Summer is the season for fresh, healthy eating. With an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables, it’s the perfect time to fill your plate with colorful, nutrient-rich foods. Here is an A to Z guide to healthy summer eating.
A – Avocado
Avocado is a versatile and nutritious fruit that is packed with healthy fats. It’s a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.
B – Berries
Berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are low in calories and high in fiber and antioxidants. They’re perfect for snacking, adding to yogurt or oatmeal, or using in homemade sauces and jams.
C – Cucumber
Cucumbers are a refreshing and hydrating vegetable that make a great addition to salads or can be eaten as a snack. They’re low in calories and high in fiber, making them a perfect summer food.
D – Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a delicious treat that is also loaded with antioxidants. It has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and brain function.
E – Eggplant
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be grilled, roasted, or used in place of meat in dishes like eggplant parmesan. It’s low in calories and high in fiber and antioxidants.
F – Fish
Fish, such as salmon and tuna, are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats. They’re also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
G – Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a delicious way to add nutrition and flavor to your summer meals. Zucchini, peppers, and onions are perfect for grilling and can be served as a side dish or added to salads and sandwiches.
H – Herbs
Herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro are a great way to add flavor to your summer dishes without adding calories or sodium. They’re also rich in antioxidants and other nutrients.
I – Ice Cream (Healthy Version)
Ice cream is a classic summer treat, but it can be high in sugar and calories. Try making a healthy version of ice cream using frozen bananas, almond milk, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
J – Jicama
Jicama is a crunchy, low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber and vitamin C. It’s perfect for adding crunch to salads or for dipping in hummus or salsa.
K – Kale
Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green that’s a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. It’s perfect for salads or can be used in smoothies or as a substitute for lettuce in sandwiches.
L – Lemons
Lemons are a great source of vitamin C and can be used to add flavor to water, salads, or homemade dressings and sauces.
M – Mango
Mango is a sweet and juicy fruit that’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s great for snacking or adding to salads and smoothies.
N – Nectarines
Nectarines are a juicy, low-calorie fruit that’s rich in fiber and vitamins A and C. They’re perfect for snacking or adding to salads and desserts.
O – Oranges
Oranges are a great source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. They’re perfect for snacking or for making homemade juices and smoothies.
P – Peaches
Peaches are a sweet and juicy fruit that’s perfect for summer. They’re a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium.
Q – Quinoa
Quinoa is a protein-packed whole grain that’s perfect for salads, side dishes, or as a substitute for rice or pasta. It’s also high in fiber and other nutrients.
R – Raspberries
Raspberries are a low-calorie fruit that’s rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They’re perfect for snacking, adding to yogurt, or using in baked goods.
S – Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense root vegetable that’s a great source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They’re perfect for roasting, mashing, or using in soups and stews.
T – Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a versatile fruit that’s perfect for summer. They’re a good source of vitamin C and lycopene, which has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
U – Ugli Fruit
Ugli fruit, also known as Jamaican tangelo, is a citrus fruit that’s a hybrid of grapefruit, orange, and tangerine. It’s rich in vitamin C and has a sweet, tangy flavor.
V – Vegetable Kabobs
Vegetable kabobs are a tasty and nutritious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms are perfect for kabobs and can be grilled or roasted.
W – Watermelon
Watermelon is a refreshing and hydrating fruit that’s perfect for summer. It’s a good source of vitamins A and C and lycopene.
X – Xigua
Xigua, also known as Chinese watermelon, is a juicy fruit that’s high in vitamins A and C and potassium. It’s perfect for adding to salads or for eating as a snack.
Y – Yogurt
Yogurt is a great source of protein and probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. It’s perfect for adding to smoothies or for using in dressings and sauces.
Z – Zucchini
Zucchini is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable that’s perfect for summer. It’s high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can be grilled, roasted, or used in salads.