One of the first things I learned through Nutritional Therapy is the importance of seasonal eating. Seasonal eating means enjoying the foods of the season- those that are the ripest, most nutritious, and tastiest.
For example, Fall seasonal foods are different than those of the Spring. And each season provides various nutrients and benefits. Luckily, in my opinion, Summer brings some of the sweetest, yummiest foods. We’re talking about a variety of juicy fruits and sweet vegetables, meant to be enjoyed raw or cooked.
In effort to encourage seasonal eating, I wanted to share my 5 favorite foods of Summer. Of course, these Sumer favorites are local to my area of South Texas. So, if you’re in New York, California, or anywhere far from Texas, it’s important to search for your local seasonal foods on the Seasonal Food Guide!
I have to say, following this principle has proven to be an instrumental factor in my health. And I know it can be for yours, too! These are the top 5 foods I’ll be snackin’ on this Summer, and my favorite recipes to go along:
Basil
I really love cooking with basil because of it’s fresh, strong flavor. Better yet, it’s rich in vitamins, like K and A. I add basil to my salads and egg scrambles, or on top of a grass-fed burger! You can even add basil to Summer cocktails and spritzers for extra flavor and nutrients.
Recipe: Last-Minute Basil Cauliflower Salad
Carrots
I recently realized I have a thing for orange foods- specifically, carrots and sweet potatoes. Carrots are a Summer root vegetables, so you bet I steadily enjoy them during the season. Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, Vitamin A, and fiber, which can help with immune function and vision. Hello, 20/20 vision and glowing skin!
Recipe: Parsley & Garlic Carrot Fries
Watermelon
Fresh watermelon is probably my favorite Summer treat. It has high water content which makes for a very refreshing snack on a hot, Summer day! Watermelons are also rich in antioxidants, potassium, and magnesium.
Recipe: I enjoy raw watermelon as a frequent Summer snack. You can also try freezing watermelon cubes for a quick, cool option. Or add frozen watermelon to your morning smoothie or evening margarita!
Pears
I love pears- almost as much as watermelon! But, unlike watermelon, pears can be eaten raw or cooked. I like them both ways! Pears are packed with fiber and flavonoids, making them nutritious and easy to digest.
Recipe: Paleo Butter Squash & Pear Breakfast Hash
Tomatoes
Last, but not least, tomatoes. In my opinion, tomatoes are one of the most versatile fruits. Raw, roasted, grilled, or sautéed, they’re always so tasty! Tomatoes are very high in antioxidants, various vitamins, and fiber. During the Summer months, I eat them raw and ripe with a little sea salt, in a Caprese salad with raw mozzarella and balsamic, or chopped up in my favorite guacamole recipe (see below).
Recipe: Bacon Holy Guacamole
Although these are some of my favorite Summer foods, this is just the starting list! Additional Summer foods include: all berries (strawberries, blackberries, blueberries), sweet corn (only locally-grown and organic), arugula, melons, potatoes, figs, grapefruits, cherries, peaches, cucumbers, plums, beets. Is your mouth watering yet?
I would love to know your favorite seasonal foods, and more importantly, your favorite Summer recipes. Share in the comments below!
