When many people think of summertime foods, fresh fruits and grilled meats are some of the first things that come to mind. However, there are also lots of vegetables that are in-season in the summer and that make delicious and healthy additions to any meal.
Here are some summer recipe ideas to help you embrace the veggie lifestyle this season.
Summer Vegetables to Try
Before we get into the recipe suggestions, here are some of the best vegetables to focus on in the summertime. Take a walk through your local farmer’s market to see what’s available in your area, and consider trying something new that is not part of your normal routine.
- Bell Peppers
- Carrots
- Zucchini
- Corn
- Rhubarb
- Cucumbers
- Beets
- Radishes
Easy Summer Vegetable Bake
This is an easy recipe that helps you make the most of all the summer vegetables you’ve bought at the farmer’s market. It makes about four servings and is an excellent side dish for dinners at home and even picnics.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 medium-sized zucchini, chopping
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp. fresh basil
- 1 tbsp. fresh cilantro
DIRECTIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl (except basil and cilantro)
- Transfer ingredients into a baking dish
- Bake until golden brown
- Top with basil and cilantro before serving
Carrot and Fruit Summer Salad
Instead of mayonnaise-based salads that are full of fat and calories, you can opt for healthier versions of these picnic favorites by substituting Greek yogurt. Here’s a great way to use fresh summer carrots alongside organic fruits for a flavorful lunch or side dish.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 fresh organic carrots, thinly sliced into strips
- ½ cup fresh organic apple, diced
- ¼ cup organic grapes, diced
- ½ cup fresh organic pineapple, diced
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp. organic sugar
- ¼ tsp. salt
DIRECTIONS:
- Combine fruits and vegetables in a bowl
- Add yogurt, sugar, and salt to mixture
- Mix thoroughly with a spoon
- Cover bowl and put in refrigerator to chill
- Serve and enjoy!
Other Ways to Enjoy Summer Vegetables
Even if you aren’t into cooking or don’t have time to try out new recipes, there are still lots of great ways to get more vegetables into your summer days. Try slicing up cucumbers or baby carrots and dipping them into hummus for a healthy snack. Many vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, work well on kabobs that you make out on the grill with skewers for fun appetizers. Spinach salads topped with lots of raw veggies are also a summertime staple that make a perfectly light and healthy lunch.
What are your favorite vegetables to eat in the summertime? Share with us in the comment section below.