At Mon Panier Latin, we believe that to truly appreciate French gastronomy, one must begin with the seasons. In France, eating is never just about feeding oneself—it’s a ritual, a celebration, and an homage to the rhythm of nature. Now that June has arrived, the country’s markets, gardens, and countryside are alive with colour, scent, and flavour.
The Early Summer Garden: Fresh, Green, and Full of Life
French markets in June are a visual feast. Think rows of crisp courgettes, bunches of vibrant radishes, and the deep green of broad bean pods piled high on wooden stalls. Here are some of the standout vegetables this month:
Asparagus (asperges vertes ou blanches)
The French asparagus season is just finishing in early June, so now’s the time to enjoy this delicacy. In France, green asparagus is grilled or sautéed lightly in butter and served with a poached egg or a dollop of hollandaise sauce. White asparagus, more popular in northern France, is peeled and boiled gently until tender—then drizzled with vinaigrette.
Pair it with: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc and crusty French bread.
Courgettes (zucchini)
Courgettes are at their best right now—delicate, sweet, and incredibly versatile. In Provence, they’re often sliced thin and tossed with olive oil and herbs, or baked into tian (a gratin-style dish layered with vegetables). Courgette flowers may also appear at markets and are stuffed with cheese or lightly fried.
Try this: Make a light courgette and goat’s cheese tart with puff pastry—simple, elegant, and très français.
Peas & Broad Beans (petits pois et fèves)
These sweet, tender legumes are a staple in early summer. They’re often served simply in France—lightly blanched, then tossed in butter or added to pasta and risottos.
Inspiration: Try them in a spring salad with mint, lemon zest, and a shaving of aged Comté.
The Sweetness of Summer: Fruits to Savour in June
If vegetables speak of freshness and renewal, June’s fruits whisper indulgence. This is a golden month for fruit lovers, and French patissiers and home cooks make full use of the bounty.
Strawberries (fraises Gariguette, Mara des Bois...)
These are the jewels of the French fruit stalls in June. Gariguette strawberries—small, slender, and bursting with fragrance—are particularly prized for their flavour. Eaten plain, tossed in sugar, or folded into a tarte aux fraises, they capture the essence of summer.
A French touch: Serve with a spoonful of crème fraîche and a drizzle of honey, or macerate in a splash of red wine for a rustic dessert.
Cherries (cerises noires et rouges)
Plump, dark cherries are another early summer star. In the Limousin region, they’re baked into clafoutis, a custard-like cake that’s simple but utterly delicious.
Serving idea: Pair cherry compote with goat’s cheese or enjoy fresh cherries with a wedge of Brie.
Rhubarb (la rhubarbe)
Rhubarb’s tartness is cherished in many French households, especially when paired with strawberries or apples. It’s used in jams, tarts, or stewed with vanilla for a light dessert.
Tip: Bake a classic tarte à la rhubarbe with frangipane for a traditional Alsatian treat.
Cheese in the Sunshine: Light, Fresh and Full of Character
Though cheese is a year-round obsession in France, summer calls for something a bit lighter. Creamy goat’s cheeses and soft, young cow’s milk cheeses take centre stage in June.
Goat’s Cheese (fromage de chèvre frais)
Whether in the Loire Valley or Languedoc, early summer is the peak time for fresh goat’s cheese. It’s slightly tangy, incredibly creamy, and perfect in salads, sandwiches, or warm tarts.
Pair it with: Beetroot, walnuts, or honey for a perfect starter—or enjoy with rosé on a picnic.
Comté AOP (cheese of the month!)
Aged for 6 to 24 months, Comté is a firm cheese from the Jura mountains with notes of butter, hazelnut, and caramelised onions. It’s perfect for both summer cheeseboards and light dishes.
Try this: Grate over vegetables or enjoy with apple slices and a glass of dry white wine.
The French Seasonal Philosophy: Slowing Down, Eating Well
In France, eating seasonally isn’t about trends—it’s about tradition. It’s about knowing your farmer, waiting for your favourite fruit to be ripe, and adjusting your meals to the mood of the month. It’s about celebrating what’s fresh, local, and full of life.
At Mon Panier Latin, we’re proud to share that philosophy with our customers. Every item we select, every brand we support, and every box we ship carries the spirit of French culinary heritage.
