Summer is Colorful, Nutritious, and Delicious
In our opinion, summer is the absolute BEST time to be a cook. Don't enjoy cooking? Not to worry. The bounty of produce that summer brings makes it a dream for even the most novices of chefs to create colorful, nutritious and delicious meals all season long.
What's in season?
Summer corn that is perfect for grilling, luscious greens and juicy tomatoes, just right for a plentiful salad and plump berries, perfect for your pies and cobblers. Freshly picked produce that is eaten at its peak ripeness offers the most flavor when it is allowed to ripen naturally by the sun. The longer sun exposure also increases the amount of antioxidants, giving it even more of a nutritional boost! The summer can also be a great time to get to know your local farmer at the market or join a CSA to try new fruits and veggies! Choosing local and seasonal foods also increases the chances of finding organic options that are free of pesticides and other chemical preservatives. Eating seasonally is the perfect way to stay hydrated and cool during the intense summer heat.
Here's what to look out for:
Leafy Greens health benefits includes improving digestive health, maintaining weak eyesight, balancing cholesterol levels, enhancing youthful skin, treating anemia, strengthening thescalp, fighting free radicals, supporting cardiovascular health, promoting weight loss, boosting energy levels, and increasing lifespan.
Berries have high levels of phytochemicals which are naturally occurring nutrients that help protect cells from damage.
Peaches, and other stone fruits, are high in potassium which is essential for muscle function. Peaches also work to make the skin healthier and offer vision-supporting nutrients.
Apricots support healthy heart and eye function. Their fiber content will help keep you regular and can aid in managing healthy cholesterol. Eaten prior to a meal, apricots can aid in digestion.
Plums contain antioxidants which can fight off free radical damage, protect the skin and promote good health. Plums are rich in potassium and fiber, which is beneficial for muscle function, regularity and keeping cholesterol down.