Fruits and Veggies to Eat Now!
No doubt about it, Mother Nature does some of her best work during the summer months when fresh local produce abounds at farmers markets and grocery stores. True, these days most fruits and vegetables are available year round, but eating in-season means more flavorful foods that are likely less expensive. And if you're down with the whole "locavore" movement-eating items grown or raised within 100 miles of your home to decrease your carbon footprint-there's no better time to get started! Growing seasons vary depending on what zone of the country you live in, but here are a few of our favorites that are ripe for the picking in many spots right about now:
Watermelon What better way to cool down on a hot summer day than with a slice of juicy watermelon. Choose one that's symmetrical in shape and free from dents and bruises. They're low in calories at 46 per cup, and an excellent source of potassium and vitamins A and C.
Strawberries The possibilities are endless with these sweet treats! For a delicious breakfast, spoon sliced strawberries over vanilla yogurt and top with granola. Select strawberries that are deep red in color with bright green leaves. One cup of fresh strawberries has 49 calories, and is a great source of dietary fiber, potassium and vitamin C.
Asparagus For an easy summer side dish try tossing trimmed asparagus in olive oil and sprinkling with salt and pepper-then grill for 5 minutes and enjoy! When choosing asparagus, make sure the tips are tight and dry, and stalks are uniform in size. At 40 calories per cup, asparagus is the perfect choice for the calorie conscious. It's also high in dietary fiber, niacin, potassium and vitamins A and C.
Tomatoes Oh how we love tomatoes in the summer. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over tomato slices and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a tasty treat! Select tomatoes that are deep red in color without bruises and never refrigerate them - it kills the flavor, texture and nutrients. One cup of tomatoes has 27 calories and is an excellent source of potassium, dietary fiber and vitamins A, B6 and C.
String (Snap) Beans For a yummy side, serve steamed with a pat of butter, salt and pepper. The best tasting string beans will be small, velvety looking and bright green in color. Fresh beans should "snap" when you bend them - hence the name! One cup has 60 calories and is high in fiber and vitamins A and C.
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