zomergroente

Zomergroente (Dutch for summer vegetables) refers to vegetables that reach peak season during the warm months of the year, typically June through August, in temperate climates such as the Netherlands. The category is seasonal rather than a fixed set of species, and it includes a range of crops that are commonly harvested in summer or grown in greenhouses to extend the season.

Examples frequently associated with zomergroente are tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes (zucchini), aubergines (eggplants), peppers (paprika), green beans, lettuce, radishes, peas, sweet corn and new potatoes; other summer crops such as spinach and onions can also be included depending on local climate and farming practices. The exact list varies by region and year, reflecting weather patterns and agricultural methods.

In production, the Netherlands relies on a mix of field crops and protected cultivation. Many warm-weather crops are harvested in open fields from late spring into early autumn, while others (notably tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers) are grown in glasshouses and marketed throughout the summer. Global trade also influences availability, so zomergroente can appear in markets outside the local peak season, though peak-season produce is most abundant in summer.

Nutritionally, zomergroente are typically high in water content and provide vitamins such as A and C and dietary fiber. They are commonly eaten fresh in salads, used in light dishes, or grilled and boiled as part of seasonal meals. The concept emphasizes seasonal eating and local availability, with harvest windows varying by year and region.