Eating Seasonally in Montreal: What’s Fresh in April?

🌱 Eating Seasonally in Montreal: What’s Fresh in April? 🌱

April marks the transition from winter to spring in Montreal, bringing fresh local ingredients back into our kitchens. Eating seasonally not only ensures better taste and nutrition but also supports local farmers and reduces our environmental footprint.

So, what’s in season this month? Let’s explore April’s freshest local produce and some easy ways to enjoy them!

🍽 What’s in Season in April in Montreal?

While we’re still a few months away from summer’s abundance, Quebec farms begin to provide early spring produce that’s perfect for warming, comforting meals as well as lighter spring dishes.

Here are the best seasonal ingredients to look for this month:

✅ Asparagus – Crisp, earthy, and packed with nutrients, asparagus is one of the first signs of spring in Quebec.
✅ Leeks – A staple in soups and savory dishes, leeks add a mild onion-like flavor.
✅ Mushrooms – Locally grown mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster are at their best.
✅ Radishes – Peppery and crunchy, radishes add a fresh bite to salads.
✅ Cabbage – A versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw in slaws or cooked in stir-fries.
✅ Carrots & Parsnips – Sweet and hearty, these root vegetables are perfect for roasting.
✅ Rhubarb – The first fruit-like ingredient of spring, rhubarb is great for baking and jams.
✅ Locally raised meats & fish – Trout, cod, chicken, and beef from Quebec farms are fresh and available.
✅ Dairy & cheese – Quebec’s famous cheeses like Oka, Cheddar, and goat cheese remain must-haves.

🥕 Easy & Delicious Recipes with April Ingredients

Here are three simple and seasonal recipes to help you enjoy fresh April ingredients:

🥚 Spring Asparagus & Leek Frittata

A great breakfast or brunch dish packed with protein and flavor!

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs

• 5 asparagus spears, chopped

• 1 small leek, sliced

• ¼ cup local cheese (cheddar or goat cheese)

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Sauté leeks and asparagus in a pan until softened.

3. Whisk eggs with cheese, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour mixture over the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes.

5. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15 minutes until set.

🥗 Radish & Cabbage Slaw with Maple Vinaigrette

A light, crunchy side dish perfect for spring meals.

Ingredients:

• 5 radishes, thinly sliced

• 1 cup cabbage, shredded

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, and olive oil in a bowl.

2. Toss radishes and cabbage with the dressing.

3. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

🍎 Rhubarb & Apple Crumble

A comforting dessert showcasing spring’s first fruit.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rhubarb, chopped

• 2 apples, diced

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup oats

• ¼ cup butter, melted

• 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Toss rhubarb and apples with sugar and cinnamon.

3. Mix oats and butter, then sprinkle over fruit.

4. Bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

🛒 Find Fresh Local Ingredients in Plateau-Mont-Royal!

Looking for fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients? Our grocery store in Plateau-Mont-Royal carries everything you need to cook with April’s best produce.

🌿 Stop by to discover fresh Quebec vegetables, dairy, meats, and artisanal products!
📍 Visit us at Intermarché Universel and follow us for updates on new arrivals and special deals.