Warm Weather Ingredients that Highlight the Sunny Season
The spring is here and summer is approaching and many of you are eager to get on the beach and in the sun. Aside from spring and summer being the seasons for sun and sand, they are also the seasons in which fresh produce is at its peak. Many people, including myself, associate the warm sunny months with freshly peeled kiwis and bright pink watermelon wedges. Along with these summer staples are an array of fresh ingredients that highlight the sunny season.
Here are some of my favorites:
Arugula & Spinach: These dark leafy greens work great in salads. Arugula in particular is best when the weather is mild. These greens are great for the warm months because they pair perfectly with other fresh summer ingredients, such as lemon, avocado, pears and walnuts. Use any combination of these ingredients to make a nice refreshing salad!
Asparagus: April is the peak of asparagus season. This vegetable is nutrient dense, containing potassium, folate and vitamins E, A and C. What is great about asparagus during the summer months is it tastes great when steamed or grilled and makes for a healthy side dish for summer barbecues!
Lemons and Limes: These citrus fruits are warm weather staples! They can be squeezed into water or seltzer to make a refreshing drink, used in marinades for chicken or even mixed with other ingredients to create a zesty light salad dressing. Lemons are also loaded with health benefits including aiding in digestion, boosting the immune system and they are a rich source of vitamin C.
Apricots, Strawberries, Mango, Kiwi, Pears, Berries and Watermelon: These fruits are the freshest during the spring and summer months. Fresh fruit is one of the best foods to snack on while at the beach or hanging out by the pool. Add strawberries and pears to your favorite salad or use any of these fruits to make a cold fruit smoothie!
Rhubarb: Rhubarb resembles a celery stalk but is pink in color. It is freshest in the spring time and has a somewhat tart flavor, which makes it a good way to cut sugar in dessert recipes. Its tart fruitiness also compliments the flavors in savory dishes, and pairs nicely with pork and poultry. Rhubarb stalks contain calcium, vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants.
Avocado: While many types of avocados are available year round, this fruit pairs well with some of our favorite warm weather foods. It adds essential vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids to any salad and are great when used as a topping for burgers or sandwiches. Avocados are also used to make guacamole. Mix with some salsa and lime juice to create a delicious and filling dip!
Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs into any of your summer meals. Basil, parsley, mint, cilantro, rosemary and lavender are a few that add refreshing flavor and aroma to any dish. Many of these herbs can be easily grown in your own backyard. Enjoy the smell of fresh basil in your garden and have access to it all summer long!
Each of these flavorful ingredients embraces the warm weather and provides you with rich sources of nutrients to get you through the hot summer months!
Your turn to take action: What are some of your favorite spring and summer ingredients?
All those foods sound scrumptious! I am very fortunate that in the area that I live there are many farms and a ton of fruit/ veggie stands on almost every corner. I’m getting excited just thinking about it. The stand I most frequent has amazing strawberries, tomatoes and squashes. I am not a huge fan of lemons, although I have been putting them in my water everyday. I can’t wait for summer for all the delicious foods that come with it.
~ Jodene
Hi Jodene, I too can’t wait for the delicious summer fruits. especially the berries which are my favorite!