What to Cook and Eat in February {recipe ideas}
I’m continuing my monthly series and this month, I’m offering you a look at what to cook and eat in February!
February is often a cold and gray month, but it has its charm in the kitchen. It’s the season of comfort food, sweet and warm flavors, and fresh winter produce (yes, there is some!) that reminds us of the importance of eating local and seasonal. I’m going to take you into my kitchen to show you what I’m cooking in February, with a few tips to enjoy what nature offers us this month.
What we’re cooking in February
In February, root fruits and vegetables are in the spotlight. Carrots, beets, leeks, cabbages and celeriac are my allies for concocting creamy soups, purees and homemade gratins. A leek or potato gratin, garnished with a little cream or fresh cheese, is a real treat on long winter evenings. I also like to prepare cauliflower gratins, garnished with melted cheese for a touch of indulgence.
And how can we forget squash? There are still a few left, like butternut squash and pumpkin, which lend themselves to so many recipes. I use them roasted in the oven with spices, in creamy soup, or even in cakes to add a natural sweetness.
Citrus fruits are also still in the spotlight right now: oranges, clementines, grapefruits and lemons bring a welcome note of freshness and vitamin C. I love making a citrus salad with a drizzle of honey and a touch of cinnamon, or using their juice to create fragrant vinaigrette. Lemon zest, meanwhile, enhances both sweet and savory dishes. And why not try your hand at homemade limoncello? You’ll see, it’s very simple to prepare and delicious!
What to Cook and Eat in February {recipe ideas}
What fruits and vegetables do we eat in February?
By clicking on the foods, you will have access to all my recipes for cooking with them.
- Fruits: Apple – Banana – Lemon – Lime – Clementine – Date – Grapefruit – Kiwi – Kumquat – Litchi – Mandarin – Mango – Orange – Papaya – Passion fruit – Pomegranate – Pear – Persimmon – Pineapple
- Vegetables: Artichoke – Avocado – Batavia – Beetroot – Brussel Sprout – Carrot – Celery – Cabbage – Brussels sprouts – Kale – Pumpkin – Squash – Endive – Lettuce – Turnip – Onion – Parsnip – Spring onion – Leek – Potato – Arugula – Salsify
- Fresh herbs : Coriander – Dill – Parsley
- Nuts : Hazelnut – Walnut
February is also the time to bring out the slow-cooked dishes. Whether it’s beef bourguignon, a filet mignon casserole with mushrooms or a veal stew, these dishes take time but warm the hearts. And the smell that fills the house while cooking… a real treat!
Of course, I can’t talk about February without mentioning Candlemas! We make crepes as a family, with fillings for all tastes: sugar and lemon, homemade jam, melted chocolate or even savory versions like ham and cheese. Preparing crepes is also a great activity to involve children in the kitchen, and everyone can personalize them by choosing their own savory and sweet fillings.
And you, what do you like to cook in February?
Some recipe ideas to enjoy in february:
