This is the time of year that I look forward to all year long because of the fresh and tasty summer recipes. Don’t get me wrong. I enjoy many foods that are available ALL year-round, but this time of year, the selection at the grocery store is incredible for making healthy summer recipes. This summer, I’m trying to stick to fruits, vegetables, and meats because I feel better when I fuel my body with the most basic grown foods. That doesn’t mean taste and creativity become compromised. Not at all. I do consume dairy, as I like cream in my coffee, and I do enjoy cheese. The reality is, there aren’t a lot of foods I don’t like, just some foods that don’t like me. Thus, I’ve had to eliminate those foods that aren’t helpful in my quest to get fit and healthier. Because when it comes down to it, food is fuel.
Tasty Summertime
Lately, I’ve been cooking more, and as I do, I think of foods that complement one another. It’s also helpful for me to check out the healthy summer recipes that come across pages on Facebook or on websites that I like to visit. Finding ideas online, like the food pages that I’ve “liked,” brings me ideas that are extremely helpful when picking out the dishes that I’ve made. I may occasionally make modifications to the recipes, but I appreciate their inspiration, and the guidelines are fantastic. Food Network is also a wonderful source for those of us who need a little guidance.
Naturally Healthy
Because I’m working to include healthier natural foods in my diet, I’ve been slowly eliminating processed foods. I find I don’t feel as good when they are included in my daily eating routine. It’s the KISS principle: keep it simple — the more basic the diet, the better. On occasion, I have some crackers or chips, but over time I have drastically reduced eating them. It’s interesting how our bodies crave certain foods, especially processed foods, so removing them from your diet can be difficult. However, it’s possible, and when the cravings stop, and you feel better each day, you’ll be glad you took that step.
When I was a child, my mother would make Brussel sprouts. Needless to say, I wasn’t a fan. As an adult, that’s changed. They are actually delicious with butter and lemon, slowly cooked and marinated. I enjoy them as well as roasted veggies of all kinds. I found this recipe not long ago, and it’s so good that I prepare it and really enjoy it. I must share it with you, and I hope you like it as much as I do.
Eat Less More Often
Larger meals tend to weigh me down, so I am eating smaller portions but more frequently. Since this has been the case, I find I am losing weight. I try to limit my meals to foods that truly benefit my needs, and I’m listening to my body. I’ve eliminated foods I have found respond in my body negatively and try to avoid them. Since I was diagnosed as hypothyroid and anemic several years ago, I make sure I consume iron, multi-vitamins, and Omega 3/fish oils. I also take vitamins A and D. I’ve also been taking a probiotic for digestion and health.
Substitute Your Way to Good Health
Many of us have to adjust our diets for our lifestyles, genetic dispositions, and medicines. That’s okay because there are so many creative ideas and recipes that are beneficial when it comes to health and our particular circumstances. I was trying to cut down on bread and dough recently because I found that I felt bloated after eating certain kinds of bread. In my search, I found a tasty substitute. I especially like using raw cauliflower to create a crust for pizza or homemade calzones.
During the day or for a quick snack, yogurt with peaches is refreshing, and beets with sour cream are both quick and easy and light and beneficial. Beets contain iron and vitamins A, C, and fiber to add a kick to your daily nutritional intake.
If you are looking for an idea for taco night, try using butter leaf lettuce as the shell instead of tortillas. You can fill it with meat or chicken and add cheese or sour cream. It’s a creative way to have tacos. They would also be great for a party or served as an appetizer and can be rolled up to become an egg roll instantly. Each of these healthy options is perfect for your summer parties.
Conclusion
The possibilities are endless for healthy summer recipes. There are so many choices with spring and summer foods, and healthy options seem to be everywhere. I especially enjoy grilled watermelon and pineapple when we’re having a BBQ; it adds freshness and flavor to the menu. There is just something about grilling foods that brings out their flavor, and contrary to what you might expect, it’s often much better than the original.
So, here’s to summer and sharing healthy summer recipes and tasty dishes filled with great flavors!
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