Everyone loves summer for the trips to the beach, jumping in the pool, and those backyard barbecues. And while meat is surely the star, the fruits and vegetables that are in season during summer are nothing to sneeze at either. In fact, they can outshine the other offerings at any gathering or even be the main event at tonight’s dinner.
Which fruits and vegetables are best in summer? Read on to find out!
- Peaches
They’re juicy and sweet, perfect to bite into on a hot day. Those refreshing peaches are best enjoyed fresh-picked in the shade but they’ll also do just fine made into pies, jams, sliced onto salads, or even paired with cheeses and wine.
- Citrus
In particular, lemons and limes are best at this time of year. That’s not too surprising since lemonade seems to be the official beverage of summer. Skip the sugary store-bought junk and make your own from by squeezing them fresh. Try mixing lemons and limes together for an even more amazing flavor.
- Watermelon
Few things are more refreshing than watermelon on a hot summer day. You can make it next-level though by scooping it out with your melon-baller and putting it into the freezer. It’s as sweet and delightful as ice cream without any of the guilt!
- Berries
Summer is indeed the time for berries. Perk up water and get your fill of it by adding berries to it. Make pies, toss them onto spinach salads with goat cheese and walnuts, or just enjoy them as-is.
- Carrots
Most of us can find carrots year-round but in summer, they’re in their prime. Add them to soups or take a page from our ginger post and simmer them in ginger water for a healthy, slightly spiced kick. Drizzle with raw organic honey for a healthy dish with the sweetness you crave.
- Peppers
Pick peppers and you won’t be sorry! Sweet peppers are all the rage during summer in their vibrant colors of red, orange, yellow and green. Cut them onto salads, grill them with beef or chicken, or use them to dip with hummus for a party appetizer that will delight!
- Cucumbers
Cooling and soothing cucumbers are wonderful for hot, sticky summers. Make a cucumber salad that refreshes or use cucumbers in place of bread for a carb-free sandwich. You can add them to just about anything for an added dose of flavor and nutrients.
- Zucchini
Grilling out? Brush zucchini sliced lengthwise with olive oil and toss it on the grill. It’s a game-changer!
- Tomatoes
Juicy and bursting with flavor, every variety of tomato is in season right now. So grab a mixture of them and try them out. Those little grape ones are amazing skewered with mozzarella balls and fresh basil for a finger-food that will win over everyone at your next gathering.
Be sure you take a big bite out of summer’s offerings before they’re out of season!