Farmers' Market Picks

September 14, 2016

It’s finally farmers’ market season! Every table is full of produce that looks perfectly delectable. But before grabbing one of everything, it’s important to know that even at farmer’s markets, certain fruits and veggies are fresher this time of year than others. We took the guesswork out of it and rounded up some of the most nutritious spring and summer picks.

Best Fruits

Strawberries and oranges:
Packed with skin-strengthening vitamin C, which help expedite wound healing (so you won’t be battling blisters forever!)

Peaches:
Filled with bone-fortifying phosphorous

Watermelon:
Made up of about 90 percent water, so each bite provides your body with an extra bit of H2O

Bored with your basic fruit salad? Try blending strawberries and peaches into a smoothie (with a splash of fresh-squeezed farmers’ market OJ). It’s refreshing and super-portable, so you can drink it while heading to a morning class.

Feeling adventurous at a summer BBQ? Throw a few slices of watermelon onto the grill—the smoky result is perfect for a salad with some goat cheese and balsamic vinegar.

Best Vegetables

Spinach and zucchini:
Loaded with manganese, which helps regulate your blood sugar, so hunger and dizziness don’t derail your dancing

Asparagus:
Filled with fiber to help regulate your digestive system and keep the bloat at bay while you’re wearing a leo

Bell peppers:
Contains beta-carotene, an anti-inflammatory that can soothe strains and swelling

For a quick snack during a busy summer-intensive day, try cutting the bell peppers and zucchini into strips—they’re great for scooping up hummus.

You can’t go wrong with grilling asparagus—cooking releases the veggie’s antioxidants. Chop them up and throw them over a bed of spinach for a simple salad that’s bursting with nutritional goodness and fresh flavor, not to mention a perfect option for a dance bag lunch that you don’t have to worry about reheating.