The Importance of Eating Healthy in Spring and Shopping for Local Produce
Sustainable Seasonal Spring Sustenance
As the winter frost gives way to the warmth of spring, the season beckons a fresh start and a renewed focus on health and well-being. One of the best ways to embrace the vibrant energy of spring is by incorporating a variety of fresh, local produce into your diet. In this article, we'll explore the significance of eating healthy during the spring season and provide delicious recipes that showcase the bounty of seasonal ingredients.
Kiwi-Strawberry Spinach Salad:
A Symphony of Colors and Flavors
Spring brings forth an abundance of fruits and vegetables, and what better way to celebrate this than with a Kiwi-Strawberry Spinach Salad? This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries and kiwifruit with the crispness of torn spinach leaves. Tossed in a delightful dressing made from canola oil, raspberry vinegar, and a blend of seeds, this salad is a symphony of colors and flavors.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup canola oil
1/4 cup raspberry vinegar
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
12 cups torn fresh spinach (about 9 ounces)
2 pints fresh strawberries, halved
4 kiwifruit, peeled and sliced
Directions:
In a blender, combine canola oil, raspberry vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, and blend until smooth.
Transfer the dressing to a bowl and stir in green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and poppy seeds.
In a large bowl, combine torn fresh spinach, halved strawberries, and sliced kiwifruit.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Asparagus Ham Strata:
A Hearty Spring Brunch Delight
For a hearty and satisfying spring brunch, the Asparagus Ham Strata is a perfect choice. This savory dish is a delightful blend of cubed bread, Monterey Jack cheese, deli ham, and fresh asparagus. Prepared the night before and baked to perfection, this strata is not only delicious but also a convenient option for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
5 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup half-and-half cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
4 cups cubed Italian or French bread (about 6 ounces)
1-1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1 cup cubed deli ham (1/2 inch)
1 cup cut fresh asparagus (1-inch pieces)
Directions:
Whisk together eggs, whole milk, half-and-half cream, salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg in a large bowl.
Stir in cubed bread, 1 cup cheese, cubed ham, and asparagus.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and refrigerate overnight.
Bake until puffed, golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Spinach-Parm Casserole:
A Quick and Healthy Side Dish
Incorporating leafy greens into your diet is essential for a nutritious spring meal. The Spinach-Parm Casserole takes fresh baby spinach to new heights with a flavorful combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. This quick and healthy side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any spring dinner.
Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh baby spinach
5 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Cook fresh baby spinach in boiling water until wilted, then drain well.
In a skillet, heat butter and oil, add garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt, and cook until garlic is tender.
Spread the spinach in a baking dish, drizzle with the butter mixture, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake until the cheese is lightly browned.
Marinated Cheese-Topped Salad:
A Burst of Freshness
Elevate your salad game with the Marinated Cheese-Topped Salad, featuring a zesty dressing and cubes of marinated cream cheese. This salad combines romaine, arugula or baby spinach, grape tomatoes, shallots, and green olives for a burst of freshness and flavor.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons minced fresh Italian parsley
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 large garlic clove, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, chilled
4 cups torn romaine
2 cups fresh arugula or baby spinach
1-1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
2 shallots, thinly sliced
1/2 cup medium pitted green olives
Directions:
Combine olive oil, Italian parsley, lemon juice, oregano, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
Toss cream cheese cubes with half of the dressing and refrigerate.
In a large bowl, combine romaine, arugula or spinach, tomatoes, shallots, and olives.
Drizzle with the remaining dressing and top with marinated cheese cubes.
Garden Veggie Egg Bake:
A Nutrient-Packed Delight
Kickstart your day with a nutrient-packed Garden Veggie Egg Bake. This versatile dish combines eggs, egg substitute, cottage cheese, and an array of fresh vegetables, including zucchini, broccoli, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Baked to perfection, it's a wholesome and delicious option for a spring breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
5 large eggs
2 cups egg substitute
1/2 cup 2% cottage cheese
1/3 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1 medium zucchini, chopped
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
Directions:
Whisk together eggs, egg substitute, cheeses, pepper, and hot pepper sauce in a large bowl.
Stir in chopped zucchini, broccoli, spinach, carrots, and quartered cherry tomatoes.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake until set and golden.
Embracing the spring season by incorporating fresh, local produce into your meals not only adds vibrant colors and flavors but also provides a myriad of health benefits. From salads to casseroles and egg bakes, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of spring ingredients. So, head to your local farmers' market, support your community, and savor the goodness of spring on your plate.