July · San Diego
Blackberries
Wild and cultivated blackberries both peak in July in Southern California. They are deeply flavored, slightly tart, and good with almost nothing added.
How to choose it
- Deep, uniform black with no red druplets remaining
- Plump but not leaking
- Check the bottom of the container for mold
- A little give without being mushy
Buy this much: One pint. Use within two or three days.
Peak season often brings the price down noticeably compared to off-season. Worth picking up when they look good — they're typically among the more affordable berry options in July.
During the week
- Greek yogurt topping in the morning
- Eaten as a snack
- Added to a fruit plate with peaches and mint
On a weekend
Fruit plate with peaches, mint, and honey as a light dessert.
One thing worth learning
Blackberries are fragile. They do not improve with time. Buy them close to when you will eat them and treat the container gently.