May- What the Lord has Grown This Month
May Seasonal Produce Guide: What’s Fresh & Delicious This Month
The month of May marks the heart of spring—when farmer’s markets overflow with vibrant colors, fragrant herbs, and the sweet anticipation of summer. This is the beginning of the harvest each year in most of the US, especially in Mississippi. Whether you're cooking up weeknight dinners, planning a brunch, or just love eating with the seasons, May offers a bounty of flavorful, nutrient-rich produce.
Here’s your guide to what’s in season this month- and how to enjoy it! ;)
Leafy Greens & Veggies
1. Asparagus
Crisp and tender, asparagus is a spring superstar. Roast it, grill it, or toss it in pasta.
Try it: Roasted asparagus with lemon zest and parmesan.
2. Spinach
Packed with iron and vitamins, fresh spinach is perfect for smoothies, salads, or sautéed with garlic. (even with cream and parmesan)
Try it: Spinach Au Gratin
3. Lettuce (Butter, Romaine, and more)
Fresh-picked lettuces are crisp and flavorful—perfect for salads and wraps. Romaine is my favorite!
Try it: Classic Caesar Salad
4. Peas (Sugar Snap & Snow Peas)
Sweet and crunchy, peas are delicious raw, stir-fried, or added to pastas. (Pro tip: frozen peas are cheap and always at peak freshness)
Try it: Spring pea risotto with mint and lemon.
Fruits
5. Strawberries
Juicy, fragrant, and bursting with flavor—May strawberries are peak perfection.
Try it: Strawberry shortcake or add to overnight oats.
6. Rhubarb
This one is not so common for us, but it is delicious. Tart and vibrant, rhubarb pairs beautifully with strawberries or works great in compotes and pies.
Try it: Strawberry-rhubarb crisp with a crunchy oat topping.
7. Cherries (Late May)
Depending on your region, cherries may start popping up toward the end of May.
Try it: Fresh cherry salsa over grilled chicken or fish.
Herbs & Aromatics
8. Mint
Cool and refreshing, mint is perfect in sweet and savory dishes—or cocktails! I love to add it to fruit salad.
Try it: Cucumber-mint lemonade or fruit salad
9. Chives
Fresh chives add a delicate oniony flavor to dips, eggs, and potatoes.
Try it: Simple baked potatoes with chive butter
10. Green Garlic
A milder, springtime version of garlic—great in soups, stir-fries, or dips. If you can find this one, you have found a gem!
Try it: Green garlic pesto over pasta or roasted vegetables..
Tips for Shopping Seasonal
Visit your local farmer’s market: You’ll find the freshest picks and support local growers.
Here’s some in and near Corinth, MS. Take some time to research the best market’s in your area. Pro tip: visit these and find your favorite!
The Corinth Farmer’s Market: This is a classic farmer’s market with local people setting up their cars with their produce. 904 E Shiloh Rd, Corinth, MS 38834; Open year round from 7:00am-1:30pm.
Wilbanks Produce: They offer lots of in season options and they are always open. This produce stand is more like a little outdoor store. 1301 US-72, Corinth, MS 38834; Open year round from 8:00am-6:00pm.
Tishomingo County Farmer’s Market: A great little farmer’s market that offers more than just produce. They have vendors that sell things like homemade bread and soaps. W Front St, Iuka, MS 38852; Open on Friday evenings during the summer (May-October), 4;00pm-7:00pm.
Look for bright colors and crisp textures: Avoid wilted greens or bruised fruits.
Ask the farmers: They often have tips on how to store and prepare the produce. You never know, you might have a great conversation!
Bonus: Simple May Meal Ideas
Spring Veggie Stir-Fry with asparagus, snap peas, green garlic, and tofu or chicken
Strawberry Spinach Salad with goat cheese and almonds
Rhubarb Jam perfect on toast or yogurt
Asparagus Frittata with chives and parmesan
Final Thoughts
Eating seasonally helps you save money and enjoy your food at it’s peak quality! May is a delicious time to refresh your meals with light and fresh ingredients.
Got a favorite May recipe? Share it in the comments or tag me on Instagram [@LLLivinglikelivi]—I’d love to see what you’re cooking!
