It is a known fact that natural, organic, and fresh fruits and veggies from the farm or your garden may well provide the best nutrients to your diet. Summer is the best time of year to gather those items from local farmer markets and groceries or your very own garden.

Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions are common garden varieties that can easily be grown at home. Those of you who garden have already reaped some of the lettuce products because of the early spring and warm weather we have been having over most of the country. But take a look at what else is readily available at your markets. Fresh veggies and fruits bring many good qualities including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which help to prevent cancer and heart disease.

Asparagus is fresh and actually the season is almost over. Steamed, grilled, or even raw with a dip make a great green veggie for summer. Carrots, beets, celery, and corn on the cob are also summer favorites. How about zucchini and the veggies from the squash family? ( I admit that squash is the last thing on my list as a favorite but many enjoy the varieties grilled or baked.)

Strawberries are also ripe and ready at least in the Midwest. They are one of my favorite fruits of the early summer, followed by blueberries, peaches, and apples. Melons are popular with almost every American I know except myself. Yes I know, I have been told there is something seriously wrong with me because I really HATE watermelon. But I do encourage you to introduce these wonderful fruits to your children. They are filled with vitamins and nutrients that enhance your health.

Take full advantage of all the fresh food items available this summer. Enjoy shopping the farmer’s markets for other items to enhance your diet too like herbs, home grown honey from local bees, and new veggies or fruits you have never tried. It will be good for your health and takes little to know cooking, always a plus for summer dinners.