What's one of the best ways to enjoy fresher, more nutrient-dense food while helping your body stay fueled and balanced? A seasonal diet! That means choosing foods that naturally grow in your area during different times of the year. Interested in learning more? You've come to the right place. Here, we'll cover seasonal diets and which foods you should focus on as the weather changes.
Why Seasonal Diets?
Adhering to a seasonal diet comes with many benefits, including:
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Better taste: In-season, freshly harvested produce is at its flavor peak. You can look forward to more rich, vibrant tastes compared to out-of-season options that have been artificially ripened or stored for long periods of time.
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Higher nutritional value: Food that doesn't require extensive transportation or storage retains more of its natural nutrients.
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An immunity boost: Eating seasonally fuels your body with the nutrients it needs to face season-specific conditions. For example, citrus fruits in winter offer much-needed vitamin C, while summer berries are filled with powerful antioxidants that can help protect against sun damage.
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Supporting local agriculture: The benefits of a seasonal diet extend beyond your household; it can also help reduce the environmental impact of long-distance food transportation and help support small local businesses and farmers.
The Foods Best Suited for Each Season
Spring
Spring is all about renewal, making it a great time to focus on detoxing and refreshing. After wrapping up a winter of heavier meals, turn your attention to:
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Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale
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Artichokes and asparagus for natural detox support
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Fresh herbs to help your digestion
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Citrus fruits, including lemons and oranges, for a boost of vitamin C
What meals do we love around this time of year? Fresh spring salads with roasted asparagus topped with grilled salmon and drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette. *Chef's kiss*
Summer
As the temperature rises, your body begins to crave cool foods and more hydration. Eating water-rich fruits and veggies can help keep you energized and feeling your best. For that reason, your diet during the summer season should focus on these foods:
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Watermelon, berries, and cucumbers
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Zucchini and squash-based meals that are easier to digest
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Lean proteins for energy, such as grilled chicken and seafood
One of our go-to summer meals is a grilled chicken bowl with zucchini noodles and fresh herbs. Absolutely delicious and just the thing to take the heat off! Subscribe to meal deliveries for fresh, fully cooked meals that require zero thought or prep.
Fall
As the weather cools, it's time to transition to foods that prepare your body for the colder months ahead. Fall is all about options rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help get your immunity in shape before winter hits. Your fall seasonal diet plan should include:
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Root vegetables, such as carrots, beets and sweet potatoes
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Nuts and seeds for healthy fats that keep energy levels up
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Cranberries, pears, and apples for much-needed antioxidants
Hearty harvest quinoa bowls, stews, and soups are all great options for your fall dishes. If you're looking for just a few meals to rotate into your own weekly menu, order Farm Fresh Meals a la carte!
Winter
A winter-season diet plan is all about nutrient-dense, warming foods that can help keep your immune system strong. Think slow-cooked, comforting meals with plenty of healthy fats and proteins, like:
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Grass-fed beef, organic chicken, and wild-caught salmon
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Whole grains, such as brown rice
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Dark leafy greens, including collard greens and kale
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Fermented foods and bone broth
During this time of year, we love a good beef stroganoff or glazed chicken thigh served on a bed of brown rice.
Fuel Your Body No Matter the Season With Farm Fresh Meals
Enjoying seasonal, fresh meals doesn't have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. Turn to Farm Fresh Meals! With fully cooked cuisine that you can heat up and enjoy, we make seasonal diets easy. Create an account to get started!