Summer is upon us, as well as some summer bummer bugs (aka colds and illnesses). For this reason, we are happy to feature 5 beautiful, nutritionally packed super foods that are also wonderfully in season.
Spinach - this dark green leafy veggie is jam packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and vitamins that help promote bone and vision health. If it is eaten raw, spinach provides a body with the Vitamins A, C, and K, and calcium, iron, and folic acid. Serving suggestions? Walnut, Strawberry, and Spinach salad, Spinach Greens topped with Egg Salad, or a frittata with spinach, mushroom, and feta.
Red Bell Peppers - one red pepper provides 140% of your DRV of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is vital to vision health and is key in fighting off viral infections. Red Peppers also are packed with Vitamin C. Serving suggestions? Red Pepper slices on Bleu Cheese burgers, a colorful topping to any summer salad, a tangy, sweet addition to home made salsa, or simply sliced and eaten with ranch dressing.
Blueberries - blueberries are notorious for the amount of antioxidants they contain to protect against free radicals. But they also contain cancer-fighting compounds and a ridiculous amount of Vitamin C. On top of that, the anthocyanins (the stuff that makes blueberries blue) are shown to slow the aging process, protect the heart, and improve memory. Serving suggestions? Blueberry, Watermelon, and Coconut salad, Blueberry Lemon Scones, or Blueberry BBQ sauce.
Lemons - a natural immune system booster, lemons contain over 1/3 of the DRV of Vitamin C and other antioxidants (flavonoids). Flavonoids decrease the risk of heart disease, act as an anti-inflammatory, and fight of some cancers. Serving suggestions? Homemade lemonade or Minted lemon water, Lemon chicken piccata, or simply spritzing fresh lemon juice over your fruit salads to keep them from browning or over your green salads to give them a perking up.
Cherries - Cherries are a summer crop that are super packed with super nutrition. They contain anthocyanins that help regulate the immune systems response and act as an anti-inflammatory. They are also a pain relieving food. Serving suggestions? Cherry, Walnut, Chicken salad, Cherry-Berry cobbler, or Cherry, balsamic marinade for your grill meats.
Boost your system and enjoy the grilling season through nature's bounty!