Most of us are familiar with the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables. They contain the vitamins and minerals our bodies need to be healthy. Colorful fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants and phytonutrients that can prevent and fight diseases. They are full of fiber which helps our digestion and heart health.
To optimize our nutrition, we should look for locally-grown, seasonal fruits and vegetables. These foods are fresher, are not transported long distances, and are usually picked at their peak of ripeness. Think of spring’s fresh asparagus from a local farmstand… freshly picked, crunchy, colorful, full of flavor and nutrients!
According to seasonalfoodguide.org, here are three reasons why eating local food is important:
Purchasing locally grown foods helps support local farms and maintains farmland and open space in your community.
Local food supports the local economy. The money you spend on products from local farmers and growers stays in the community and is reinvested with other local businesses. In addition, food grown locally, processed locally and distributed locally (for example, to local restaurants) generates jobs and subsequently helps stimulate local economies.
Local growers can tell you how the food was grown. When you buy directly from farmers, you have the opportunity to ask what practices they use to raise and harvest the crops. When you know where your food comes from and who grew it, you know a lot more about your food.
Seasonal Food Guide (seasonalfoodguide.org) is a wonderful resource for learning about what fruits and vegetables are in season in your community at any time of the year.
Here are a few produce items that are currently in season in Pennsylvania - from late April to early May:
Arugula - a tender, peppery green that should be eaten within a few days of purchase.
Asparagus - look for slender stems for maximum tenderness. Comes in green, purple, white, and wild varieties. Eat raw in salads or lightly steamed.
Fiddleheads - should be tightly curled, about 1 - 2 inches in diameter. Delicious sauteed lightly with garlic, lemon, sea salt, and olive oil.
Pea shoots - a very young pea plant, look for brightly colored, un-wilted. Add to stir fry’s or salads for an interesting texture.
Ramps - described as a peppery and pungent cross between onion and garlic, ramps are actually a wild leek. They can be a flavorful spring vegetable to include in your meals - here are some delicious ideas from The Today Show.
Local Harvest is a great resource to help you find a local farmstand and/or CSA in your area.
Be inspired…