This December meal plan will make you feel all the warm fuzzies — even if the Florida temps don’t result in the snowy Christmas you see in Hallmark movies!
Florida’s fresh produce is bountiful this month, featuring everything from cauliflower to tangerines. From Publix to the local farmer’s markets, home cooks will have plenty to fresh fruits and vegetables to complement cozy winter meals.
This month’s To Cook List features tons of recipes full of seasonal ingredients. Grab them at your favorite grocery store or from your local farmer, pair the ingredients with items from your fully-stocked pantry and enjoy gathering around the table with family all season long.
Here’s what’s on my December meal plan.
What Produce is in Season in Florida in December?
The weather outside is far from frightful in Florida in December…in fact, it’s often downright delightful! Warmer winters mean Florida produce is aplenty across the state, making it easy to use seasonal ingredients at your holiday table. Here’s what you’ll find on store shelves (and possibly on sale) in December:
- Avocado
- Bell Pepper
- Cabbage
- Carambola
- Cauliflower
- Celery
- Cucumber
- Eggplant
- Grapefruit
- Guava
- Lettuce
- Mushroom
- Orange
- Passion Fruit
- Radish
- Snap Bean
- Squash
- Strawberry
- Sweet Corn
- Tangerine
- Tomato
December Meal Plan
This list includes some new produce, like strawberries and cauliflower. But plenty of other favorites, like sweet corn and oranges, have been in season for a few months. For even more recipes featuring fall and winter Florida produce, check out the November Meal Plan and September Meal Plan.
Coleslaw
This light, mayo-free coleslaw recipe from Ambitious Kitchen looks like the perfect complement to taco bowls or fish tacos, which are always in season in the Sunshine State! The combination of in-season cabbage, jalapeño, cilantro and other fresh ingredients make this the perfect addition to your weeknight menu.
Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower
A recipe that combines garlic, parmesan and cauliflower? Say less – I’m running to the store right now! This easy side dish from Dishing Out Health looks like the perfect addition to a variety of meals, from a simple chicken cutlet to a clean-out-pantry bowl.
Asian Cucumber Salad
During the busy holiday season, easy dishes are an absolute must. This cucumber salad from Feasting at Home looks like the answer to busy weeknights! I plan to add this to a rice bowl for a quick dinner or last-minute lunch.
Green Salad
Packed with cranberries, apples, goat cheese and, of course, in-season lettuce, this salad from Cookie and Kate is the perfect addition to any meal. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but I’ll likely toss in some shredded chicken for a nutritious dinner or easy-to-pack to lunch.
Beef Stroganoff
When the temperatures start to drop in Florida, I crave beef stroganoff. Thankfully, mushrooms are in season this time of year, making it the perfect time for this creamy recipe from The Kitchn. Warm, tasty and extra cozy, it’s the perfect comfort meal.
Roasted Radishes
I won’t lie to you -I don’t think I’ve ever cooked radishes before! But now seems like a great time to start and this simple roasted radish recipe from The Natural Nurturer looks like an excellent way to experiment with this root veggie.
Butternut Squash Ravioli
If you ask me, cozy season can’t officially start until there’s a batch of butternut squash ravioli in the freezer. I’ve used several recipes over the years and keep coming back to this version from Skinnytaste. It’s packed with flavor and easy to put together to freeze for later. I’ve cooked the ravioli several ways: in boiling water as directed or right in the pan before putting together the sauce.
Balsamic Roasted Strawberry and Basil Grilled Cheese
Sometimes, a hot sandwich is just the cure for dreary winter days. This grilled cheese from Pass the Sushi features strawberries roasted in honey and balsamic vinegar and tons of brie for a delectable hot sandwich. It looks like the perfect option for an easy dinner that feels just a little bit fancy.
Winter Strawberry Cake
This dessert will make a beautiful addition to any holiday table. With strawberry in the cake filling and the frosting, this recipe from California Strawberries turns up the flavor. Grab some in-season Florida strawberries, grab your apron and enjoy whipping up a new dessert for your family table!
Tangerine Drizzle Cake
This citrus-packed cake is perfect for your next holiday party — or for packing up as a gift for neighbors or co-workers. This recipe from Erren’s Kitchen has a show-stopping drizzle on top for a nice topping.
Which of these recipes will you add to your December meal plan? Happy cooking!
