It is summer and that means fresh vegetables! And fresh fruits and vegetables important for a healthy, clean eating lifestyle.

One thing I love during the summer is the local farm stands and market days. They open in the spring with offerings of local crops such as asparagus and strawberries.  Then move onto blueberries, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, peaches, watermelon, corn and more!.  After what seemed like a long, winter season the chance to have locally grown food available to add to meals is irresistible. Offerings at local farm stands are usually as fresh as you can get it without actually harvesting it yourself. And some farms even offer that option as well! So what are some benefits of buying from local farm stands?

• Locally grown food is full of flavor because they are picked at their peak of ripeness versus being harvested early in order to be shipped miles and miles to your local retail store.  
• Local food has more nutrients because there is a shorter time between when they were harvested and when they reach your table. Food imported from far-away states and countries is often older, and sits in distribution centers  for days before it gets to your store.
• Local foods promote a safer food supply because the more steps there are between you and your food’s source the more chances there are for contamination. Food grown in distant locations has the potential for food safety issues at harvesting, washing, shipping and distribution.
• Local growers can tell you how the food was grown. When you know where your food comes from and who grew it, you know a lot more about that food.
• Purchasing from local farmers supports your community!

Preparing fresh vegetables can be simple – just cleaning and eating them raw, or steaming them. Or my favorite – grilling! After all who wants to salve over a hot stove during the summer? So support your local farmers and enjoy fresh flavorful vegetables!

FREE ONLINE GRILLING PARTY!

If you are looking for grilling recipes or just enjoy grilling we are hosting a FREE online 7 Day Clean Eating Grilling Party beginning July 10th.  E-mail us at coastalgirlfoodnfitness@gmail.com if you are interested in joining us! OR complete the form below!