Seasonal Ingredients in Cascais: What To Buy Each Month
- Chef Justin Jennings
- Jan 18
- 8 min read
Cascais is a haven for seasonal food lovers, offering a bounty of ingredients that change throughout the year. From vibrant markets like Mercado da Vila to organic options at the Agrobio Market, you’ll find everything you need for meals brimming with flavour. Shopping seasonally not only supports local farmers and fishers but also ensures you get the freshest produce and seafood. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to look for each season:
January–March: Root vegetables, citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, kiwis), and seafood like sea bass and mackerel. Perfect for hearty winter dishes.
April–June: Strawberries, artichokes, asparagus, and shellfish like cuttlefish and octopus. Great for lighter spring meals.
July–September: Stone fruits (peaches, plums), tomatoes, and sardines. Ideal for summer grilling.
October–December: Chestnuts, pumpkins, persimmons, and seafood like sea bass and octopus. Perfect for autumnal comfort foods.
Markets like Mercado da Vila and Agrobio Market offer these seasonal treasures. Arrive early (06:30–09:00) for the best picks, especially on Wednesdays and Saturdays when additional vendors showcase local goods. Seasonal eating in Cascais isn’t just about food - it’s about connecting with the region’s rich food heritage and supporting its community.
What to Buy Each Month in Cascais
Cascais markets change with the seasons, offering a rotating selection of fresh, local ingredients that can inspire your meals and shopping trips. Here's a closer look at what you can find throughout the year at places like Mercado da Vila and other local markets.
January - March: Root Vegetables, Citrus, and Seafood
Winter in Cascais highlights citrus fruits - juicy oranges, tangerines, lemons, and kiwis are at their best. You’ll also find Pêra Rocha pears from the West Region, which are perfect for roasting or poaching. On the vegetable front, hearty greens dominate: think cabbages (couve), kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, leeks, and spinach, all ideal for soups and stews during the colder months.
Seafood lovers will enjoy the cold-water catches of the season. Sea bass, white seabream, and mackerel are particularly fresh. And, of course, salt cod (bacalhau) remains a winter staple in many Portuguese kitchens.
April - June: Artichokes, Strawberries, and Shellfish
Spring ushers in a bounty of fresh, vibrant produce. Strawberries steal the show - you can grab 2 kg for just €2.50 at traditional markets during peak season. Cherries, apricots, and loquats (nêsperas) soon follow. Vegetables like broad beans (favas), asparagus, peas, and artichokes also take centre stage, alongside green onions and chards.
The seafood selection is equally enticing. Cuttlefish is at its prime, and octopus starts appearing in coastal waters. Sea urchins, corvina, and gilt-head bream are also excellent choices during this time. These ingredients are perfect for lighter dishes, such as grilled fish paired with asparagus or favas com chouriço.
July - September: Stone Fruits, Tomatoes, and Fish
Summer is when Cascais markets truly shine. Stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, and plums are abundant, along with melons (melão and meloa), figs, and grapes. When choosing melons, look for a rough, ridged exterior and a sweet aroma near the stem; smooth skin often means the fruit isn’t ripe yet. Seasonal vegetables include tomatoes (priced at €1.50–€2.20 per kg), peppers, aubergines, cucumbers, and courgettes.
"If there's one fish that represents summer in Portugal, it's the sardine." – Take Walks
Sardines reach their peak in June and July, thanks to high plankton levels. Other summer seafood includes tuna, mahi-mahi, gilt-head bream, and octopus. These ingredients are perfect for grilling and pairing with fresh salads.
October - December: Chestnuts, Mushrooms, and Game
Autumn brings heartier options to the markets. Chestnuts, persimmons (dióspiro), pomegranates, apples, and pears dominate the fruit stands. Alcobaça apples, especially, are a highlight from August to November. On the vegetable side, pumpkins, squash, leafy greens, kale (nabiça), watercress, turnips, and beetroots are plentiful. Cabbage and cauliflower also make a comeback as the weather cools.
