With the bloom of the flowers comes the bloom of the produce this season. At The Northwest school, fresh produce is very important. We have a conscientious food program with food and vegetables grown in the school’s garden. Strawberries, rhubarb, asparagus, and lemons are delicious during this season. You can use these ingredients to make tasty dishes such as strawberry rhubarb crumble, asparagus risotto, and lemon blueberry bread. Enjoy the abundance of this season by taking advantage of the fresh produce and tasty ingredients to create delicious meals for yourself and your family. Get ready for the change in season with the NWS community by learning what’s in this season’s produce and how you can create your own indoor garden.
When shopping at a grocery store, it can be tempting to add a few raspberries or brussels sprouts to your cart. But, It is important to keep in mind that although these fruits and vegetables may appear fresh, they are produced out of season and are filled with preservatives. A farmer’s market, on the other hand, typically stocks freshly-picked and locally grown produce, which equates to produce that’s bursting with flavor. Visit my article here to learn more about why it is beneficial to eat with the seasons.
So, what fruits and vegetables are in season in spring?
Root Vegetables: Carrots, Garlics, Onions
Green Vegetables: Asparagus, Broccoli, Cabbage, Celery, Collard Greens,
Fruits: Apples, Apricots, Avocado, Bananas, Kiwifruit, Pineapples, Strawberries, Lemons
For a more detailed list of seasonal produce check out the U.S. Department of Agricultural Seasonal Produce.
Choose from a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables such as apples, apricots, and asparagus. Incorporate them into your favorite dishes or get creative and try something new. You can make a delicious salad with fresh strawberries, avocados and spinach or you can try a refreshing smoothie with bananas, pineapples and milk. Listed below are recipes you could try with the fruits and vegetables that are in season, and a bit of information about the highlighted ingredient.
Honey Roasted Carrots with Balsamic Glaze
Enjoy carrots raw, cooked, or even blend them into a smoothie. Carrots are claimed to be the perfect health food according to healthline. It is true, carrots can help you see in the dark and improve your vision. Carrots contain beta carotene which is used to make a form of Vitamin A in the body. Carrots are also packed with many other essential vitamins and minerals, making them even more beneficial to our health. Try making these honey roasted carrots with balsamic glaze to add a crunch into your meal.
Lemon Pound Cake
Lemons are full of benefits; they purify your blood, flush out toxins in your system and so much more. They contain about 50 milligrams each of vitamin C which is over half the amount needed in your diet according to WebMD. Drinking lemon water first thing in the morning flushes out toxins in your body. Lemons also boost your immune system, helping you stay healthy and strong. Here is the recipe to this delicious Lemon Pound Cake that you can use to your advantage for lemon benefits and a tasty treat.
Creamy Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles
Strawberries are a delicious way to get your daily dose of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Combining them with lemon for a tasty Creamy Strawberry Lemon popsicle is a refreshing and easy way to get a healthy dose of vitamins and other essential nutrients. These are the perfect dessert for the upcoming hot summer days.
Garlic Parmesan Kale Pasta
This garlic parmesan kale pasta is a simple but tasty way to take advantage of the health benefits of Kale, while indulging in a yummy dish. Garlic is also in season. Parmesan adds delicious flavor to the dish while the kale provides a nutritious boost. It’s a quick and easy dish to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Avocado Banana Smoothie
A simple way to include two fruits and vegetables that are in season is an avocado banana smoothie. Both Avocados and bananas are nutrient-rich fruits. Combining them in a smoothie provides a delicious and easy way to get a healthy dose of vitamins and other essential nutrients. When blended together, they create a creamy and delicious smoothie that is both nutritious and filling.
How to Create Your Own Indoor Garden
Herbs are the easiest to start indoor gardening with. Herbs can be used in many ways. From cooking to medicine, herbs can be used in many different ways to enhance a dish, provide health benefits, or even add a decorative touch to your home. Herbs are versatile in where and how they can grow. They can be grown in pots, on windowsills, in full sun or shade. Some herbs can be contained and others can spread on their territory. Herbs are easy to maintain and some require minimal care and attention, depending on the type, making them an ideal choice for those new to gardening.
Some herbs that are both easy to grow and hard to kill are mint, clover, and parsley.
The first step in creating an indoor garden is to determine where the herbs will live and to choose the type of planters, pots or containers. Keep in mind that there are certain plants that will thrive in light and some that won’t. Choosing the right place in your home is key, as it will determine the success of your indoor garden. Once you have chosen the right location, you will need to select soil that will help ensure your herbs are well-nourished and can flourish. Once you’ve decided on your herbs, their location in your home, and container, you’re ready to start gardening. Water your herbs regularly and make sure they get enough sunlight. Monitor their growth and adjust the light, soil and water levels accordingly. With time and care, your plants will thrive and you will have a beautiful indoor garden.
