The winters are very long here in Vermont. Eating seasonally is much easier in the summer. The Farmer’s Markets begin filling up with an incredible array of flavors and freshness.
We wait longer than most people in the country, but it’s worth it.
Local gardens in summer begin producing peas, spinach, lettuces, scallions, early tomatoes, early summer squashes, fresh herbs and the first fruit: strawberries!
I don’t put any of these vegetables in the pantry. The first harvests are just eaten. Each bite savored and celebrated. It’s important to remember that everything you eat has an effect on your health. Some foods are stimulating, some are nutritious for your whole system, and some are calming. If you are already stimulated enough because of the summer heat and busy-ness, eat more calming foods.
Eat Your Medicine…My summer garden harvest so far, and what they do for self-care.
Lettuce, the greener the lettuce, the better it is for you: Calming. Contains potassium, vitamins A, B6, C, D, calcium, cobalamin, iron and magnesium
Green Peas, Fresh: A good source of fiber, protein, vitamins A, C, K, thiamine, folate, manganese, iron and phosphorus. Rich in antioxidants, they help regulate blood sugar,
Scallions aka spring or bunching onions: Stimulating. One of the best sources of Vitamin K you can grow. Also have vitamins A, C and E, folate, niacin, pantothenic acid Pyridoxine, riboflavin, thiamin, potassium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium manganese, phosphorus, selenium, carotene B, and zinc.
Spinach: Raw spinach is stimulating. Cooked spinach is not. Use with foods rich in vitamin C to improve absorption of the nutritious vitamins and minerals found in this amazing plant. Contains protein, calcium, iron. magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, folate, vitamin K, fiber, phosphorus, beta-carotene and thiamin. Antioxidant, increases insulin sensitivity, decreases neuropathy, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens bones.
Strawberries: Contains vitamin B6, C, E and K, manganese, folate, potassium, iron, copper, magnesium and phosphorus. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, improves vascular health, reduces bad cholesterol and reduces blood pressure
Summer Squash: Calming. Contains vitamin A, B6, C, E, K, manganese, riboflavin, folate, thiamine, niacin, copper, pantothenic acid, choline, calcium, iron, sink, selenium, beta-carotene, and potassium. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune system booster, antimicrobial, lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, digestive aid, constipation relief, and helps with diarrhea
Tomatoes, Fresh: Calming. Contains vitamin B9 (folate), C and K, potassium, fiber, lycopene, beta-carotene. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, lowers elevated blood pressure, improves skin health and the lycopene protects against sunburn