Seafood adjusts to the season as well. Sea bass and white seabream are back in abundance, and octopus moves closer to the coast. These ingredients are perfect for comforting dishes like roasted chestnuts, hearty soups with pumpkin and turnip greens (grelos), or seafood stews that are ideal for holiday gatherings.
How to Shop at Cascais Markets
Shopping at Cascais markets isn’t just about picking up groceries - it’s an opportunity to bring the freshest local ingredients to your table while supporting the community.
Top Markets for Seasonal Produce
If you're looking for fresh, seasonal ingredients, Mercado da Vila is the place to start. Originally opened in 1952 and revamped in 2014, this market runs from 06:30 to 17:00, Tuesday through Sunday. Within Mercado da Vila, the Mercado Saloio stands out, offering a selection of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and cheeses from the Saloia region every Wednesday and Saturday morning.
For those who prefer organic options, the Cascais Agrobio Market is held every Saturday morning at Parque Marechal Carmona. Here, you’ll find certified organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, and more. Back at Mercado da Vila, unique vendors like Marisco na Praça serve fresh seafood you can enjoy on-site, while Nãm Urban Farm offers mushrooms grown sustainably with recycled coffee grounds. For bulk nuts and dried fruit, check out Lugar dos Frutos Secos.
Market Name | Focus | Best Time to Visit |
Mercado da Vila | Fish, Produce, Meat, Flowers | 06:30 – 10:00 |
Mercado Saloio | Local Fruit, Veg, Cheese | Wednesday & Saturday mornings |
Agrobio Market | Organic Produce | Saturday mornings |
These markets provide everything you need for a successful shopping trip. Now, let’s dive into strategies for selecting the best ingredients.
Tips for Getting the Best Ingredients
To make the most of your visit, timing is everything. Arriving early - between 06:30 and 09:00 - ensures access to the freshest produce and seafood. If you’re after fish, keep in mind that most fishmongers begin wrapping up by 13:30.
For the liveliest market experience, plan your visit on Wednesday or Saturday mornings. During these times, the outdoor patio fills with additional vendors selling baked goods, cakes, and other regional delights. Don’t hesitate to chat with the vendors - they can guide you to the freshest and most in-season items. Look out for labels indicating produce from the Saloia region, a surefire way to identify high-quality, locally grown goods.
"The most important thing when it comes to eating fish is its freshness." – Time Out
At stalls like Marisco na Praça, you can personally choose your seafood before it’s prepared, giving you full control over the quality of your meal. Shopping here is more than a routine - it’s an experience that connects you to the heart of Cascais' culinary scene.
Using Seasonal Ingredients with Justin Jennings Private Chef
After a visit to the vibrant markets of Cascais, turn fresh, seasonal ingredients into unforgettable meals with the help of Justin Jennings Private Chef. From crafting a tailored menu to sourcing local produce and seafood, cooking on-site, and leaving your kitchen spotless, every detail is taken care of.
Menus Inspired by the Seasons
Justin Jennings creates menus that highlight the best of what each season has to offer. In the summer, you’ll find dishes featuring sardines, ripe stone fruits, and juicy tomatoes from Mercado da Vila. As autumn settles in, the menu shifts to heartier ingredients like chestnuts, with standout dishes such as his signature duck breast paired with fig compote and smoked carrots. Every menu is carefully designed to match the occasion, typically offering a 3 or 5 course dining experience, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This commitment ensures a one-of-a-kind culinary journey.
Tailored Dining for Every Occasion
The seasonal menus are just the start. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner for 10 or a larger event with up to 200 guests, the menus can be customised to suit your preferences. Have a favourite seasonal ingredient in mind, like Corvina in spring or figs in summer? Jennings seamlessly incorporates these into a menu that blends Portuguese traditions with Australian and Asian influences. With an average rating of 4.65/5 from over 3,255 reviews - food quality scoring 4.69/5 and cleanliness 4.8/5 - his service is highly praised. Prices start from €65 per person, depending on the group size and menu.
