While a lot of different vegetables and fruits grow in Malta all year round, such as cabbages and green peppers, in this list we will be only including locally-grown produce available from January to March. 

Choosing local does not only benefit your health, supporting local farmers also preserves our country's agricultural landscape. 

Maltese vegetables and fruits go from farm to table in a relatively short time meaning that they significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

Cabbages

While available all year round, cabbages are at their best throughout January. They're as versatile as they come and can be baked, fried, stuffed and steamed. Chockfull of vitamin C and antioxidants, it's no wonder that these leafy greens are a staple during the cold winter months. 

Green Onions 

Available from February to June and perfect for garnishes, green onions grow amply all over the Maltese islands. Known locally as basal ahdar, these plants are edible top to bottom and can be served both raw and lightly cooked. 

Globe Artichokes 

These tasty vegetables are famous for their versatility and traditional use in Maltese cuisine. With beautifully comforting meals like qaqocc mimli and stuffat tal-qaqocc, it's very easy to see why they're a local favourite. 

Cauliflower

Love it or hate it, cauliflower is another staple in the Maltese kitchen thanks to its versatility. It can be fried, baked and boiled – added to a soup or even made into delicious fritters. It contains fibre, enhances digestion and contains choline, a nutrient that aids in learning and memory improvement. 

Jerusalem Artichokes

This favoured root vegetable can effortlessly become the star of any dish thanks to its distinct nutty but sweet flavour. It can easily replace potatoes in several dishes and makes a memorable risotto. 

Curly Endives

Green and bitter, the curly endive can be used in numerous dishes, as it can be served both cooked and raw. It can also be turned into crisps or turned into a winter wilted salad. 

Broccoli

Packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, presenting eaters with many health benefits, broccoli is an underrated addition to your diet. This vegetable can be cooked in any way imaginable, and can easily become your favourite once you try it out. 

Chayote

Rich in nutrients, slows down ageing and supports healthy liver function, the chayote is a type of squash that can be added to both stir-fries or soups. 

Fennel

This hardy herb is indigenous to the Mediterranean and grows exceptionally well in sea-coast towns, making it an obvious native of the Maltese islands. It has a mild liquorice-like flavour and contains high levels of potassium and calcium. 

Carrots

Carrots are loaded with vitamin A and beta-carotene, making them a great choice for anyone who is looking to lower the risk of diabetes, strengthen bones and bolster eye health. Best eaten raw, these treats can also be boiled, roasted and steamed. 

Brussel Sprouts

This vitamin C-packed superfood is said to be one of the most powerful cold-fighting foods available during the winter months. They are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a great choice to get back in shape after the indulgent Christmas season.

Fresh Garlic

Incredibly nutritious and tasty, garlic offers protection against the common cold. It's a staple addition to most Maltese dishes – both in its cooked and raw forms.

Fruits 

Grapefruit

Grapefruits are loaded with vitamin C and immune-boosting nutrients. While they're generally available all year round, you can get your hands on locally grown varieties throughout winter. 

Lemon

Chockfull of citrusy goodness and vitamin C, lemons present us with numerous health benefits, including weight loss, kidney stones prevention and the reduction of heart diseases. 

Oranges

While they're renowned for their high levels of vitamin C, oranges are surprisingly good at protecting your cells from damage. They also help your body in absorbing iron and fight anaemia.

Keep up-to-date with Yellow's food & drink section here.