an absence during spring. 

Pike, hake, sea bream and herring are all available in June but their season is coming to an end, so take advantage of them before it is too late. 

At the same time, the warm months mark the arrival of red gurnard (grondin rouge) a lesser-known but delicious fish. 

It is often used on barbecues – perfect for the summer evenings.