Comprehensive Event Catering
Justin Jennings’ service goes far beyond cooking. He handles every aspect of the dining experience, from menu planning and ingredient sourcing to on-site preparation, table service, and cleanup. Expect premium ingredients, whether it’s broad beans from Mercado da Vila on a Wednesday morning or freshly caught octopus from trusted local fishmongers. For peak seasons or special occasions, booking early is recommended for the best options and pricing. The service also accommodates dietary needs, making it perfect for weddings, bachelor parties, corporate retreats, or intimate dinners across Lisbon and Cascais.
"The chef creates a customized menu specifically for you, then goes out and sources the finest ingredients to bring your chosen dishes to life." – Take a Chef
Conclusion
Choosing seasonal ingredients in Cascais not only elevates the taste and nutritional value of your meals but also celebrates the region's rich food heritage. When you opt for peak-harvest produce, you enjoy more vibrant flavours while supporting local farmers and fishers who keep Cascais' agricultural traditions thriving. As Maddie from Chefs for Seniors puts it, "When you buy from local farmers and growers, your money stays within the community and is reinvested with other local businesses".
A visit to places like Mercado da Vila immerses you in the heart of Cascais' food culture. Since 1952, this market has been a cornerstone of the community, offering an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood, especially on bustling Wednesday and Saturday mornings. It's a chance to connect with the people and traditions that shape the region's culinary identity.
To take it a step further, Justin Jennings Private Chef turns these seasonal treasures into unforgettable dining experiences. With over 25 years of expertise and a unique fusion of Australian, Portuguese, and Asian influences, Justin crafts menus inspired by what's fresh each month. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner for ten or a grand event for 200, his service covers everything - from menu planning and ingredient sourcing to cooking and cleanup.
Embracing seasonal eating in Cascais offers more than just fresher, tastier food. It’s an invitation to engage with the local community, explore its traditions, and let the rhythm of the seasons inspire your kitchen. Visit the markets, meet the producers, and let Cascais' seasonal bounty shape your next meal.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Cascais markets for the freshest produce?
For the freshest seasonal produce, head to the Cascais markets right when they open at 6:30 am. Early birds get the pick of the crop, with the finest fruits, vegetables, and other locally sourced ingredients available before the hustle and bustle begins.
Arriving in the morning also means soaking up the vibrant energy of the market. Plus, you can chat with the vendors, who are often happy to share preparation tips and recipe ideas for their produce.
How can I use seasonal ingredients in my cooking in Cascais?
Using seasonal ingredients is a wonderful way to enjoy meals that are fresher and packed with flavour while appreciating the natural rhythm of Cascais' local produce. A great starting point is visiting a nearby mercado or mercearia to explore what fruits, vegetables, and herbs are currently in season. Not only does this ensure peak freshness, but it also supports local producers, lowers your carbon footprint, and aligns with the local € pricing.
Once you’ve selected your ingredients, let their natural flavours take centre stage. For instance, during autumn, you could turn pumpkin into a warming soup, enhanced with rosemary and finished with a drizzle of olive oil. In spring, fresh strawberries paired with a touch of local honey and a sprinkle of mint make for a simple yet delightful dessert. Quick cooking techniques like grilling or stir-frying are perfect for keeping vegetables crisp and vibrant, while a pinch of sea salt or a squeeze of lemon can add just the right finishing touch.
If you’d prefer to let someone else handle the planning and cooking, Justin Jennings Private Chef offers tailored menus that celebrate the best seasonal ingredients. From sourcing fresh produce at the market to crafting beautifully presented dishes, he brings the essence of Cascais to your table, whether it’s for an intimate gathering or a larger celebration.
What are the benefits of buying seasonal ingredients in Cascais?
Buying seasonal ingredients in Cascais means enjoying fresher, tastier produce that truly showcases the essence of Portuguese cuisine. When fruits and vegetables are picked at their peak, they not only deliver better flavour but also pack more nutrients.
Beyond the taste and health benefits, opting for seasonal ingredients helps support local farmers and markets, boosting the regional economy. It also reduces the environmental footprint by cutting down on the need for importing out-of-season products. It's a fantastic way to celebrate Cascais' rich culinary heritage while crafting menus that highlight the freshest ingredients available each month.
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