It’s time to start saying goodbye to July as we begin to enter August. August on Cape Cod is peak produce season! The days are long, the gardens are full, and local farm stands are overflowing with fruits and vegetables that capture the true essence of summer. Whether you are a seasoned gardener, a weekend market-goer, or just someone who loves cooking with fresh ingredients, this is your month to shine in the kitchen.
So what should you be reaching for right now at the grocery store or the farmers markets? Let’s take a tour of what is in season, where to find it, and how to enjoy it with a few easy recipes from our team at Agway.
What’s In Season Right Now
Our rich soil and coastal climate here on Cape Cod create a lush environment for growing a variety of produce in late summer. In August, local farms are bursting with the following:
Tomatoes
We’re talking about all tomatoes here. This includes classic red slicers, cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, and juicy heirloom varieties. Tomatoes are reaching peak ripeness and this will continue throughout August. Add them to sandwiches, salads, salsas, or just enjoy with a sprinkle of salt and olive oil and enjoy!
Corn
Nothing says summer on the Cape quite like sweet corn. Boiled, grilled, or cut fresh into a salad, it is a must-have right now.
Zucchini and Summer Squash
Abundant and versatile, zucchini is great grilled, spiralized into noodles, or baked into quick breads.
Peppers
Bell peppers and hot peppers alike are thriving this month. Their crunch and color are great for stir-fries, kabobs, or roasted alongside your favorite proteins.
Cucumbers
Cool and crisp, cucumbers are perfect for pickling, slicing into salads, or infusing into water with a few sprigs of mint.
Eggplant
This deep purple beauty is excellent for grilling or layering into a vegetarian lasagna. If you have never made eggplant Parmesan from scratch, now is your chance.
Green Beans
Fresh and snappy, beans are a staple side dish and delicious when sautéed with garlic or tossed in lemon juice and herbs.
Blueberries and Raspberries
These native berries are sweet, antioxidant-rich, and perfect for baking, snacking, or swirling into your morning yogurt.
Peaches
Juicy, fragrant, and just the right amount of soft, peaches are at their best in August. Add them to salads, desserts, or slice them over vanilla ice cream.
Where to Shop Local on the Cape
When you think of summer, don’t you picture farmers markets and fresh produce? We do! Cape Cod is full of wonderful farm stands and farmers markets where you can find the freshest produce and support local growers at the same time. Below are a few of our favorites:
Cape Cod Organic Farm in Barnstable Village offers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables grown right on site. The farm stand is open throughout the week.
Taylor-Bray Farm in Yarmouth Port is not only historic but also home to some of the freshest vegetables and herbs around.
You can also check out your local town farmers market. From Chatham and Harwich to Falmouth and Orleans, there is a market happening almost every day of the week in August. These are great places to try new things, talk to growers, and bring home delicious inspiration for your next meal.
Easy Recipes to Try
Not sure what to do with your market haul? We have a few favorite recipes that bring out the best in Cape Cod’s August produce. You can find these and more inspiration on our Agway blog.
Grilled Peach and Basil Salad
Sweet grilled peaches meet peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and fresh basil in this perfect side dish or light dinner. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or seafood.
Recipe: https://whatmollymade.com/grilled-peach-salad/
Fresh Corn and Tomato Salad
Sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a tangy vinaigrette come together in a refreshing and colorful salad. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Recipe: https://emilybites.com/2023/08/corn-and-tomato-salad.html
Zucchini Bread
Have more zucchini than you know what to do with? This moist quick bread is lightly sweet and makes a great breakfast or afternoon snack. You can even freeze it for later.
Recipe: https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/zucchini-bread/
Tomato Bruschetta
This is the easiest way to celebrate August tomatoes. Chop and toss with garlic, olive oil, and basil, then pile high on toasted baguette slices.
Recipe: https://hostthetoast.com/tomato-bruschetta-recipe/
Herb-Infused Mocktails and Cocktails
August herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary make beautiful additions to drinks. Check out our herbs and cocktails guide to elevate your next backyard gathering.
Tips for Gardeners
If you are growing your own food at home, August is also an important month for maintenance and harvesting. Make sure to pick tomatoes, squash, and beans regularly to encourage more growth. Keep herbs trimmed and watered. And do not forget to feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer to carry them into fall.
This is also a great time to start planting fall crops like kale, beets, and carrots, which thrive in the cooler temperatures of September and October.
A Note on Pollinators
As you enjoy the fruits of the season, take a moment to thank the bees. August 20 is National Honey Bee Day, and these hardworking pollinators play a major role in helping our flowers and food crops thrive. To support them, consider planting late-summer bloomers like coneflowers, goldenrod, or bee balm. Learn more about how to support bees on our Honey Bee Guide.
August Produce on Cape Cod
August is a time to enjoy Cape Cod at its tastiest. From juicy peaches to crisp green beans, the produce this month is vibrant, fresh, and full of flavor. Whether you are cooking at home, exploring local markets, or digging into your garden, we hope this month brings you plenty of good food and even better memories.
Happy harvesting from all of us at Agway of Cape Cod!