Eating green is one of the most important moves you can make. A plant based diet invokes positive changes for your personal health, for our planet, and for our communities.
Unlike the common misconception, a vegan diet is so much more than “rabbit food.” There’s a swap for everything! However, proving that point doesn’t have to lead us away from what are truly the healthiest foods available.
Greens are an incredible addition to virtually anything. If you’re like me, you’ll enjoy them as extra weight in our stir fries, crunchy padding in a panini, or “sneaking” it into your fruit smoothie.
Greens provide an impressive punch of protein for their weight, high fiber, and a hearty helping of vitamins and minerals. To get the best, eat when they’re in season. Here’s a list of our top 3 seasonal greens to brighten your midsummer!
I: Collard Greens
A noted staple in Soul Food, collard greens are a timeless American classic. Collards are a mildly bitter, strongly fibered and large edible leaf. It compares similarly to escarole or bok choy in texture. Like kale, collard greens are stacked with vitamin K, following solid quantities of vitamins A, C, and manganese.
II: Arugula
Add a touch of class to any salad with this leafy staple to Italian cuisine. Often the base for finer salads, arugula is known for its peppery flavor and surprising bite. It comes in all shades of green and purple, and is often known as garden rocket, or rocket to some cultures.
It has been noted as a cultivated green since Rome, and continues to serve the Mediterrenean region as a signature green of the region and inspiration in many fine dishes.
Arugula is high in vitamin K, folate, copper, and magnesium. It’s a phenomenally healthy food for anyone, but its folate stands out as a quality attribute for expectant mothers. They are also a high fiber food.
III: Jalapeno Peppers
Maybe it’s not a “green” in the same sense, but how could we ignore the globally beloved jalapeno pepper. From bar food and margaritas to pizzas and tacos, the jalapeno is among the most well-traveled of all hot peppers. Find it anywhere and brighten your summer!
