July 16, 2018

Hope your summer is off to a great start! Summer is a time for sun, fun and delicious seasonal vegetables. Whether you’re grilling out or making a fresh salad, there are so many wonderful summer veggies to choose from. Which are your favorite?

Have you ever wondered why certain vegetables are more abundant in certain seasons?  I find it amazing how nature’s produce cycle actually supports our body’s needs and gently leads us from season to season. For example, our bodies require more water in the summer months, and summer vegetables, such as zucchini, tomatoes, and cucumbers, help us stay hydrated and cool. In the fall, transition veggies, such as root vegetables, help us acclimate to the upcoming cooler months. Pretty neat, right?

There are many reasons to eat seasonally (and locally, if you can). Seasonal eating is kinder to the environment, requiring fewer pesticides and chemicals to nurture growth. Eating within the season also reduces the need for preservatives. Seasonal foods are grown locally, which reduces fuel and transportation costs – often called “food mileage” or “food’s carbon footprint.” And, if it’s not being shipped from where the veggies are in season (most likely from overseas), it doesn’t contain overseas contaminates –  just because a pesticide is illegal in the U.S. doesn’t mean foreign countries have the same policies on produce. In addition, seasonal veggies can grow naturally in optimal weather, providing more antioxidants for our good health. And it just tastes better when it’s naturally grown and harvested at the right time!

Here’s a list of delicious vegetables to enjoy this summer:

For the nutritional value of more seasonal vegetables in your region, check out the Seasonal Food Guide. https://www.seasonalfoodguide.org/