I sure do!!  There is nothing like it for me!  From the emails that I received from the last Whimsy, many have been enjoying it too.

This is the time to enjoy the season’s freshest and most flavorful produce.  This season brings a bonus to the meaning of delightful deliciousness and that is its powerful punch of nutrients in every bite that supports your overall health.  What could be better than God’s gift of delicious health in every bite?

Below are ten top summer produce, each with a simple tasty recipe.

1.  Bell Peppers

Colorful and crunchy, bell peppers add a sweet flavor to any dish.  They taste great fresh, broiled, grilled, roasted, or sauteed.

They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and fiber.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Fill bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, then bake until tender for a hearty and satisfying plant-based meal.

2.  Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are at their peak in the summer.  Enjoy them fresh, in desserts, or blended into smoothies.  They do make for a perfect snack!

Berries are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Berry Breakfast Parfait

Layer fresh berries with coconut yogurt and granola for a beautiful, colorful, refreshing and nutrient-packed start to your day.

3.  Corn

Sweet corn is synonymous with summer.  There are so many varieties to choose from.  Each has its distinct flavor.  One that you can hardly keep your eyes from closing as you take in that first full of flavor bite.

Whether grilled, boiled, or added to salads, it’s a versatile and delicious vegetable.  Corn is a good source of fiber and essential vitamins like B6 and folate.

Grilled Corn Salad

Toss grilled corn kernels with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro for a bright and flavorful summer salad. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil for the perfect finishing touch.

4.  Cucumbers

Cool and refreshing, cucumbers are a must-have in summer salads.  They taste great on their own, on a fresh slice of bread or added to a sandwich or sub.  Even add a few slices to your glass of water.

They’re hydrating and packed with nutrients like vitamin K and antioxidants.

Cucumber and Dill Salad

Thinly slice cucumbers and toss with fresh dill, red onion, and a simple vinaigrette for a crisp, refreshing side dish.

5.  Green Beans

Fresh green beans are tender and flavorful.  Oh my goodness, they taste ever so good freshly picked!  They are delicious and easy to prepare in many ways.

Green beans are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and manganese.

Garlic Sautéed Green Beans

Sauté green beans in olive oil with garlic and a sprinkle of sea salt.  This is a quick and tasty side dish.

6.  Herbs

Don’t forget about fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro.  These add a burst of flavor to your summer dishes.

Herbs are also packed with health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Basil Pesto Pasta

Blend fresh basil with garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil to create a vibrant pesto sauce. Toss with your favorite pasta for a simple yet flavorful dish.

7.  Nectarines and Peaches

These juicy fruits are perfect for snacking, baking, or adding to salads. 

Nectarines and peaches are rich in vitamins A and C.  They are great for your skin and immune system.

Grilled Peach Salad

Grill peach halves until caramelized, then slice and toss with arugula, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a sweet and savory salad.

8.  Tomatoes

Bursting with flavor, tomatoes are a summer staple. They are perfect for salads, salsas, sauces, or simply sliced with a sprinkle of salt.

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.  Lycopene is very supportive of your heart health.  Studies have also shown lycopene may even slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells.

Tomato and Basil Bruschetta

Top toasted baguette slices with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delightful appetizer or snack.

9.  Zucchini and Summer Squash

These versatile vegetables are great grilled, sautéed, or spiralized into noodles. They’re low in calories but high in nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Zucchini Noodles with Marinara

Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles, then toss with a fresh marinara sauce for a light and healthy pasta alternative.

10.  Watermelon

Nothing says summer like watermelon!  I love watermelon!  It tastes great fresh or blended as an iced-cold summer drink.  Heaven…

Watermelon is very hydrating.  It is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene.

Watermelon and Mint Salad

Combine cubed watermelon with fresh mint and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing and hydrating summer treat.

Your turn!!

Which summer produce do you look forward to the most?

What is your favorite way to enjoy berries during the summer?

Which of the suggested recipes are you excited to try out first?

Enjoy the taste of summer while feeding your body with these delicious and nutritious recipes. Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences as you enjoy your seasonal tasty treasures.  I love hearing from you!

Share here!

Love and blessings,

Coach Angela Schmidt