Why is it important to eat in season? It is important not only for our own health, but also for the health of our planet. Oftentimes produce that is not in season, travels long distances, decreasing its freshness. Furthermore, produce is often picked prematurely to prevent spoilage, causing vitamin degradation and nutrient loss. Common methods of transporting produce contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Even current farming practices strip the soil of minerals, which can have an effect on our health due to mineral deficiencies. Furthermore, increased use of chemicals and pesticides are dangerous to our health, and the health of our planet. Moral of the story? Eat local and eat seasonal produce.
10 Recipes for 30 Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables
- Buddha Bowls and Tahini Sauce with Onions, Cabbage, Potatoes, Squash, and Brussels Sprouts from http://www.yummymummykitchen.com/2016/11/sheet-pan-winter-buddha-bowls-with.html
- Apple Pear Salad with Honey Cilantro Vinaigrette from http://www.isabeleats.com/apple-pear-salad-with-honey-cilantro-vinaigrette/ Add or substitute kale with lettuce or spinach*
- Soft Banana Raspberry Oatmeal Cookies from http://curlsnchard.com/2015/02/27/soft-banana-raspberry-oatmeal-cookies/
- Pumpkin Stuffed with Herbed Apple Couscous from https://www.31daily.com/pumpkin-stuffed-with-herbed-apple-couscous/
- Beet Hummus with Celery and Sweet Peppers from http://jessicainthekitchen.com/beet-hummus/
- Roasted Sweet Potato and Cauliflower Rice Collard Wraps from http://www.theroastedroot.net/roasted-sweet-potato-cauliflower-rice-collard-wraps/ Substitute collard greens with turnips or swiss chard*
- Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, Parsnips and Brussels Sprouts from http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/roasted-potatoes-carrots-parsnips-and-brussels-sprouts-recipe2-1940760
- Broccoli Salad with Carrots, Grapes, & Creamy Avocado Dressing from http://getinspiredeveryday.com/food/healthy-broccoli-salad-with-creamy-avocado-dressing/
- Radish Pineapple Mint Quinoa Salad from http://yes-moreplease.com/2016/05/radish-pineapple-mint-quinoa-salad/
- Baked Garlic & Herb Shoestring Rutabagas from http://simpleseasonal.com/recipes/baked-garlic-herb-shoestring-rutabagas
References
The Healthy Benefits to You of Eating Fruits and Vegetables In Season. (2011, September 20). Retrieved August 09, 2017, from https://bodyecology.com/articles/benefits_in_season.php
What’s In Season? Fall. (n.d.). Retrieved August 09, 2017, from http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/whats-in-season-fall
Written by Nicole Lindel ~ Nutrition Education Master’s Student at Columbia University