SPRING THINGS 3
I can’t reiterate enough, how glad I am that it is SPRING
Although, currently we are far from the feelings of progression that usually characterizes Springtime, we can still celebrate the change in small ways.
One of the best ways to celebrate a season…. is to eat for the season!
Awaken your body and indulge in a natural detox from high protein, high fat, winter favorites, by adopting a veggie forward, seasonal produce-heavy diet.
So, what’s in season?
Here is a general list of items you could source at your supermarket or local store.
I linked fun, nutritious ways to prepare these items easily, as side components to your meals.
I hope these recipes provide you with some inspiration…
Arugula
Asparagus
Beets
Bok choy
Chard
Collard greens
Herbs
Leeks
Peas
Radishes
Snap peas
Spring onions
Watercress
Artichokes
Avocado
Broccoli
Apricots
Pineapple
Mango
Strawberries
Carrots
Lemons
Mushrooms
Kale
If you want to get even more specific, check out seasonalfoodguide.org for a list of what is in season and available in your state. Some farm stands and local produce suppliers are still continuing to operate amidst social distancing
In addition to that, I’ve also included ways to SPRING up your breakfast, lunch and dinner.
SPRING up your breakfast:
Lighten it up:
Make a smoothie instead of your usual routine.
Buy frozen fruit or chop and freeze for later, organize fruit in small “grab and go” pouches for easy smoothie making access.
Add greek yogurt and your favorite milk in addition to help the drink become less thick.
Make a breakfast salad
Reheat last night’s roasted veggies, chop up some avocado, and add them to a base of fresh arugula. Top with an egg.
Easy additions:
Add leeks in a scramble or omelet for extra spring flavor.
Accompany your oatmeal with dried apricot or strawberries
Mix frozen mango in with your morning yogurt
SPRING up your lunch
Lighten it up:
Pack your lunch with produce!
Accompany your lunch with low-sugar vegetables + fruits like broccoli or strawberries
Easy additions:
Add herbs to your sandwiches and salads
Make an olive oil, red wine vinegar and minced herb dressing
Add dill to yogurt and use it as a spread for a veggie sandwich or as a dip
Toss cilantro into any salad for freshness
Use basil as an addition to a Caprese sandwich or salad
SPRING up your dinner
Lighten it up:
Replace a grain base with seasonal vegetables and herbs
Create a “salad version” to help hydrate starchy meals
Opt for an alternative sauce or marinade for protein
Eat mindfully, especially at night, for good sleep and an even better morning
Easy additions:
Squeeze in notes of lemon to your favorite “heavier” dishes to add zest and lightness
Make your side salad with mostly in-season produce to accompany your meal
Prepare some springtime vegetables, by roasting or sautéing, and add them to a big pot of pasta!
Now with all this information, discover ways on your own!
Once you get more comfortable, you can create your meals based around in-season produce and not just as an afterthought….
Continue exploring by incorporating herbal, bright flavors by mixing them into your favorite comfort staples;
because who are we kidding, it’s still kinda cold out...