GET SUMMER HEALTHY WITH FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES!

As spring turns to summer, this is the perfect time to get healthy in the kitchen. Spring and summer means that gardens and farms come alive with fresh fruit and vegetables, just waiting to be picked and eaten. While working out can help you get healthy here at Old Town Athletic Club, it’s important to also focus on getting healthy at home. Summer fruits and vegetables can help!

Find a farmers market

Your local farmers market can be a one-stop shop to get healthy with seasonal fruits and vegetables. Here in Warrenton, we are lucky to have many local farmers market options. In addition to fresh produce, some farmers markets sell jams, bread, local meat and more.

What is in season?

Choosing to eat in-season fruits and vegetables isn’t just good for the environment, it’s also good for your taste buds! Some farms even allow you to pick your own produce, which adds to the freshness and the fun.

Four of our favorite seasonal finds are:

Strawberries are at their sweetest from April through June, although some varieties are available all summer long. These sweet fruits can be eaten on their own or as part of a recipe.
Asparagus is in peak season through June and is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Peas are a great way to add crunch to a meal and are often a favorite vegetable for kids. Look for fresh, local peas in May and June.
Spinach, lettuce and other leafy greens are at their best in the spring and fall, when the weather is cooler. Look for fresh greens at your local farmers market.

Healthy recipes for spring

Once you’ve selected your favorite spring fruits and vegetables, what’s your favorite way to enjoy them?

Here are three recipes to get you started:

Leek, asparagus and herb soup
Easy, breezy, pea(sy) salad
Chicken, radish and green garlic stir fry
Click here to find more information about local food in our region.
Consult with our nutrition coach, Diana Best, to learn more about which fruits and vegetables are right for you. Diane will help you create a dietary plan that tastes as good as it’ll make you feel, based on your nutritional needs and tastes. Stop in to schedule an appointment with Diana next time you are at Old Town Athletic Club, or call us today at 540-349-2791.

Don’t forget to combine your foods for proper absorption of nutrients, to regulate your insulin and to help you feel satisfied for longer. Always have a protein, some healthy fat and and a seasonal fruit and/or veggie at every meal!