Eating seasonally in winter

The winter season can provide you with a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Sometimes, they are underrated but delicious and support our overall well-being. Here are some winter produce options and tips on how to eat in winter:

1. Root Vegetables: carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, turnips, parsnips, and zucchini

   • these can be used to make nutrient-dense stews and soups

2. Cruciferous Vegetables: brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage

   • these are great fresh, in juices, or in salads and slaws to add in more veggies

3. Berries: cranberries and pomegranates

   • these can be great additions to winter salads, oatmeal, and yogurt bowls

4. Dark Leafy Greens: kale, spinach, swiss chard

   • add these to soups, stews, or sauté for a nutritious side dish. my favorite recipe to make with kale is kale chips with nutritional yeast

5. Squash: butternut squash, acorn squash, spaghetti squash

   • roast, bake, or puree for soups and casseroles

Tips for Eating in Winter:

1. Warm and Comforting Meals: Opt for meals like soups, stews, and casseroles to stay cozy in colder weather

2. In-Season Produce: Choose fruits and vegetables that are in season to ensure freshness, flavor, and a higher level of nutrients

3. Hydration: Stay hydrated with warm beverages like herbal teas, broths, and hot water with lemon

4. Seasonal Spices: Use warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to add flavor to your dishes

5. Frozen Produce: While fresh is ideal, frozen fruits and vegetables can be convenient and nutritious alternatives

6. Meal Planning: Plan your meals ahead of time to incorporate a diverse range of seasonal produce

7. Environmental Benefits: Increasing seasonal produce can positively impact our environment. Normally, seasonal produce is local to the city/state, which requires less transportation to get the food from the farm to the consumer

Winter produce recipes -