The holiday season is in full swing, and there’s no better time to fill your table with the freshest fruits and vegetables of the season. At your neighborhood Piggly Wiggly in Birmingham, we’re stocked with flavorful, in-season produce perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts.
Buying produce that’s in season isn’t just a smart way to shop — it’s more affordable, better tasting, and supports local and regional farmers throughout Alabama. Whether you’re a traditional Southern cook or a modern home chef, this month’s fresh selection offers plenty to get excited about.
Let’s take a look at what’s fresh in December and how to make the most of these cold-weather favorites.
Seasonal Favorites in Our Produce Aisles
Sweet Potatoes: A Southern Holiday Classic
Sweet potatoes are a year-round favorite in Alabama, but they really shine in December. Whether baked into casseroles, roasted with herbs, or mashed with brown sugar and butter, these hearty roots are rich in flavor, nutrients, and tradition.
Tip: Try cubing and roasting them with cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup for a side dish that’s simple and satisfying.
Collard Greens & Kale: Greens for Gatherings
No Southern holiday table is complete without a pot of collard greens. Both collards and kale are at their peak this month — sturdy, nutrient-dense, and perfect for braising with smoked meats or vinegar.
Try this: Toss kale in olive oil and roast at 350°F for 10–15 minutes for quick, crispy kale chips — a healthy snack for all ages.
Turnips & Rutabagas: Rooted in Flavor
These humble root vegetables are winter essentials. Turnips have a mild, peppery flavor, while rutabagas are slightly sweeter and earthier — both are excellent when roasted or cooked into stews and soups.
Quick tip: Peel, cube, and roast with olive oil, salt, and thyme for a simple and comforting side dish.
Cabbage: Crunchy, Affordable, Versatile
From slaws to stir-fries, cabbage is one of the most budget-friendly ways to feed a crowd. It adds crunch to salads and can be cooked down for warming dishes like cabbage rolls or sautéed sides.
Local favorite: Shred cabbage into winter vegetable soups for added texture and nutrition.
Carrots: Crisp, Sweet, and Colorful
Carrots are a staple year-round, but their natural sweetness peaks in winter. Use them raw in lunchboxes, roasted as a holiday side, or sliced into hearty stews.
For the holidays: Glaze them with honey and rosemary for an elegant dish worthy of your holiday spread.
Winter Citrus: Oranges, Grapefruit & Satsumas
December marks the start of citrus season, and Alabama is lucky to be near satsuma country. Look for juicy oranges, ruby red grapefruit, and easy-peel satsumas to brighten your meals and boost vitamin C during cold months.
Snack idea: Keep a bowl of satsumas on the counter — easy for kids and grownups to grab on the go.
Pecans: A Southern Pantry Must-Have
While not technically produce, locally harvested pecans are a seasonal favorite throughout Alabama. Use them in pies, cookies, salads, or just snack on them roasted.
Bonus: Package them in mason jars with a bow for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Beets: Vibrant and Earthy
Beets add rich color and earthy flavor to any plate. Roast them for salads, pickle them for sandwiches, or blend them into hummus for a healthy, bright pink twist.
Kitchen hack: Roast whole beets in foil, peel once cool, and slice into warm salads with goat cheese and walnuts.
Winter Squash: Comfort in Every Bite
Butternut, acorn, and other winter squashes are in full swing. Their naturally sweet flavor and hearty texture make them perfect for soups, gratins, and side dishes.
Try this: Roast butternut squash with sage and garlic, then mash for a savory alternative to sweet potato casserole.
Spinach: Light but Nourishing
Spinach is surprisingly resilient in colder months and is a go-to green for quick sautés, frittatas, and salads. It’s high in iron and cooks down quickly, making it a kitchen staple.
Easy dinner: Toss spinach into pasta right before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Simple Recipe: Roasted Winter Veggie Medley
Looking for an easy side dish that works for weeknights and holiday dinners? This roasted winter vegetable medley brings together sweet potatoes, carrots, turnips, and beets for a colorful, flavorful, and healthy addition to your table.
Celebrate the holidays with this hearty roasted vegetable medley—featuring sweet potatoes, carrots, and red onions—all made with peak-season produce from your local Piggly Wiggly in Birmingham.
Ingredients:
- 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 turnips, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium beets, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)
- Optional: 1 tbsp maple syrup for a hint of sweetness
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Place all chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then add salt, pepper, and rosemary. Toss until well coated.
- Spread vegetables on a large baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
- Optional: Drizzle with a touch of maple syrup before serving for added depth.
Serving Tip: This dish pairs perfectly with roast chicken, glazed ham, or as a vegetarian main served over quinoa or rice.
Why Seasonal Produce Matters
Shopping seasonally isn’t just about flavor — it’s about making smart, community-minded choices. By choosing what’s in season:
- You get produce that’s picked at its peak freshness.
- You support regional growers across Alabama and the Southeast.
- You stretch your grocery budget with better prices on in-season items.
At Piggly Wiggly Birmingham, we work closely with local partners to keep our produce departments stocked with the best the season has to offer. It’s one more way we’re keeping things fresh — and keeping it local.
Visit Your Neighborhood Piggly Wiggly Today
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or looking to add more fresh options to your weekly meals, there’s never been a better time to explore the produce aisle at The Pig.
Don’t forget to download the Pig Bham App on the App Store or Google Play for digital coupons and savings on your favorite seasonal produce.
Stop by today and see what’s fresh at #thepigbham!