Cooking with seasonal fruits and vegetables is a fun and rewarding experience!

When you use ingredients that are in season, you're not only helping local farmers, but you also get the freshest flavors and most nutrients. Here are some easy recipes that highlight fresh, whole foods. I really enjoy making them, especially during harvest time.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad

You Will Need:

• Seasonal fruits (like strawberries, blueberries, peaches, kiwi, or watermelon)
• A squeeze of lime or lemon juice
• A handful of fresh mint leaves (optional)

Steps:

1. Cut your chosen fruits into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix them together in a large bowl.
3. Squeeze lime or lemon juice on top to add some zing.
4. If you want, toss in some chopped mint for a refreshing touch.

This fruit salad is super flexible! You can enjoy it as a snack, a side dish, or even a light dessert.

2. Roasted Vegetable Medley

You Will Need:

• Seasonal vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and asparagus)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut your vegetables into similar-sized pieces and spread them out on a baking tray.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt, pepper, and fresh herbs on top.
4. Roast them for about 20-30 minutes until they are tender and a bit caramelized.

This dish goes perfectly with grilled meat or can be tossed in a salad. Roasting really brings out the sweet taste of the veggies!

3. Quinoa Salad with Seasonal Veggies

You Will Need:

• 1 cup of quinoa
• 2 cups of water
• Seasonal vegetables (like corn, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers)
• Olive oil
• White vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil)

Steps:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Put it in a pot with the water and bring it to a boil. Then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
2. While that cooks, chop your seasonal veggies into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with the chopped veggies.
4. Dress it with olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add fresh herbs for extra flavor!

This quinoa salad is hearty and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it great for meal prep!

4. Smoothie Bowl

You Will Need:

• Seasonal fruits (like bananas, berries, or mango)
• A handful of spinach or kale
• 1 cup of almond milk or yogurt
• Toppings: granola, nuts, seeds, and extra fruit

Steps:

1. In a blender, mix the fruit, greens, and almond milk or yogurt until smooth.
2. Pour it into a bowl and add your favorite toppings.

Smoothie bowls are perfect for breakfast or a snack! They look amazing and are super healthy.

5. Vegetable Stir-Fry

You Will Need:

• Seasonal vegetables (like broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers)
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Garlic and ginger
• Olive oil or sesame oil

Steps:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger and cook until you smell them.
3. Toss in your chopped veggies and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce or tamari for flavor and cook for one more minute.

Serve it with brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

---

These recipes are not only easy to make, but they also let the natural flavors of fruits and veggies shine! Eating whole foods keeps your meals healthy and fills your body with great nutrients. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!