Spring Produce: Eat in Season

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Many times we get stuck in the same habits. We frequent the same coffee shop, wake up at a certain time, and tend to eat the same variety of foods over and over. This spring, I’d like to challenge you to eat in a new way: in season.

There are many reasons why you should eat in season. One reason is that you’ll receive the most nutritional benefits from your produce when it’s in season. The farmer doesn’t have to find ways outside of nature to grow and ripen the plant, and the plant will naturally thrive when it’s in season. Another reason you should eat seasonal produce is that you can save on your grocery bill. Most grocery stores, and even farmer’s markets, will have specials featuring bulk pricing for seasonal produce.

So, what’s in season during the Spring months? Well, I’m glad you asked because I just happen to have a list of some popular spring produce. I narrowed it down to 5 because I can write a novel on this topic.

Broccoli– Now, this is a staple in our house. My kids are crazy about broccoli. Their favorite way to eat it is raw. I’m happy with that because it’s one less thing I have to cook, and they are enjoying all the enzymes of raw vegetables. Broccoli is high in Vitamin A, B1, folate, and Vitamin C. It’s also a good source of antioxidants. Enjoy this vegetable raw with your favorite veggie dip or lightly steamed.

Swiss Chard– We love greens in our house. Well, let me rephrase that: I love putting greens in everything I possibly can, and Swiss chard is no exception. I love packing our green juices and green smoothies with this beauty. It’s also really easy to grow in a backyard garden. Swiss chard is an excellent source of vitamins K, A, magnesium, and iron.

Citrus– Citrus fruit is super affordable in the springtime. I recently bought a 15-pound bag of oranges for $4, and now we have a 15-pound bag of grapefruit that we scored for 4 bucks. Many of us are familiar with the outstanding amount of Vitamin C in citrus fruit, but citrus fruits also give your body calcium, Vitamin A, and potassium. These fruits are enjoyed by the whole family when sliced, but we also will throw in a citrus fruit when juicing our vegetables for a sweet and tangy addition.

Avocados– I love how avocados have become the new kale. Many of us are discovering the countless health reasons to eat these delicious fruits. Avocados are a healthy source of fat and fiber. Avocados also contain potassium and antioxidants. They can be used for much more than guacamole: you can make avocado toast, throw some in your smoothie, or top your favorite salad with this fruit.

Asparagus– Asparagus is another fun vegetable to have around your table in the spring. Asparagus contains Vitamins A, C, E, magnesium, zinc and iron. Asparagus can easily be cooked in the oven with simple seasonings or lemon slices. Get the kids involved by letting them tear off the woodsy ends before cooking!

There are plenty of other spring fruits and vegetables to choose from, but this is a good place to start. Find what your family enjoys, and try out a new one each time you hit the market.

What are some of your favorite spring produce?