Check Out this Berry Good News
The start of summer often gets people thinking about lightening up their diets. It makes sense, doesn’t it? The heavy winter clothes go away, people are out and more active, farmers’ markets are back, and fruits and veggies are everywhere. Summer seems to scream “healthy food.”
The other thing we’re all thinking about as summer starts is the fun – the gatherings, pool parties, and barbecues. But, let’s be honest, those don’t always scream healthy when it comes to the typical fare. Don’t get me wrong… I like a good s’more every now and then, I really do (I’ll share tips on how to elevate them some other day). But why do the ideas of “fun summer party” and “delicious, healthy food” have to be mutually exclusive?
I’m here to tell you they don't.
I’ve got two summer recipes to share that you can serve your family or take to your next potluck, no apologies. They taste amazing, take full advantage of the foods of the season, and are overflowing with antioxidants and fiber.
First up… Summer Avocado Berry Salad with Kombucha Vinaigrette
This colorful salad can be a great side dish, or doctored up as a main course. Either way, it’s full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from the avocado and olive oil, which have been shown to decrease the LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and increase the HDL (“good”) cholesterol. It also has a good amount of fiber from the greens, berries, and avocado, which can lower cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk.
Not only that, the fiber helps keep your digestion cooking along, while the kombucha in the dressing gives your gut health a boost with a dose of beneficial bacteria.
But wait… as they say in every infomercial ever made… there’s more! This salad is packed with vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can strengthen your immune system. Fun fact – studies also show it has a positive effect on thinking and memory. That's worth remembering!
Next up… Strawberry-Basil Agua Fresca
I’m sure I sound like a broken record when it comes to hydration. But, in my defense, there’s really no way to overstate how important it is – especially in the summer. When heat and humidity go up, so does your risk of dehydration. Unfortunately, some of the drinks people reach for at summer parties – soft drinks and alcohol – have the opposite effect. You may think they’re quenching your thirst, but they’re actually contributing to dehydration. Steer clear, but don’t despair. This easy agua fresca recipe is the perfect way to have something festive and refreshing without compromising on health and hydration.
Give these recipes a try and, if you do, I’d love to hear what you think.
Here’s wishing you a great start to your summer as we take time out this weekend to honor those who served our country.
