A great health tip is to eat fruit and vegetables when they’re in season, simply because seasonal food tastes better. As a bonus, you’ll be giving your body the kind of nutrition it needs, at the time of year that it needs it the most.
Let’s take a look at what foods are at their freshest and best, season by season.
Spring (September – November)
Asparagus, beetroot and peas are in their prime in spring. Cook them with a pinch of salt and add a squeeze of lemon juice if you need a little extra zing. When buying asparagus, check its freshness by rubbing it. If it squeaks, it’s fresh. If not, put it back.
Strawberries and tangelos begin to appear at the greengrocer’s in spring. Snap them up while they’re at their freshest and most nutritious. They’re the perfect snack or dessert.
Summer (December – February)
In summer, tomatoes, cucumbers and capsicum really come into their own. Wash them, cut them up, add some fresh herbs and you’ll have the perfect side dish.
Summer is the season for fruit lovers. Apricots, blackberries, cherries, peaches, raspberries, rock melon, honeydew melon, watermelon – there’s something to please everyone. Eat these fruits in summer. Your taste buds will thank you.
Autumn (March – May)
As the days get shorter and cooler, it’s time for comforting soups made from the season’s best: pumpkin, buttercup squash and mushrooms. Packed with nutrition, these vegetables will help you adjust to the change in temperature.
Although apples are available all year round (thanks to modern storage methods), the best time to eat them is when they’ve been freshly harvested in the autumn. They’re extra crunchy and extra tasty. Don’t forget feijoas, green kiwifruit or persimmons. Each of these is at its best at this time of year.
Winter (June – August)
It’s tempting to eat heavy foods in the winter. Balance out the comfort foods with seasonal vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and daikon radish (an Asian vegetable that’s high in potassium and vitamin C).
Citrus fruits are fabulous in winter. Get your fill of grapefruits, limes, navel oranges and tamarillos. Yum!
If you need more inspiration for healthy eating, contact me. I am a qualified nutrition coach as well as a personal trainer. I have lots of healthy recipes that I’d like to share with you, whatever the season.
