December is a month filled with cosy meals, Christmas dinners, and winter flavours. It’s a fantastic time for fresh seasonal vegetables. Eating with the seasons means enjoying produce at its best flavour, best quality, and best value.
Here are some of the top seasonal vegetables in December and simple ways to use them in your winter and festive cooking.
1. Carrots
Carrots are great in December. They’re crisp, sweet, and full of colour, making them a winter essential.
Ways to use them:
- Honey-roasted carrots
- Carrot & coriander soup
- Carrot mash
- Add to stews for sweetness.
2. Leeks
Mild, versatile, and perfect for a cosy meal.
Ways to use them:
- Leek & potato soup – a seasonal favourite
- Add to creamy chicken or mushroom pies
- Use in roasted vegetable medleys
- Sauté and serve over mashed potatoes
3. Turnip and Swede
These are earthy, naturally sweet, and incredibly filling, making them perfect for the colder weather.
Ways to use them:
- Parsnip fries with paprika
- Root vegetable mash (great with roasts)
- Add diced root veg to stews
- Roast with herbs and honey for a golden, caramelised finish
4. Mushrooms
Earthy and savoury, they bring rich winter flavour to your dishes.
Ways to use them:
- Add to creamy pasta
- Stir into stews and casseroles
- Sauté with garlic as a simple side
Enjoy The Best of December
December seasonal vegetables make winter cooking richer, easier, and more nutritious. Whether you’re preparing your Christmas dinners or simple weekday meals, December’s produce is packed with flavour and versatility.
For more about what’s in season this December, visit BBC Good Food.