Sticking with Seasonal Foods: Summer

Get with the times! The seasonal times, that is! Eating seasonal foods is cheaper, healthier, and better for the environment! Learn how to eat in summer!

Summer is when the weather gets warmer, it is important to stay hydrated outside in the warm sun. Read below for some fruits and vegetables with a high-water content that keep you hydrated all summer.

Knowing when fruits and vegetables are in season is beneficial for many reasons such as being cheaper, fresher, and having more nutrients. Think about it: Foods that are in season won’t have to travel far and wide from countries around the world to get to you. They will be harvested closer to when they are at their peak instead of before. Furthermore, buying seasonal foods reduces our carbon footprint. They are better for the environment as they don’t have to be transported from another country.

Did you know that by eating seasonal foods you would most likely consume a wider variety of foods? If you change up what you eat according to what is in season, you won’t be eating the same fruits and vegetables day in and day out.

Try checking out your local farmers’ market to find fruits and vegetables that are in season in your area. If you prefer to shop at a grocery store, be aware of what is in season during that time before you go shopping.

Remember that what is in season will vary depending on what part of the world you live in. This is based on North America.

1. Peaches

When I think of summer, I definitely think of peaches. They are in season July through September and are very refreshing on a hot summer day. Peaches can be grilled and topped with a little pure maple syrup, added to salads, or used to make a peach smoothie.

2.Watermelon

Another fruit that I think of when I think of summer is watermelon. It is also in season July through September and is a great treat by the pool. They have high water content and are therefore fantastic to cool off and re-hydrate.

3. Plums

Plums are either Japanese or European. Both of these types can be eaten, but if you want to cook with them, you should use the European prune types. Look for plums that have good color and are free of bruises and blemishes. Plums are best eaten in whole form, used in salads or on your waffles, pancakes, or cereals.

4. Strawberries

Strawberries grown in the summer have a short season, which is June and July. These berries are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Make sure to buy organic strawberries as nonorganic strawberries are frequently sprayed with a large number of pesticides.

5. Summer squash

Summer squash is great to use from June through October. Zucchini is a popular variety as well as yellow squash. Summer Crookneck, Pattypan, and Vegetable Marrow are other varieties to look out for in the grocery store or at your local farmers’ market. Summer squash is an excellent lower-carbohydrate alternative to using noodles as you can spiralize zucchini and yellow squash into “noodles” and top with anything you would love on top of your pasta. They can be eaten raw or lightly sautéed to maintain their nutritional benefits and taste.

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