February on a Plate:

Seasonal Fruit and Veg in Spain & the Mediterranean

Discover what fruit and veg are in season in February in Spain and the Mediterranean.

February may be short, but it’s quietly brilliant when it comes to seasonal produce. Winter veg is still going strong, citrus is at its juicy peak, and there’s plenty of inspiration for comforting, nourishing meals that won’t break the bank.

Eating seasonally in Spain means better flavour, better value, and food that actually wants to be eaten right now — no sad strawberries pretending it’s June.

Let’s see what February has to offer. 🌿🍊🍏

Tips for Using This Chart

• ✨ Mediterranean climate: Mild winters mean lots of leafy greens and winter citrus are at their best in February. Agriculture and rural development
• 🛒 Local markets: Visiting weekly farmers’ markets in Spain in February is a great way to see exactly what’s freshest locally.
• Imported vs. local: Supermarkets may show produce year-round, but local seasonality is when flavor and sustainability are best.

Why Eat Seasonally in February?

• Better flavour and freshness
• Lower prices at markets
• More nutrients
• Fewer food miles
• Recipes that actually suit the weather

How to Use February Produce

• Big pots of soups and stews (we’ve got a few recipe suggestions below)
• Roasted veg trays with olive oil and herbs
• Bright citrus salads to balance winter comfort food
• Simple tapas-style dishes using artichokes, spinach, and garlic

🍊 Seasonal Fruit in February (Spain & Mediterranean)

• Oranges – Sweet, juicy, and perfect for salads, desserts, and fresh juice
• Mandarins & Clementines – Easy snacks, kid-friendly, peak sweetness
• Lemons – Essential for dressings, baking, and winter immunity
• Grapefruit – Ideal for salads and breakfast bowls
• Apples – Still abundant and versatile
• Pears – Great for roasting, salads, and desserts
• Kiwis – Nutrient-dense and excellent in winter smoothies
• Avocados – Mediterranean-grown varieties are at their best

🥕 Seasonal Vegetables in February

• Leeks – Sweet, mild, and perfect for soups and bakes
• Onions – A kitchen staple at peak quality
• Garlic – Full flavour, ideal for winter cooking
• Carrots – Sweet and crunchy
• Parsnips – Brilliant roasted or mashed
• Cabbage (white, savoy, red) – Budget-friendly and versatile
• Cauliflower – Great roasted, mashed, or in curries
• Broccoli – Nutrient-rich and quick to cook
• Spinach – Fresh winter greens
• Chard (Acelga) – A Spanish winter classic
• Artichokes – One of February’s stars in Spain
• Fennel – Perfect for salads and roasting
• Potatoes – Reliable and comforting
• Turnips – Underrated but delicious roasted or stewed

🍽️ Seasonal Recipe Inspiration — February

🥦 1. Spanish Oven-Baked Rice with Cauliflower & Green Beans

A wintery one-pot rice dish using cauliflower — ideal for colder days and a great way to enjoy seasonal veggies. Cauliflower and green beans create a hearty, healthy main. Served with lemon & aioli, it’s comfort food with Mediterranean flavour.

🐟 2. Baked Cod with Tomatoes, Chickpeas & Capers

This fish & veg dinner is bright, quick, and perfect for a seasonal midweek meal. Cherry tomatoes pair beautifully with lemon zest, and olive oil-roasted chickpeas add protein and texture.

🐖 3. Paprika-Infused Pork Bites (Quick Tapas)

A crowd-pleasing tapas recipe perfect for seasonal entertaining. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the smoky paprika-spiced pork, and garlic keeps the flavours lively.

🫒 4. Marinated Olives (Spanish-Style Tapas)

A super-simple 5-minute tapas that’s excellent with winter citrus and salads. Olives are classic Mediterranean fare and pair nicely with local produce when served with fresh bread.

🍠 5. Baked Sweet Potatoes with Lemon & Thyme

A cosy roast veg side that highlights sweet potatoes, lemon, and herbs — simple enough to serve alongside soups, stews, or roast proteins. Top tip: Sweet potatoes are great in winter dishes, paired here with bright citrus.

🍣 6. Spanish-Style Spicy Salmon with Orange

A vibrant fish dish that capitalises on citrus season — orange slices add colour, sweetness and pair beautifully with warm spices. This dish comes together with minimal effort and has maximum table appeal!

FAQs

What fruit and vegetables are in season in Spain in February?

In February, Spain is rich in winter produce. Seasonal fruit includes oranges, mandarins, lemons, grapefruit, apples, pears, kiwis, and avocados. Seasonal vegetables include leeks, onions, garlic, carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, chard, fennel, potatoes, and artichokes.

Why is February a good month for citrus in Spain?

February is peak citrus season in Spain. Oranges, mandarins, and lemons are at their juiciest and most flavourful thanks to winter growing conditions, making them ideal for fresh eating, juices, desserts, and salads.

Is it cheaper to eat seasonally in February?

Yes. Seasonal produce is usually more affordable because it’s abundant and locally grown. February vegetables like cabbage, carrots, leeks, and potatoes are especially budget-friendly.

What are the best vegetables for winter cooking in February?

February vegetables are perfect for warming dishes such as soups, stews, roasted trays, and casseroles. Leeks, cauliflower, cabbage, artichokes, and carrots all hold their texture and flavour well in winter cooking.

Is February produce healthy?

Absolutely. Winter produce is rich in fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. Citrus fruit provides vitamin C, while leafy greens like spinach and chard are packed with iron and nutrients.