As the weather starts to warm up and the days grow longer, it's time for senior citizens living on the Treasure Coast to start enjoying the seasonal bounty of fresh and local spring vegetables. Eating more fresh produce isn't just good for your overall health and nutrition, but it can also reduce your risk of developing certain chronic conditions.
The Benefits of Eating Seasonal Vegetables
Fresh, seasonal vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for healthy aging. Eating more fruits and veggies can help lower your risk of developing certain chronic conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and even some types of cancer. Eating seasonally also helps reduce your carbon footprint, as local produce must travel fewer miles to reach your table. Additionally, eating seasonal produce helps support local farmers and the local economy.
Why Shop Local?
Shopping for local and seasonal produce is an easy way to support your local economy and community. Local farmers' markets are the best place to find the freshest, most nutrient-dense produce at lower prices. They also offer the opportunity to ask the farmer questions about their growing practices and to interact with members of the community. Shopping local has environmental benefits as well, as it requires fewer resources for the produce to reach you.
How to Choose and Store Fresh Vegetables
When shopping for fresh veggies, it's important to look for the freshest items available. Look for produce that is firm and unblemished. Make sure to inspect the vegetables closely and give them a gentle squeeze. Storing your fresh produce correctly is important for maintaining quality and taste. Also, make sure to keep vegetables that need to be kept cool in a bag in your fridge. A quick vinegar soak can help extend the life of your produce. Do your research into what items are best left on the counter versus which ones need to be kept in the fridge to extend their lives.
Popular Spring Vegetables
There are a lot of great spring vegetables that are available.
- Asparagus: Asparagus is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and fiber. It should be firm and green with tightly closed tips.
- Artichokes: Artichokes are a great source of fiber and antioxidants. Choose artichokes that are heavy for their size and that have tight, compact leaves.
- Peas: Peas are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are usually available from early spring until late summer. Look for peas with bright colors and smooth pods that are not too large.
- Spinach: Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, and it is an excellent source of fiber. Look for spinach with crisp, deep green leaves that are not wilted or yellow.
- Radishes: Radishes are a great source of vitamin C and fiber. Choose radishes that are firm, smooth, and unblemished.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Look for broccoli with tight green heads and no yellowing.
How to Enjoy Seasonal Vegetables
Now that you know the basics of choosing and storing your fresh veggies, you're ready to start enjoying them! There are also a variety of ways to prepare seasonal vegetables. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Roasted - Roasting is a simple way to bring out the sweetness of fresh veggies. Simply trim, season, and toss with oil, then roast in a hot oven for 20-30 minutes.
- Grilled - Grilling is a great way to bring out the smoky flavor of veggies. Simply trim, season, and brush with oil, then grill over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes.
- Sauteed - Sauteing is a quick and easy way to cook up fresh veggies. Simply heat oil in a skillet, add diced veggies, season, and cook until tender.
- Stir-Fried - Stir-frying is a great way to cook up a variety of seasonal veggies quickly. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet, add your veggies, season, and cook until crisp-tender.
Get Help Preparing Meals With Fresh Vegetables This Year
Fresh, local spring vegetables are a great way to enjoy the bounty of the season. Eating seasonally has health, economic, and environmental benefits, and shopping at local farmers' markets is a great way to support the local community. By following the tips provided, seniors living on the Treasure Coast - Salerno, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, and Sebastian - can easily enjoy the best seasonal produce this season. If you need help getting out to the local farmer's market to purchase those great vegetables or help to prepare regular meals, contact Senior Helpers Treasure Coast today! Our in-home care services can help you with meal planning, cooking, and more.