Warm days mean fresh summer foods. Wondering what foods can help you feel your best all summer long? Eating well and keeping yourself hydrated is important to keep yourself ready and energized for summer activities. B.Komplete Registered Dietitian Nutritionists can help you learn more about these foods for when you’re having fun in the sun!
Summer Foods
Watermelon: The perfect fruit to keep you hydrated without a whole lot of calories. Check out this watermelon feta mint salad!
Berries: Blueberries. Raspberries. Blackberries. Jam packed with fiber and antioxidants. Toss them in your plain yogurt or oatmeal for some added natural sweetness. Want to try berries in a delicious savory dish? Try this recipe for grilled salmon and blueberry sauce!
Tomatoes: Rich in an antioxidant called, lycopene and perfect tossed in a salad or to simply enjoy alone (especially grape tomatoes).
Avocados: Yes, you should eat fat! Especially the heart-healthy fats in avocados to keep you satisfied as well as add some creaminess to your dishes. Try swapping out butter or cream cheese for ¼ of a mashed avocado on your toast/bagel. How about making a delicious creamy avocado sauce for your pasta or “zoodles”?
Corn: Get the local grown corn and throw it on the grill for some sweet BBQ crunch! You gain 4 grams of fiber in just ½ cup of kernels. Click here to learn more about your local farms. Learn more about eating organic and fresh foods here.
Zucchini: This vitamin C-rich veggie is perfect for grilling or making “zoodles”. The Food Networkhas wonderful recipe ideas. Love Pad Thai? Try this lighter version that uses “zoodles.” Click here to purchase for a budget-friendly spiralizer to make your “zoodles”.
Nuts: A good source of healthy fats, protein, fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Try a small handful of dry-roasted unsalted almonds, cashews, walnuts or pistachio as an on-the go or pre-workout snack.
Want to try multiple summer-friendly foods all in one dish? Try this grilled corn, watermelon and avocado salad! Substitute the apple or celery for jicama if you are having trouble finding it.
Resources
Interested to learn more about seasonal foods and how to enjoy summer food? Below are links to help guide you:
https//snaped.fns.usda.gov/seasonal-produce-guide
http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/whats-in-season-summer