Enjoy Summer Eating

This is one of my favorite times of year. Warm weather, bright sunshine, and fresh produce ... cool, energizing fruits and veggies, from tomatoes to zucchini to nectarines and berries.

This is not the time to be eating steaks and potatoes. While the produce is fresh, eat it! There are many studies that show eating foods that are in season and grown locally is a great way to stay healthy.

Plus, it's easy. Here are some great summertime eats ideas:

• Throw together a salad. Dark leafy greens, tomatoes, celery, berries, pumpkin seeds or walnuts, maybe some feta cheese if you eat dairy, add a homemade vinaigrette and you have a light healthy meal. Get creative with your salads and combining different textures and flavors. Mix fruit and veggies. Not only will it look beautiful, it'll wake up your palate and energize your body.
• Blend fresh or frozen berries with fresh or frozen kale, add coconut milk, soy milk, almond milk or just water. Blend and add a touch...just a touch of honey or agave nectar if you'd like. A healthy, refreshing snack or a great breakfast.
• Grill! 'Tis the season to cook outdoors. Try something different! Grill long slices of zucchini, marinated tofu, shrimp or fish. Fresh peppers on the grill are amazing too.
• Use up those veggies from the farm market. Leftover zucchini? Squash? Carrots? Grind them up in your food processor and add them to homemade spaghetti sauce or even baked goods (reduce other liquids in recipes). You can even stir in ground up veggies in brown rice for extra nutrition and flavor.

Summertime eating is easy, fun and fresh. Take advantage of this time of year to add more veggies and fruits into your diet.

And remember, I'm always here if you'd like more specific advice on how to create a healthy, happy lifestyle and way of eating for you and your family.